What’s New in tvOS 18? Apple Unveils the Latest Updates
The newest Apple TV operating system comes with some key updates that will make the viewing experience even better.
If you use an Apple TV device as your primary streaming player, you’re about to notice some new features. On Monday, Apple announced the release of tvOS 18, the latest operating system for its Apple TV streaming players. There are a number of new things included in the release of tvOS 18, and we’ll break down the most important new features to be aware of below.
Key Details:
- Apple’s tvOS 18 introduces the company’s new InSight feature, essentially a clone of Amazon’s X-Ray.
- Automatic subtitles and an upgrade to the Enhanced Dialogue function are also coming.
- tvOS 18 has been in public beta testing since July.
One of the biggest new features in tvOS 18 is InSight, which viewers of Amazon’s streaming service Prime Video will find very familiar. Using InSight overlays the show’s metadata onto your stream, allowing viewers to look at information about the cast, and browse links to where they can buy music from the title via Apple Music.
Another important update with tvOS 18 is new, automatic subtitles which will appear in key moments when the dialogue changes languages or when the user mutes their audio. The Enhance Dialogue feature will make use of machine learning and computational audio to deliver greater vocal clarity than ever before.
New screensavers, like Portraits, will also roll out to Apple TV 4K devices in the latest update.
Other enhancements with the new operating system include:
-
Houseguests now have the ability to share control of music playing from HomePod and HomePod mini using SharePlay and Apple Music.
-
AirPlay is incorporating Spatial Audio so listeners can get an immersive experience when streaming audio from iPhone and iPad to HomePod and compatible third-party audio equipment.
-
Live Captions for English in the U.S. and Canada come to FaceTime with Continuity Camera in tvOS 18, so users can read what their conversation partners are saying on a FaceTime call using their TV screens.
-
Apple Fitness+ has an entirely new design in tvOS 18, with personalized recommendations for workouts and meditations, powerful Search, and enhanced Awards to help users stay motivated.
In addition, tvOS 18 will roll out support for 21:9 screen resolution later this year. This will allow viewers to hook their Apple TV up to a projector, turning the premiere of a new show or movie into an upgraded, cinematic experience that few other devices offer.
Finally, Apple’s new tvOS version has some important upgrades for the Home app, including guest access using iOS 18, giving guests better control of locks, doors, and security, as well as an Active History for guests.
The new features and upgrades that go along with tvOS 18 were first announced in June. Public beta testing for tvOS 18 started in July. If your Apple TV has not downloaded tvOS 18 automatically, navigate to System -> Software Updates and select Update Software in order to get the new operating system on your device.
Apple TV
Apple TV is a streaming device that can be used to watch Live TV Streaming Services and On Demand Streaming Services.
Limited Warranty
Your Apple TV probably isn’t covered against mishaps and malfunctions. We’ve partnered with 5Devices to give The Streamable readers a protection plan for any internet-connected device, including your Apple TV, iPhone, etc starting at $2.67 per device per month. And the good news is that it covers devices you already use (ie. no need for proof of new purchase).