Improvements to the Household Interface Boost Amusement and Enhance Ease.
The latest software updates for Apple Home products aim to enhance the entertainment experience and make everyday life more convenient. The introduction of tvOS 18 brings new cinematic features like InSight, Enhance Dialogue, and subtitles, taking home entertainment to a new level. With Apple Fitness+, Apple Music, and FaceTime enhancements, users can enjoy a seamless and improved experience on their largest screens. The iOS 18 update for the Home app introduces guest access and hands-free unlock with home keys, providing effortless and secure access to the home. These updates are currently available as developer betas and will be released as free software updates in the fall.
Enhanced Entertainment with tvOS 18
Apple TV app introduces InSight this season, offering real-time information about actors, characters, and music from Apple TV+ shows and movies on screen. Users can easily access actor backgrounds, filmography, and add songs to Apple Music playlists. Enhance Dialogue feature uses machine learning to enhance vocal clarity in different audio elements on Apple TV 4K. Subtitles now appear at the right moments for added convenience, along with support for 21:9 aspect ratio and new screensavers like Portraits and Snoopy animations.
Enhanced Apple Services and Experiences
SharePlay and Apple Music allow control of music from HomePod and HomePod mini, with an easy setup process for sharing music and controlling playback during SharePlay sessions. FaceTime improvements include Live Captions for English in the U.S. and Canada on the biggest screen in the home, offering accessibility enhancements. Apple Fitness+ redesign in tvOS 18 features personalized spaces, search functions, and enhanced awards to keep users motivated and consistent with their fitness routine.
Streamlined Home Entry and Energy Management
iOS 18 introduces guest access in the Home app, providing secure ways to grant guests control over locks, garage doors, and security systems. Hands-free unlock with home keys enables users to open supported entry locks effortlessly when near the door. The app also offers insights into home electricity usage in partnership with select utilities, starting with Pacific Gas & Electric Company in California.
Exciting Features Coming to the Home App and Apple TV
- Integration of robot vacuum cleaners in the Home app, enabling them to be part of automations and activated by voice commands via Siri.
- AirPlay now supports Spatial Audio, providing an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos when streaming audio from iPhone and iPad to HomePod and compatible third-party audio devices.
Availability: Developer betas for tvOS 18, iOS 18, and HomePod software version 18 are currently accessible for Apple Developer Program members, with public betas expected next month. Free software updates will be rolled out to users in the fall. For more details, visit the Apple website.
About Apple: Apple continues to innovate with its wide range of products and software platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS. With a focus on user experience and breakthrough services, Apple remains a leader in personal technology, offering products that empower individuals worldwide.
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Emily Ewing
Apple
Apple Media Helpline
