tvOS 18: Apple does not have features ready, will deliver later
Despite the fact that tvOS 18 is not a huge update, Apple did not manage to implement all of the announced functions. You still have to wait for this.
tvOS 18 on an Apple TV device.
(Image: Apple)
In terms of innovations, tvOS 18 is not considered to be a big hit. Nevertheless, Apple was not able to implement all of the announced functions with the release of the first public version. These will only be released gradually – by the end of the year. As Apple writes in a press release from this week, there are a total of three features that the company wants to bring to the multimedia boxes "later this year" via an update. Two relate to hardware support; one is about content.
Projector and HomeKit
It had long been expected that tvOS would also support the 21:9 aspect ratio popular in the world of projectors and projectors. This was also announced for tvOS 18. However, it will not be available on devices before tvOS 18.1 (or at worst tvOS 18.2).
A second missing hardware feature concerns the support for Apple's HomeKit smart home technology available on Apple TV. The company had announced that it would also support robot vacuum cleaners. This will also be part of iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS 15. Apple TV devices will have to wait for a future tvOS 18 update. Then you will also be able to add automations and scenes to the devices.
Snoopy is still hiding in his hut
Also not part of tvOS 18 is a new – and quite nice to look at – screensaver with the "Peanuts" character Snoopy. This and apparently other new waiting animations are also coming "later this year" – without specifying exact times.
Active in tvOS 18, on the other hand, is the new "InSight" function, which "displays information about actors, characters and music from all live-action Apple TV+ movies and series on the screen in real time", according to Apple. There is also a new version of "Improve dialog", which is designed to enhance voices. Subtitles appear automatically. HomeKit support comes with guest access, AirPlay gets 3D audio and FaceTime can use live subtitles (but only in English). The Fitness+ app has been visually redesigned and there are improvements in the use of multimedia control via SharePlay. The update is available for Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K.
(bsc)
