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With tvOS 18, Apple is releasing a new update for Apple TV that includes a number of exciting features and improvements. Although tvOS 18 wasn't talked about much at WWDC 2024, there are many reasons to be excited about this update. Below, you'll learn everything you need to know about the new features in tvOS 18 and how they will improve your TV experience.
Apple TV has established itself as an excellent streaming platform over the years. With each update, Apple brings new features and improvements that optimize the user experience. tvOS 18 is no exception and offers a number of innovations that will be of interest to both existing users and new adopters. Let's take a detailed look at the new features introduced with tvOS 18.
Insight – More information at the touch of a button
One of the most exciting new features in tvOS 18 is the "Insight" feature. This shows you information about actors, characters and even songs that are playing in an Apple TV+ movie or series. With just one tap, you get all the important details about the scene you are currently watching. This feature is comparable to the well-known X-Ray feature from Amazon Prime Video and will significantly enrich your viewing experience.
Improve dialogue – clarity for every word
The "Enhance Dialogue" function has received a major upgrade. The use of machine learning improves speech intelligibility in music, action and background noise. In addition, this function now also works with HDMI speakers, AirPods or Bluetooth speakers - previously it was only available for HomePod. An expanded option for voice isolation ensures even more clarity during video playback.
Smart Subtitles – Automatic Activation
With tvOS 18, subtitles are automatically enabled when you press the mute button or rewind during playback. Additionally, Apple TV detects when a show or movie is in a language other than the system language and automatically displays the appropriate subtitles. This is especially useful for multilingual households and international content.
Support for 21:9 – Cinema experience at home
For the first time, Apple TV with tvOS 18 supports the 21:9 aspect ratio, in addition to the standard 16:9 format. This aspect ratio is ideal for displaying content on projectors and offers a true cinema experience at home.
Redesigned Apple Fitness+ app – more structure and overview
The Apple Fitness+ app has been completely redesigned and divided into personalized sections: For You, Explore, Library, and Search. This new structure makes it easier for you to track your fitness goals and discover new workouts.
Live Captions for FaceTime – Accessibility on a New Level
FaceTime gets a significant improvement with tvOS 18 with the introduction of Live Captions. Everything said during a FaceTime call appears as a live transcript on the TV screen, improving accessibility and making FaceTime usable for even more people.
Special Camera – Your iPhone as an Apple TV Camera
tvOS 17 introduced the ability to use an iPhone as an Apple TV camera in apps like FaceTime. tvOS 18 takes it a step further and lets you set a specific iPhone as a dedicated Apple TV camera that's always ready to use.
New Screensavers – More Variety for Your Screen
Air screensavers are very popular with Apple TV users. With tvOS 18, Apple is adding new styles. You can now choose between portraits, which show a slideshow of photos and a clock, and screensavers with scenes from Apple TV+ shows. These new options provide more variety and a personalized TV experience.
tvOS 18 Beta – A Look into the Future
tvOS 18 is currently available as a developer beta preview and will be released to the public this fall. The update is compatible with Apple TV HD (2015) and newer models, although some features require the latest models. A public beta will be released later this month, so you can try out the new features soon.
tvOS 18: Your Apple TV will be smarter and better
tvOS 18 brings numerous improvements and new features that take the Apple TV experience to a new level. From the new Insight feature to improved dialogue clarity to intelligent subtitles and new screen savers - the update has something for everyone. If you are an Apple TV user, you should look forward to the upcoming update and try out the new features as soon as they are available. Stay tuned for further updates and enjoy your optimized Apple TV experience with tvOS 18. Are you looking for new accessories? Then take a look in our Amazon Storefront - there you will find numerous products from leading providers, also for HomeKit and Co.! (Photo by Unsplash / Li Lin)
