Apple Fitness+ Launches Group Workouts with SharePlay

Apple Introduces Group Workouts with SharePlay for Fitness+

Apple has unveiled a new functionality for Fitness+ subscribers, enabling collaborative workouts and meditation sessions with others remotely. This feature is powered by SharePlay and was initially previewed during the company’s September 14th virtual event.

SharePlay Integration for Synchronized Fitness

Fitness+ users can now initiate group workout or meditation sessions with up to 32 participants utilizing FaceTime on their iPhone or iPad. The Fitness+ content will stream in perfect synchronization for all individuals on the call.

Initiating and Accessing Group Sessions

To commence a group session, users simply need to start a FaceTime call and then access the Fitness+ application. A workout can then be selected and begun. SharePlay is also compatible with Apple TV, allowing users to view the workout on a larger display while remaining connected with friends via FaceTime on their iPhone or iPad.

Real-Time Metrics and Activity Ring Notifications

When participating in a group workout through SharePlay, users will be able to view the metrics and progress of their fellow participants towards completing their Activity rings. Notifications will be sent to everyone in the session whenever someone successfully closes their Activity rings during a workout.

Global Expansion of Fitness+

Fitness+ will become available in 15 additional countries starting November 3rd. These include Austria, Brazil, Colombia, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates.

Language Support

The service will initially be offered in English, with subtitles available in Brazilian Portuguese, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish.

Current Availability

Currently, Fitness+ is accessible in the U.S., Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and the U.K. This expansion will bring the total number of supported countries to 21.

UnitedHealthcare Partnership

Starting November 1, 2021, approximately 3 million fully insured UnitedHealthcare members in the U.S. will receive a complimentary one-year subscription to Apple Fitness+ as part of their health plan benefits.

New 'Time to Walk' Episode

Fitness+ is introducing a new installment of its 'Time to Walk' series, an immersive audio walking experience. This episode features actor and disability advocate Marilee Talkington, who shares her experiences with overcoming expectations and empowering others.

Fitness+ Launch and Competitive Landscape

Apple launched Fitness+ on December 14, 2020, and has been actively working to establish itself within the competitive subscription fitness market, including competition with services like Peloton.

Subscription Options

Fitness+ is available as a standalone subscription for $9.99 per month. Alternatively, it is included as part of the Apple One Premier plan, priced at $29.95 per month, which also provides access to Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, Apple News+, and iCloud+ with 2TB of storage.