Apple today released tvOS 18, the newest version of the tvOS operating system for the Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD set top boxes.
The tvOS 18 update can be downloaded via the Settings app on the Apple TV by going to “System” -> “Software Update.” If you have automatic software updates turned on your Apple TV will be upgraded to tvOS 18 automatically.
tvOS 18 brings a new InSight feature to the TV app, providing real-time information about actors, music, and more in Apple TV+ shows and music, much like the X-Ray feature in Amazon Prime Video. Viewers can also see InSight information on their iPhone when using it as an Apple TV remote.
Enhance Dialogue gets smarter with tvOS 18, leveraging machine learning and computational audio to deliver greater vocal clarity over music, action, and background noise on Apple TV 4K. In addition to HomePod speakers, users can now enjoy Enhance Dialogue when listening through built-in TV or HDMI-connected speakers, AirPods, and other Bluetooth-connected devices, and when playing supported content on iPhones and iPads.
Subtitles will now show up automatically when relevant, such as when the TV’s volume is muted, a show or movie is rewound, or when the language of a show doesn’t match the device language.
- Houseguests can share control of music playing from HomePod and HomePod mini using SharePlay and Apple Music.
- AirPlay adds Spatial Audio so users 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 others are saying on a FaceTime call on the biggest screen in the home.
- 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.
- Available later this year, tvOS 18 brings 21:9 support for playing movies and shows on projectors, and introduces new screen savers, like Snoopy. Additionally, robot vacuum cleaners will be compatible with the Home app and can participate in automations and scenes.
