Apple’s tvOS 17 introduces a new era of home entertainment, offering a dynamic range of features designed to transform the Apple TV experience. The headline feature of tvOS 17 is the integration of FaceTime into Apple TV. This allows users to make video calls directly from the comfort of their living rooms. It utilizes Continuity Camera on iPhones and iPads as wireless webcams, ideal for group calls and business meetings. Moreover, developers can use Continuity Camera APIs to bring entertainment apps to the television screen.
tvOS 17 revamps the Control Center on the Home Screen, providing quick access to crucial information and settings for users. It displays real-time system status, time, and activity profiles and expands its options based on user interactions. From adjusting AirPods settings to managing home cameras and user profiles, the Control Center puts control at users’ fingertips.
Losing the Siri Remote is a common occurrence for many Apple TV users. With tvOS 17, Apple addresses this issue by enabling users to launch the Apple TV Remote from their iPhones. As users approach their misplaced Siri Remote, an on-screen circle grows, simplifying locating the device.
Another enhancement in tvOS 17 includes using personal or Shared Library photos as screensavers, a feature that aligns Apple TV with competitors like Roku and Fire TV. Audio quality gets boosted with improved dialogue separation from background noise, ensuring viewers never miss a word, particularly when paired with a HomePod 2nd generation.