Got Apple? Set Up Family Share

Remember back when the iPhone first came out and we only owned one or two Apple devices per household? Well, those days are long gone. Chances are that if you own an Apple device you probably have more than one or two at home. With devices like iPhones, iPods, and iPads there has to be an easier way to share apps and photos between devices. I'm here to tell you that such a thing exists; in fact, it has existed for quite some while.

It's called Family Sharing and it allows you to link multiple Apple IDs under one Administrator. Not sure what that means? Picture it this way, you have a computer and in that computer you have multiple users. The main account, usually your account, will have administrator options and can limit what the other sub accounts can and cannot use. Family share is essentially that idea but for iOS devices.  

With Family Share you can approve or deny your kids' requests for in-app purchases, share purchased apps, manage what purchased movies your kids can watch, and share photo albums with each other. If you don't want your kids finding out what movies you've been watching you can also hide content. Normally Apple doesn't allow kids under 13 years of age to have Apple IDs; however, with Family Share this is now possible.

Let's Get Started

Step 1 : Sign in to iCloud

Since Family Sharing links all of your family's Apple IDs, you're going to want to set yours as the Admin. Head to System Preferences > iCloud and make sure you are signed in.

Step 2: Link you Card

Part of being the Family Admin is that your credit card will be the one used for purchases. Select "Set Up Family" on the left hand side of the iCloud preference pane. By continuing, you will be agreeing to pay for your family's purchases. (Don't let this intimidate you as you will ultimately have control over what your family can and cannot purchase.)

Step 3: Set Up What to Share

Although Family Sharing is great, it can't share everything. iCloud Storage is tied to individual accounts meaning that if you're paying x amount for your storage, you'll be the only one to have access to that storage. But Family Sharing still covers most of the essentials: music, movies, iBooks, apps, shared photo albums, and a calendar and a reminders list for the group.

Step 4: Reconfirm your Identity 

Even though we have already signed into our Apple ID, for security reasons Apple requires to reconfirm your identity by signing in to your Apple ID again.

Step 5: Check Family Sharing Settings

Family Sharing, by default, will bill the family's purchases to the card it has on file. In this step you can change payment means to whatever would be more convenient for you. Keep in mind that in order to create an Apple ID for an under-13, a credit card (not debit) is required.

Step 6: Adding Members

Click on the "+" icon in the bottom left corner to add a member. Here you can enter a pre-existing Apple ID for the family member or create a new one altogether. 

Step 7: Security Check

Yet again Apple will ask to verify your identity. This time, however, the CVV code, which is the last three digits on the back of your credit card, is required to proceed. 

Step 8: Invite

When setting up accounts, you can either have the family members enter their information in person or send them an invite which appear on their device. Once accepting the invitation they will be part of Family Sharing.

Step 9: Set a Person's Abilities

After adding someone, you can set additional options for them. Put a check mark next to "Parent/Guardian" to give them the ability to approve children's Ask to Buy requests. You can share your location with them.

Now you're all set! Try it out and let us know what you think.