Apple’s tvOS has gained standalone features and minor changes over the years, which isn’t surprising considering the platform has been limited to streaming and displaying content on the big screen. . But in tvOS 17, Apple started to integrate more useful features.
tvOS 17 release date
Like other software iterations Apple has planned for various hardware platforms, the final version of tvOS 17 will be released this fall. However, the manufacturer has announced that a developer beta has been launched on June 5, while a public beta is expected to follow next month.
Compatibility with tvOS 17
Regarding compatibility, tvOS 17 will continue to support Apple TV HD (2015) and Apple TV 4K Gen 1 from 2017 until Apple TV 4K Gen 2 (2021) and Apple TV 4K Gen 3 (2022).
New tvOS 17 features: FaceTime, Siri remote tracking, and more
Most of the new features introduced in tvOS 17 should benefit the 4K model of Apple TV, although there are also some optimizations that will benefit older Apple TV HD models, such as an improved Siri Remote and an improved interface.
FaceTime for Apple TV
The biggest feature tvOS 17 brings is FaceTime. It uses the camera and microphone of iPhone and iPad and is compatible with all generations of Apple TV 4K. This feature enables you to make FaceTime calls directly from your TV or iPhone or iPad and use your webcam to stream them wirelessly to your Apple TV.
FaceTime on tvOS 17 for Apple TV 4K includes Center Stage, Apple Music Sing, and more. / © Apple
At the same time, the equipment and center stage You can also use this feature to optimize subject framing and automatic tracking. Apple says you can use simple gestures to generate reactions.
Another feature related to FaceTime is the split view. It allows FaceTime participants to make a video call while watching a movie or clip in split screen. Additionally, a karaoke feature for Apple Music Sing or the streaming app has been added.
Third-Party Video Conferencing Applications
In addition to FaceTime, Apple TV will allow the use of third-party video conferencing services for the first time. The first apps confirmed to be uploaded are Cisco’s Zoom and Webex, but more names are expected to be added in the future.
control center
Apple is improving Control Center in tvOS 17. In addition to expanded system status information, the audio and connected home sections are now combined in the upper right corner. Each tab shows an expanded list of connected devices, such as the battery status of paired AirPods in audio and previews of connected cameras and HomePod scenes in your home.
Apple is improving Control Center in tvOS 17. / © Apple
Improved sound and graphics
Apple has improved audio output from Apple TV when connected to the HomePod 2 (2023) smart speaker. According to the makers, dialogue in a show or movie becomes more unique when background noise is isolated. This works best if multiple sound effects are playing while the dialogue is taking place between the characters.
Meanwhile, Apple is deploying the Dolby Vision 8.1 format, which provides dynamic and immersive images. Apple says the format will work with various TV shows and movies at launch.
Locate a Lost Siri Remote Using Find My iPhone
A lost Siri Remote can now be located using the iPhone. You can do this from the device’s Control Center, which displays a graphical guide where the size of the circle depends on the distance of the remote. The Find My for Siri remote supports 2nd generation and later models.
Apple added the Find My feature in tvOS 17, which can locate a lost Siri Remote through the iPhone. / © kwgeek
Apple Fitness+ and Audio Focus
For Apple Fitness+ subscribers, Guided Workouts and Meditations offer recommendations by duration, date and type before being sent to Apple TV. What’s more, Audio Focus will let you decide and prioritize whether to turn up your music volume or your coaching voice.
Other changes in tvOS 17
In addition to notable new features, tvOS 17 also features an updated screensaver, which relies on categorized photos and albums, and new collections. What’s more, Apple allows the use of third-party VPNs on Apple TV.
Do you have an Apple TV 4K at home? What’s the most important new feature for you?
On the same topic, learn how to choose the best smart TV for your connected home. Read also our article on Xiaomi TV Master 86: this giant smart TV will please you.