Apple released iOS 15.1 on Monday, the first major software update since September’s release of iOS 15. The latest iOS update comes with the release of macOS Monterey, Apple’s updated operating system for the Mac series. The iOS 15.1 update includes a variety of new features, including SharePlay support and a ProRes recording option for the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
Apple is finally releasing FaceTime’s brand new SharePlay feature with iOS 15.1. The new SharePlay feature is similar to co-watching TV shows or listening to music with pals while on a FaceTime chat using screen sharing. According to Apple, it is “an entirely new way to share experiences with family and friends on FaceTime.” SharePlay is one of the most notable new features in iOS 15.
ProRes video on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max is another previously announced feature coming to iOS. Apple’s ProRes has long been one of the most used codecs for professional post-production video editing. ProRes is available in rates ranging from 4K at 30fps to 8K at 60fps. According to Apple, if you have the base 128GB storage iPhone 13 Pro or 13 Pro Max, your ProRes footage will be limited to 1080p Full HD resolution at 30fps. To enable ProRes, navigate to Settings> Camera> Formats and toggle the Apple ProRes switch to the on position. Unfortunately, not all iPhone 13 models will support ProRes at the same level.
