Apple has released tvOS 18, the latest software update for Apple TV, introducing a range of new features and improvements for users of the Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD. This update follows months of beta testing and brings several enhancements, particularly for those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. From new interactive features to upgraded audio capabilities, tvOS 18 aims to enhance the overall user experience on the platform.
Here’s an overview of the key features and how to install the update.
InSight for Apple TV+: One of the standout additions in tvOS 18 is the new InSight feature. This tool offers viewers real-time information about actors, characters, and music from Apple TV+ content, directly on their screen.
The functionality is similar to Amazon Prime Video’s X-Ray feature, allowing users to access detailed information about the cast and the soundtracks of the shows or movies they are watching. For example, users can identify songs playing in scenes and add them directly to their Apple Music playlists. However, this feature is exclusive to Apple Original content.
Enhanced Audio Capabilities: Another significant improvement in tvOS 18 is the updated Enhance Dialogue feature. Leveraging machine learning and computational audio, this feature aims to deliver clearer vocal audio by emphasizing speech over background noise, such as music and action sequences.
Users can select from options like 'Enhance', 'Boost', or 'Isolate' dialogue based on their preferences. This function supports various audio setups, including TV speakers, HDMI-connected sound systems, Bluetooth devices, and Apple’s HomePod.
Additionally, the update enhances spatial audio capabilities with AirPlay, allowing for wireless streaming of spatial audio from iPhones and iPads to Apple TV 4K, HomePod, and other compatible audio devices. This update also introduces support for Personalised Spatial Audio for AirPods users, adding an extra layer of immersive sound.
Automatic Subtitles: With tvOS 18, subtitles have become more responsive and intuitive. Subtitles now automatically appear at useful moments, such as when content is muted, when users skip back, or when the language of the media doesn’t match the user’s device settings. This feature improves accessibility and ensures that viewers can follow along without missing key dialogue.
New Screen Savers and User Interface Tweaks: The update introduces new Portrait screensavers, allowing users to display photos of people, pets, nature, or cities from their photo libraries. This is part of Apple's broader effort to personalize the Apple TV experience. Additionally, tvOS 18 offers a minor tweak to the user interface, allowing users to adjust the home screen layout to display four apps per row instead of five.
Live Captions for FaceTime: Expanding the integration of Apple’s Continuity Camera, tvOS 18 now supports Live Captions for FaceTime calls. This feature, currently available in English for U.S. and Canada users, allows participants to read what others are saying on their TV screen, enhancing accessibility for those who are hard of hearing or in noisy environments.
Apple Fitness+ Improvements: The Apple Fitness+ app has also been redesigned in tvOS 18, featuring a more personalized interface. The update includes a new "For You" section with customized workout recommendations, a more refined search tool, and enhanced awards to keep users motivated in their fitness routines.
Expanded HomeKit Integration: Apple continues to position the Apple TV as a central hub for managing HomeKit home automation features. New options include guest access for HomeKit devices, such as smart locks and garage doors, allowing homeowners to control who can access their smart home devices. The update also includes scheduling options for time-based access and activity history tracking for guests.
Despite the range of new features, a few anticipated updates did not make it into the initial release of tvOS 18. These include 21:9 aspect ratio support for home cinema projectors, new screen savers, and robot vacuum compatibility with the Home app. Apple has indicated that these features may be added in future updates within the next year.
Installing tvOS 18 is straightforward. For users with automatic updates enabled, the software will update automatically over the coming days. Those eager to try the new features can manually update by following these steps:
For HomePod users, updates can be installed via the Home app on an iPhone or iPad by accessing 'Home Settings' and then 'Software Update'.
