iOS 16 & Co make it possible for the first time to set up an iCloud media library that up to six people can use together for photos and videos.
Apple has started the beta test iCloud Shared Photo Library. The function can now be activated in the third beta of iOS and iPadOS 16 as well as macOS 13, as reported by developers with access to the pre-release version. This makes it possible for the first time to set up an iCloud library that up to six people can access with their own Apple IDs. The shared photo library is integrated into Apple’s Photos app in parallel with your own private photo library.
An extra photo library for multiple users
For the required iCloud storage space, the creator of the shared photo library must come up. This also decides which content is to be seen by everyone at the start – such as photos of certain people or all recordings from a selected date. It is then possible to grant access to five other people, which works independently of Apple’s family release.
Everyone can access the shared photo library in the same way. Edits and other changes made by one user are automatically synced to other participants’ devices. There are several ways to add photos and videos to the shared photo library. This includes, for example, a switch in Apple’s camera app that allows all new recordings to be automatically saved in the shared photo library. Apple also uses Bluetooth: If the iPhone notices that the devices of the other participants are nearby, photos can be shared automatically.
iCloud storage space in the subscription
Apple is included in this central problem of photo sharing services, which usually only offer shared albums as a detour for shared use. There are usually various limitations, such as the photos in the shared iCloud albums are not in full resolution and with the complete editing history. In addition, the group binds customers more extensively to its platform and strengthens the service business: only 5 GB of iCloud storage is free. iCloud Photo Library sharing should be available to the general public with the release of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS 13 Ventura this fall. A public beta of the operating systems is expected in July.
