Apple’s tvOS 18 represents the latest evolution of the Apple TV operating system, delivering a superior viewing experience with advanced features and deeper integration into the Apple ecosystem. Building on the success of previous versions, tvOS 18 introduces innovative enhancements aimed at improving usability, entertainment options, and smart home functionalities for Apple TV users.
Release Date
The tvOS 18 update will officially launch on September 16, 2024, marking its public debut after being previewed earlier this year. The Apple TV 4K and other compatible devices will receive the update automatically or through manual installation.
Key Features in tvOS 18
With tvOS 18, Apple introduces a plethora of new features designed to make Apple TV more intuitive and engaging.
- InSight for Real-time Information: A pivotal addition is InSight, which enhances the viewing experience by providing real-time information about actors, characters, and music in Apple TV+ shows and movies. This feature allows users to easily learn more about what they are watching without interrupting their viewing.
- Enhanced Dialogue with Machine Learning: Apple enhances sound clarity with the Enhance Dialogue feature, utilizing machine learning and computational audio to isolate and boost voices. This results in clearer dialogue, particularly in scenes where background noise or music may detract from speech.
- Smarter Subtitles: The update brings auto-triggering subtitles that appear at key moments. Whether the TV is muted, a scene is being replayed, or dialogue in a different language is encountered, tvOS 18 will automatically display subtitles when required.
- New Screen Savers: Apple TV 4K now features new screen savers, including a collection named Portraits that enhances visual appeal when the TV is idle.
- Home App Enhancements: Updates to the Home app in tvOS 18 provide guest access with iOS 18, allowing temporary control for guests over locks, garage doors, and security systems. Homeowners can also implement time-based access schedules and track guest activity via the Activity History feature. Additionally, Apple is collaborating with utilities like Pacific Gas and Electric to offer users greater insights into their home electricity usage.
- SharePlay & Audio Features: Houseguests can now control music from HomePod and HomePod mini with SharePlay and Apple Music, facilitating collaboration on music selections. Plus, AirPlay with Spatial Audio delivers an immersive sound experience when streaming audio from iPhone or iPad to HomePod or compatible third-party speakers.
- Live Captions for FaceTime: The FaceTime feature with Continuity Camera on Apple TV now supports Live Captions for English in the U.S. and Canada, enabling users to follow conversations directly on their TV screen, enhancing accessibility during video calls.
- Apple Fitness+ Redesign: Apple Fitness+ receives a significant redesign in tvOS 18, featuring personalized workout recommendations, an improved search function, and enhanced award tracking to motivate users throughout their fitness journey.
- 21:9 Support: Later in 2024, tvOS 18 will introduce support for the 21:9 aspect ratio for projectors, allowing users to enjoy a more cinematic viewing experience.
This update brings Apple TV closer to functioning as a comprehensive home entertainment system that does much more than just stream your favorite shows.
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