Watching movies or TV shows together has always been a beloved social activity. But with friends and family often living far apart or with public health concerns limiting gatherings, people have turned to creative online options. One such solution that has gained widespread popularity is Netflix Party, now rebranded as Teleparty. This handy browser extension allows users to sync their streaming and chat together in real time, making it feel like they’re watching in the same room.
What is Teleparty?
Teleparty is a free browser extension originally created as Netflix Party and now supports multiple platforms including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video. The extension allows a group of people to watch the same content simultaneously with a shared video player and even a built-in group chat.
Teleparty is currently only available on Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and browsers that support Chrome extensions such as Brave and Opera. Everyone in the party needs to have access to the streaming service being used—so if you’re watching on Netflix, each participant must have their own account or profile.
How to Set Up and Use Teleparty
Setting up Teleparty is a simple process, and within minutes, you’ll be watching your favorite shows with friends and family.
1. Install the Teleparty Extension
- Visit the official Teleparty website.
- Click on the button that says Add to Chrome or Get Teleparty for Edge.
- Confirm the installation by clicking Add Extension in the pop-up window.
After installation, you’ll see the Teleparty icon, which looks like a red “TP” logo, in your browser’s toolbar.
2. Start a Netflix (or Other Service) Stream
Next, visit your desired streaming site—Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, etc.—and start playing the show or movie you want to watch.
Once the video starts playing, pause it, then click on the red TP icon in your browser. A window will pop up giving you the option to Start the party.
Make sure to check the option marked “Only I have control” if you want to be the one pausing, playing, or skipping. If you leave this unchecked, others in the party can also control playback.
3. Share the Teleparty Link
- Once you click Start the Party, a unique party URL will be generated.
- Copy and share this link with your friends using any messaging service like WhatsApp, Messenger, or email.
- Participants just need to click on the link, install the Teleparty extension, and they’ll automatically join the stream.
4. Enjoy the Movie with Chat
After joining, everyone can see a chat box on the right side of the screen. That’s where you can type in your real-time reactions, jokes, or commentary—just like you would on the couch next to each other.
Tips for a Better Teleparty Experience
- Use Headphones: To avoid audio feedback and echo, it’s recommended that everyone uses headphones.
- Stable Internet: Make sure your connection is stable to minimize buffering or sync issues.
- Discuss Beforehand: Talk with your friends about what you’ll be watching and when to start so that everyone is ready and excited.
- Use Emojis and Reactions: The chat provides a fun way to react—don’t be shy to use emojis or GIFs to keep the vibe fun and spontaneous.
Teleparty vs Other Watch Party Tools
Teleparty is not the only tool out there for shared viewing experiences. Platforms like Amazon Prime Video Watch Party and Disney+ GroupWatch also offer native solutions. However, Teleparty stands out due to its support for multiple platforms and its easy-to-use group chat interface.
Pros of Teleparty:
- Supports multiple streaming services (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, etc.)
- Easy to install and use
- Integrated real-time chat
- Free of charge
Cons of Teleparty:
- Only works on supported browsers (no mobile support)
- All participants need their own subscriptions
- No built-in voice or video chat
Teleparty Etiquette
Even though you’re not physically in the same room, being polite and considerate is still important. Here are some basic etiquette tips:
- Be on time: Just like a real party, try to be punctual so others aren’t waiting.
- Respect playback control: If you’re not the host, avoid hitting pause unless it’s urgent.
- Keep the chat friendly: Humor and discussion are welcome, but avoid spoilers or offensive content.
Expanding the Experience
Want to take things up a notch? Try adding a themed snack night or dress code to your Teleparty. If you’re watching a horror movie, get everyone to wear spooky costumes. Watching a superhero movie? Challenge your friends to show up in themed gear. You can also use video calling apps like Zoom or Discord simultaneously, placing the call on a second device for full interaction.
Teleparty is constantly evolving, and the developers are always working on new features. Recently, they’ve added support for even more streaming services with plans for mobile compatibility in future updates.
Conclusion
Whether you’re separated by cities, lockdowns, or different schedules, Teleparty provides an excellent way to stay connected through shared entertainment. With just a few clicks, you can laugh, cry, and binge-watch your favorite series with your best friends—no matter where they are in the world.
FAQ: Teleparty
- Q: Do all participants need a Netflix account to use Teleparty?
A: Yes, everyone needs to have their own subscription to the streaming service being used. - Q: Can I use Teleparty on my phone?
A: Currently, Teleparty only works on desktop computers using Chrome-based browsers. Mobile support is not available yet. - Q: Does Teleparty support voice or video chat?
A: No, there’s only a text chat feature. However, you can use another app like Zoom or Discord for voice or video conversations. - Q: Can I use Teleparty if I have different streaming services than my friends?
A: Everyone needs to watch using the same streaming service and have access to the same content, or the party won’t sync properly. - Q: Is Teleparty free to use?
A: Yes, the extension is completely free to download and use.
So gather your popcorn, set up Teleparty, and start a virtual movie night that your friends won’t forget!