Apple is expanding its SharePlay music control feature to include HomePod speakers and the Apple TV with the upcoming iOS 17.4 and tvOS 17.4 updates. This new feature will allow family and friends to control the music playing on your HomePod or Apple TV with permission, without needing an Apple Music subscription.

Previously available for CarPlay, SharePlay music control lets the primary user approve or deny requests to control music playback. To request access, users can scan a QR code displayed in the Music app on an iPhone or the Apple TV, granting remote access to music controls.

The expansion of this feature to the Apple TV and HomePod is expected to be particularly useful for house parties, allowing multiple users to take turns as the DJ. The beta versions of iOS 17.4, tvOS 17.4, and HomePod software version 17.4 have been released to developers for testing, with the official release expected in March.

This new development has been met with positive feedback from users, with many expressing excitement about the convenience of allowing friends with different music platforms to easily contribute to playlists. The expansion of SharePlay music control is set to enhance the overall user experience for Apple Music and Apple TV users.