You can stay social in self-isolation with a Watch Party - a synced-up version of an old-school movie night.
This brave new world of self-isolation we are experiencing has put social get-togethers on hold. We can watch all the movies and TV we want in our own homes, so what about a Watch Party?
What’s a Watch Party?
In its simplest form, you and a number of friends, family or sentient meat popsicles, all log into your streaming service of choice at a set time and watch a specific movie or show together. It’s a synced-up version of an old-school "dinner and Netflix" night at home. The more accurately you can sync things up, the better the shared experience, because everyone will see the same moment at the same time.
Why streaming?
Streaming services are more affordable than dedicated pay tv and don’t require an installation fee. Netflix, Stan, Disney + and Amazon Prime each cost only around $10 per month. Any device with an internet connection can stream, including laptops, desktops, televisions or smartphones.
Take it to the next level!
To make your Watch Party truly awesome, there’s a Netflix Party extension* on Chrome which can sync-up a number of Netflix accounts, so you and your friends can watch the same stream. *An "extension" refers to software that fulfils a single, simple purpose. There’s even a chat function on the side of the Netflix Party screen that allows everyone to react to what you’re watching in real time.
To hear and see everyone’s laughter, tears or expletives over your webcams, you can install Scener which is another extension for Chrome.
Note that Netflix Party doesn’t work on smartphones, so you’ll need a laptop or a desktop computer.
Here’s how to host a Netflix Party
• Open the Chrome browser and download the Netflix Party Chrome extension.
• Open Netflix and play a video.
• The Netflix Party icon by your address bar will change from grey to red. Click on it.
• A pop-up window will say “Create a Netflix Party?” You can maintain total control over the playback, or allow others to access the controls.
• Click “Start the party.”
• A pop-up window will appear with a link. Click “Copy URL” and share it with your friends via text or email. If you need this link again, click the Netflix Party icon.
Or to join an existing Netflix Party
• Download the Netflix Party Chrome extension
• Click the link your friend sends you
• Click on the Netflix Party icon
• Enjoy!
By Grant J Everett, Panorama Magazine
