Before iOS 8 was unveiled to the public, users were required to purchase content for every device. Now that the software has been updated, users can simply set up the new Family Sharing feature so they can share the same apps, iBooks, music, and more with other people in his household.
While the previous process required just one iTunes Store account to download the app and install it on other devices with the same account, the new Family Sharing feature does so much more than this. By enabling Family Sharing, Apple has allowed users with different iCloud accounts to have a single payment method to purchase apps, music, and iBook content. Any member of the household can also purchase the content they like so they can share with the entire family.
Apart from making this an easier process, Family Sharing has allowed parents to have more control over the spending habits of their children with iTunes Store accounts. Through this added feature, users can designate a secondary request permission that the primary account holder can either approve or deny.
If you are wondering how you can start using Family Sharing on your devices, all you need to do is set it up on your iOS device. You can follow this process:
- Go to Settings> iCloud Menu
- Under your name and image, you will find a new family section.
- Tap family section so you can manage your family members.
The family members that are have already been added onto the account will be found on this area. If you wish to add another shared account with an adult, you simply have to tap on ‘Add Family Member.’
The next step will require you to add the iCloud email address of that new person. Once you tap on the ‘next’ button, an invitation will be sent to his email. He will have to accept the invite so that he can be added onto the main account.
If you wish to add a child’s account onto your Family Sharing screen, you simply need to tap on the text below that reads: ‘Create an Apple ID for a child.’
As soon as your child’s account has been added, you can allow him to download games to his device by enabling the ‘Ask to Buy’ feature. This will prompt you a request whenever your child attempts to buy a new app or even with in-app purchases.
When you’re creating your child’s Apple ID, you will need to have a credit card associated with your current iTunes and App Store account. If you are using debit card, your iOS device will ask you to change this.
As soon as new family members have been added to the main account, the shared purchases will be available on the App and iTunes Stores. Using your iOS device, you simply need to go to the App Store and tap on Updates. Look for the Purchased section situated on top. This will allow you to go through the apps and music that every family member on the account has already purchased.
The good thing about Family Sharing feature is that it can also be managed using a Mac device, as long as it is operating on OS X Yosemite and has the associate iCloud account logged in. To manage Family Sharing using a Mac, follow these steps:
- Open System Preferences> iCloud
- Tap on Manage Family
You can easily remove or add new members with the + and – buttons available below. Again, you will need to have your family member’s email address to add him to the main account. As soon as the credit or debit card has been verified, the newly added member will be available on the Family Sharing feature.
Pretty neat feature huh? What do you think about this new feature on iOS 8?
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