In June, Apple unveiled their latest operating system for Apple TV devices called tvOS 15. The main features coming to the update are SharePlay, which allow you to stream with your friends, Spatial Audio, and better personalization.
SharePlay will keep a video stream in-sync so you watch with your friends. In addition of being able to watch on your phone, you can AirPlay while still streaming your FaceTime camera on your phone. Those on FaceTime can “Play”, “Pause”, “Fast-Forward”, “Rewind”, and change what you’re watching.
Apple has said that top streaming apps including Apple TV+, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, ESPN+, Paramount+, Pluto TV, NBA App, Twitch STARZ, BET+, TV Everywhere Apps from ViacomCBS (MTV, Paramount Network, & Comedy Comedy Central) and Chinese streaming service Youku and TikTok will offer the feature. While it may not be available at the launch of tvOS 15, it is expected to launch later this year.
They are also adding AirPlay support to the Mac as part of MacOS Monterey. You can AirPlay from your iPhone or iPad and use your Mac display as a larger screen.
Also coming to tvOS 15 is support for Spatial Audio with AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. This is a three-dimensional sound experience on your headphones without the need of a surround sound system. On the audio side, you will also be able to use HomePod mini as a default speaker for your Apple TV.
The company will also adding new ways to share what you’re watching social. Apple TV will bring in shows and movies you’ve shared on Messages into the TV App into a new section called “Shared With You.” They also have a new section called “For All of You”, which finds content that is great for everyone who uses your Apple TV.
Last year, in tvOS 14 the company added features like a picture-in-picture, YouTube in 4K, and better HomeKit control. tvOS 15 will be available for Developers starting today, as a public beta next month, and to all Apple TV users in the Fall.