Update (June 2025)
Netflix no longer supports SharePlay on FaceTime. This article has been revised to reflect the current status.
Can You Screen Share Netflix on FaceTime?
No, not successfully. Netflix does not allow screen sharing on FaceTime, nor does it support Apple’s SharePlay feature.
If you try to share your screen while watching Netflix during a FaceTime call, the other person will only see a black screen. This isn’t a bug. It’s a content protection measure enforced by Netflix and most other streaming platforms to prevent unauthorized sharing or recording.
Can You Use SharePlay for Netflix?
No. Netflix is not compatible with SharePlay. Despite SharePlay being supported by other streaming platforms like Apple TV+, Disney+, and HBO Max, Netflix has opted out of supporting co-watching through Apple’s built-in system.
That means you can’t start a FaceTime call and use SharePlay to sync Netflix playback across devices. If you’ve seen prompts or tutorials suggesting otherwise, they’re either outdated or referencing other apps that do support SharePlay.
Why Netflix Blocks Screen Sharing (and SharePlay)
Netflix uses digital rights management (DRM) technology that prevents screen recording or broadcasting. This applies across platforms—including Zoom, Google Meet, and FaceTime screen sharing.
Apple's SharePlay is designed to work only with apps that opt in, and Netflix hasn’t joined that list. The result: neither traditional screen sharing nor SharePlay can be used to co-watch Netflix on FaceTime.
What Are Your Alternatives?
While you can’t use SharePlay or screen sharing to watch Netflix together over FaceTime, you still have a few options:
- Use a dedicated watch party app like Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party), which syncs playback through your browser and includes chat features
- Start a FaceTime call and count down manually, then press play at the same time. Clunky, but doable
- Switch to SharePlay-supported services like Apple TV+, Hulu, or Disney+ if you want a seamless FaceTime watch party experience
FaceTime Screen Sharing Still Works, Just Not for Netflix
You can still use FaceTime screen sharing to show:
- Your photos and videos
- Websites or documents
- Apps that don’t block screen recording
Just avoid any streaming platform with DRM (Netflix, Prime Video, etc.). And if you're traveling, make sure you have a reliable connection.
FaceTime Screen Sharing While Abroad: Stay Smooth With Eskimo eSIM
Streaming, even if not through SharePlay, requires solid bandwidth. If you're traveling, weak hotel Wi-Fi can derail a video call or cause syncing issues in a watch party.
Here’s how Eskimo eSIM helps:
- Instant connectivity in 80+ countries
- Unthrottled speeds, perfect for FaceTime and HD video
- Personal hotspot support for iPads and Macs
- Start your plan only when you connect
- 2-year data validity with rollover
👉 Get 500MB of global data free and FaceTime anywhere without worrying about roaming charges.
FAQs
Can I watch Netflix on FaceTime with SharePlay?
No. Netflix does not support SharePlay.
Can I screen share Netflix on FaceTime?
No. Attempting to share your screen while watching Netflix will result in a black screen due to DRM restrictions.
Does this apply to all devices?
Yes. Whether you're on iPhone, iPad, or Mac, Netflix content is blocked from screen sharing and SharePlay.
What apps support SharePlay?
Apple TV, Disney+, Hulu, Paramount+, and HBO Max all support SharePlay for co-watching during FaceTime.
Can I still use FaceTime for a watch party?
Yes, but not with Netflix. You can video call and sync playback manually or switch to SharePlay-compatible apps.
