# tvOS 17: Features, Launch Date, and Compatibility
tvOS 17, the operating system from Apple for Apple TV and HomePod, rolled out a notable update following two years of minor adjustments. With new capabilities aimed at improving the user experience, tvOS 17 brought enhancements in video conferencing, Control Center, and more. Here’s an in-depth overview of everything you should know about tvOS 17.
## Main Features of tvOS 17
### 1. **FaceTime and Video Conferencing**
For the first instance, Apple TV became integrated with the iPhone’s camera through the Continuity Camera feature. This allowed users to initiate **FaceTime calls** directly from their Apple TV. Users could commence calls on their iPhone or iPad and smoothly transfer them to the Apple TV. The system also incorporated **Center Stage**, ensuring that all individuals in the room remained visible on screen.
Along with FaceTime, **video conferencing applications** such as Webex and Zoom were made available on tvOS 17, enabling users to join meetings through their Apple TV. Developers could also take advantage of Continuity Camera APIs to embed the iPhone or iPad camera and microphone within their applications.
### 2. **Updated Control Center**
tvOS 17 featured a revamped **Control Center** that simplified the management of settings and devices. The new layout showcased system status, current time, and the active profile. It also streamlined the process of connecting Bluetooth devices and overseeing HomeKit accessories.
### 3. **Rapid Profile Switching**
With **Rapid Profile Switching**, users could effortlessly switch profiles by waking the Apple TV via the remote application on their iPhone. This provided personalized recommendations and quick access to recently viewed shows for each user.
### 4. **Locate My Siri Remote**
While the Siri Remote still did not include the U1 chip, tvOS 17 enabled users to track second-generation or newer Siri Remotes using the **Locate My** app. The iPhone could connect to the remote via Bluetooth, and a proximity sensor helped users find it.
### 5. **Apple Music Sing with Continuity Camera**
Apple Music Sing, a karaoke feature, was integrated with Continuity Camera, allowing users to view themselves on the screen while singing. Fun filters could also be added for a more engaging experience.
### 6. **Dolby Vision 8.1 Support**
tvOS 17 brought **Dolby Vision 8.1** to users, providing a more cinematic visual experience for Apple TV 4K enthusiasts with dynamic metadata across a wider array of movies and TV shows.
### 7. **Apple Fitness+ Improvements**
Apple Fitness+ underwent several updates, including:
– **Custom Plans**: Users could construct tailored workout plans aligned with their schedules, workout length, and preferred trainers.
– **Stacks**: This feature enabled users to choose multiple workouts and meditations to complete consecutively.
– **Audio Focus**: Users had the option to emphasize either the trainer’s voice or the music during workouts.
### 8. **Third-Party VPN Compatibility**
tvOS 17 allowed for **third-party VPN applications**, granting users in enterprise and education settings access to content on private networks. This rendered Apple TV a more adaptable choice for office and conference room usage.
## tvOS 17.1 to 17.6 Updates
### tvOS 17.1
The standout feature of tvOS 17.1 was the introduction of **Enhanced Dialogue** across all HomePods. This functionality separated dialogue from ambient noise, aiding in hearing conversations during films and TV shows.
### tvOS 17.2
tvOS 17.2 launched a **reorganized Apple TV app** that included a sidebar menu for easier navigation. It also incorporated **Dolby Atmos for SharePlay**, **Voice Search in Apps**, and **3D movie support** for the forthcoming Apple Vision Pro.
### tvOS 17.3
This version reinstated **Wishlists and Favorites** within the iTunes Movies and TV Show applications and introduced **Apple Music Collaborative Playlists**, allowing users to see who contributed each track to a playlist.
### tvOS 17.4 to 17.6
These updates mostly concentrated on **bug fixes and security enhancements**, with no major new features rolled out.
## tvOS 17 and HomePod Software
tvOS 17 also powered HomePod devices, delivering several new functionalities:
– **Siri support for AirPlay**: Users could initiate an AirPlay session on their HomePod through voice commands.
– **New call management**: Users could mute or unmute calls on their HomePod.
– **Enhanced Dialogue**: This capability boosted dialogue clarity when paired with Apple TV 4K and two HomePods.
## tvOS 17 Launch Date
tvOS 17 was introduced at WWDC 2023 and made available to the public on **September 18, 2023**. Developer and public beta versions were accessible earlier in July.
## Supported Devices
