The ESPN app’s latest update allows fans in the U.S. to watch sports and live content on the network with their friends while on FaceTime via SharePlay. The update will give Apple users a way to share experiences from the biggest moments, games, and events across the ESPN app via their iPad, or iPhone, with future plans to update the app with SharePlay support on Apple TV.
“By adding SharePlay support to the ESPN app, we are bringing a live sports co-viewing experience to fans for the first time,” said Brian Marshall, Vice President of Sports Products & Strategy, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution. “We are thrilled to provide a unique opportunity for friends and family to come together to root for some of their favorite teams and players, no matter the distance between them.”
Initially, SharePlay will be available for iPhone and iPad users, with Apple TV support launching in an upcoming app update. Users must be logged into the ESPN app via TV Everywhere credentials or be an ESPN+ subscriber for ESPN+ exclusive content. To use the feature, devices must be iOS 15.1 or iPadOS 15.1 or later. Content availability is subject to blackout restrictions
SharePlay sessions allow up to 32 people to enjoy the experience on a FaceTime call. Once the ESPN app is supported on Apple TV, viewers who want to watch ESPN networks on TV Everywhere authenticated live streams, original content, or ESPN+ live streams will be able to enjoy all of the synchronized content on Apple TV while being able to share moments with those close to them over FaceTime via their iPhone or iPad.