The second tvOS 9.2 beta is now available on the fourth-generation Apple TV. This update brings Apple TV 3 features including a Podcasts app and Bluetooth keyboard support to the latest streaming set-top box. The beta software also brings iOS-like features including app folders to the Apple TV. We’ll check out the latest beta version of the upcoming release and highlight any changes below.
The new Podcasts app is designed very much like the iOS 9 update to the app with a focus on unplayed episodes and current subscriptions. The first beta version of tvOS 9.2, however, lacked support for video podcasts and Siri control so this will be a space to watch. Earlier today, Apple released tvOS 9.1.1 which also includes the new Podcasts app for everyone.
Bluetooth keyboard support works just as expected. Pairing is easy and hardware keyboards can be used anywhere that text input is an option including search boxes. Basic navigation using arrow controls, escape, and the space bar is also supported.
Folders let you group similar apps like games into a scrolling view with three columns and infinite rows. This feature was previously unavailable on past Apple TV models, showing the benefit of the iOS-based tvOS platform. There’s also a new app switcher user interface that works more like iOS 9 and less like iOS 8.
Check out our hands-on with the original tvOS 9.2 beta:
Let us know in the comments, via email at tips at 9to5mac dot com, or on Twitter @9to5Mac if you spot any changes in the new beta, and we’ll update with changes we find as well.
Here’s what’s new:
- Apple’s Podcasts app now supports video playback … great for catching up on Apple keynotes.
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Apple should have a an OTA public beta for tvos. Apple TV 4is still a beta device to me, Why not allow more people look for bug or submit feedback after waiting a d day or 2 to make sure the developer release is stable?
Podcasts is nice option, though doubt I’ll use it much on the tv. Folders will be very useful. The update also has me contemplating a keyboard, though I’m hopeful dictation in search will become an option within the year.
iCloud Photo Library!
I just updated to the 9.1.1 on the Apple TV an now got the podcast app. But why was it made a non removable app and not just a download like it is on the other iOS devices? This is just wrong. Soon it going to be like our phone a bunch of non removable apps we don’t use.
You can’t remove the podcast app from any iOS device.
Wow when did that change. I just looked and sure enough it is on my iPad. Didn’t used to be. I had it back once it was a download and hated it. The only podcasts I watch are on the Twit network so I just use their app anyway.
Folder… Fantastic!
Next big missing feature that need attention immediately imho is :
Consolidation of favorites in user creadted interapp folders (universal) with notification of content availibility for each folder…
Ex.. My fave comedy folder… My fave scify …etc. where content from many different apps is consolidated.
Wonder if the podcast app can play full screen videos?, which has not been the case for any iPad since June last year (except the mini iPads)……google it…apple cs have been flooded with complains,…I’m now on my 19th update since June 8.15 and nothing has been done to address this problem. This podcast app can’t even play full screen video on the new iPad pro….it’s a scandal and extremely bad performance of Apple not to acknowledge the problem.
Suggestion: How about making appfolders that automatic place apps in correct category like bought apps category list? The same should be on ipad and IPhone as an on and off switch. Default on. Please Apple!!!