Apple’s Family Sharing offers subscribers the ability to share subscriptions and apps, cloud storage, etc (up to six people). The need to use this feature in 2024 when subscription costs will be rising for Apple’s premium services to save cost.
What is Family Sharing?
On any Mac, iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, family members can use Family Sharing to share apps, purchases from the iTunes Store, enjoyment of iCloud storage, Apple Music, Apple TV+, and more, all while keeping their own accounts private. A family organizer takes care of the group and provides everyone with access to shared content while preserving each person’s privacy using their own Apple ID.
Family Sharing saves you money.
Apple’s Family Sharing can significantly reduce the cost of subscriptions and paid apps:
- Apple Music Family Plan: A savings of over €30 per month on a family plan where five members would make the total cost €16.99 instead of €10.99 a month for each member.
- Apple One Bundle: Buy Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade and iCloud+ in one bundle, saving together as a family.
- Shared Apps and Purchases: You can buy an app only one time; it’s then available to everyone in the group, for free.
How to set up family sharing on your Apple Device
Family Sharing is easy to set up. Here’s how:
On iPhone or iPad: In Settings > [Your Name]; go to family sharing, and choose Set up family sharing.
You follow the prompts to add in family members. Each invited member will get an invite and, when they accept an invite, they get to see shared content and subscriptions.
Sharing iCloud Storage
Our storage needs are on the rise with high resolution photos with 4K videos. With Family Sharing, you can share Apple iCloud+ plans—200GB or 2TB—with other family members for cost saving and easier storage management.
Family Sharing Settings and Permissions management
Apple’s Family Sharing offers helpful features for family management:
- Screen Time and Restrictions: Restrict downloads for younger members and get a notification every time a new download has been made.
- Ask to Buy: The organizer allows or disallows purchases for minor members so that accounts are secure and surprise charges are avoided.
Expanded Services in 2024
Apple has incorporated even more services through its Family Sharing this year, from services like Fitness Plus and Apple News Plus and support for some select not just their own third-party apps that support the subscription sharing. Family Sharing makes it easier to get premium services without premium costs.
Family Sharing is a great way to make the most of Apple’s services, stay connected, and save on your family’s tech budget all year long.