SharePlay is a relatively new way to share movies and more on a video call, and the iPhone’s FaceTime feature can now also be used when shopping for a home or apartment. Being able to browse listings and share the discovery instantly with friends and loved ones is a very nice option and might be the most practical use of this technology to date.
Zillow is an iPhone and iPad app that provides a convenient way to browse online real estate and rental listings. Founded in 2006, the service is among the most popular in the United States. After starting life as a website that worked in any web browser, an iPhone and Android app became available by 2010, making it easy to check listings from anywhere and even when on the road. The website is still available, but with most people carrying a smartphone, the app is a more convenient way to view messages and receive notifications.
Zillow has expanded its accessibility even further by adding support for SharePlay. All that is needed is an iPhone or iPad and the Zillow app to browse listings with friends and family. Like other SharePlay compatible apps, dozens of people can be invited to join in on the video call and see the same listings, locations, and photos as everyone else. All while chatting about the details and seeing one another. Connecting remotely is more important than ever with the pandemic restricting time spent physically together.
How SharePlay Works
SharePlay is available with iOS 15.1 and iPadOS 15.1 or newer, and accessible when making a FaceTime call on an iPhone or iPad. SharePlay is also available through macOS Monterey and tvOS 15, so it also works on the MacBook, Mac desktops, and Apple TV. However, it might not support every app and, in some cases, a subscription is required to view content. SharePlay isn’t available for Android or Windows, so every member needs to have an Apple device.
While it’s possible to make a phone call or even video chat while multiple people browse or watch a movie, SharePlay makes it possible to synchronize the video or app so everyone sees the same thing. With Zillow, browsing listings with friends and family is more convenient than messaging links. Part of the fun of looking for a home or apartment is including others so Zillow’s support is a bit of a breakthrough for online shopping with an iPad or iPhone, and one of the most practical and useful SharePlay integrations so far.
