Apple Unveils tvOS 18.4: Fresh Features, Improvements, and Future Prospects for Apple TV
Apple has rolled out tvOS 18.4, marking a notable enhancement for Apple TV users. While the earlier releases in the tvOS 18 series offered minor upgrades, version 18.4 brings highly anticipated features and lays the groundwork for the upcoming tvOS 19 update. Here’s an in-depth overview of what’s introduced in tvOS 18.4, what has been postponed, and what users can anticipate ahead.
Support for Matter-Compatible Robot Vacuums
One of the standout features in tvOS 18.4 is the support for Matter-compatible robot vacuums. After updating their Apple TV and HomePod to the newest software, users can incorporate these intelligent cleaning devices into the Apple Home ecosystem. This means these robot vacuums can now be accessed through the Home app and included in automation scenes or managed via Siri.
For instance, users can simply say, “Siri, clean the living room,” prompting their Matter-compatible vacuum to start cleaning. This feature is part of Apple’s wider initiative to enhance HomeKit and Matter support, positioning Apple TV as a central hub for smart home management.
Emoji Integration from iOS 18.4
tvOS 18.4 also brings along support for the latest emoji set debuted in iOS 18.4. While emojis aren’t a primary feature of Apple TV, this update ensures uniformity across Apple’s ecosystem. The update adds seven new emoji characters, enhancing expressive communication when utilizing features like shared notes or messaging via AirPlay and other connections.
Broader Aspect Ratio Support for Projectors
Though this feature made its debut in tvOS 18.2, it remains noteworthy as it continues to improve the experience for users in 18.4. Apple TV now accommodates various aspect ratios, including:
– 21:9 (perfect for ultra-wide projectors)
– 2.37:1
– 2.39:1
– 2.40:1
– DCI 4K
– 32:9
These settings, found under the Audio and Video options, are particularly advantageous for home theater aficionados employing projectors or ultra-wide displays, providing a more cinematic viewing experience.
Screensaver Additions: Snoopy and Delays
tvOS 18.2 unveiled new Snoopy-themed screensavers, much to the delight of fans of the beloved Peanuts character. However, Apple had also pledged additional screensaver categories, encompassing TV and Movies, Music, and Soundscapes. These were anticipated to appear in subsequent updates, but recent code reviews indicate they might have been postponed or scrapped altogether.
References to these additional screensavers have been removed from the tvOS codebase, raising concerns about their future. It’s conceivable that Apple is holding these features for tvOS 19, which is expected to be announced at WWDC 2024.
Looking Forward: tvOS 19
With tvOS 18.4 likely marking the last significant update in the tvOS 18 series, Apple is now focusing on tvOS 19. The next-gen software is anticipated to be revealed at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024. While specific details remain limited, users are optimistic that the delayed screensavers and various new features will debut in this forthcoming release.
tvOS 18.4 was launched alongside other Apple software updates, including:
– iOS 18.4
– iPadOS 18.4
– macOS Sequoia 15.4
– watchOS 11.4
– visionOS 2.4
Each of these releases introduces its own array of enhancements, further integrating Apple’s ecosystem.
Conclusion
While tvOS 18.4 may not represent a groundbreaking update, it provides substantial improvements that elevate the Apple TV experience. From smart home connectivity with Matter-compatible vacuums to expanded aspect ratio support and emoji uniformity, Apple is persistently refining its platform. As attention turns to tvOS 19, users can anticipate even more features and upgrades in the near future.
Stay tuned for more updates as we edge closer to WWDC 2024 and the next stage in Apple TV’s development.
