Having a movie night with friends doesn’t have to mean being in the same room anymore. Thanks to FaceTime SharePlay, you can watch Netflix together while chatting, laughing, and reacting to all those dramatic moments – even when you’re miles apart.
Getting Started with Netflix SharePlay
First things first – make sure everyone’s using an iPhone or iPad running iOS 15.1 or later. This is crucial since SharePlay is a relatively new feature. You’ll also need an active Netflix subscription and the Netflix app installed on your device.
Setting Up Your Virtual Movie Night
Start by initiating a FaceTime call with your friend(s). Once connected, open the Netflix app without ending the call. Here’s where things get a bit tricky – Netflix doesn’t officially support SharePlay yet. But don’t worry, there’s a workaround that many users have found successful.
The Screen Share Method
During your FaceTime call, tap the screen share button (it looks like a rectangle with a person in front). Select “Share My Screen” and navigate to Netflix. While this method means everyone needs their own Netflix account to watch along, it maintains the social experience we’re after.
Making the Experience Better
Here are some pro tips I’ve learned from countless virtual movie nights:
– Use headphones to prevent audio feedback
– Find a stable internet connection for both FaceTime and streaming
– Coordinate snack breaks (yes, this matters!)
– Have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’re experiencing lag or poor quality, try:
– Closing unnecessary apps running in the background
– Reducing screen brightness to save bandwidth
– Connecting to 5GHz Wi-Fi if available
– Restarting both FaceTime and Netflix if things get glitchy
Alternative Watch Party Options
While we’re focusing on FaceTime, there are other great options like Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) or Discord’s screen sharing feature. These might work better depending on your setup and who you’re watching with.
Remember, the goal is to create that shared viewing experience, even when we can’t be together physically. Whether you’re catching up on the latest season of your favorite show or hosting a virtual movie marathon, these methods help maintain those important social connections we all need.
Just keep in mind that screen sharing quality might vary depending on your internet connection, and it’s worth testing everything before your planned movie night. That way, you can focus on enjoying the show rather than troubleshooting technical issues when the moment arrives.
