tvOS 16: New features, compatibility, release date, HomePod support
Apple previewed tvOS 16 during the WWDC 2022 keynote. This is Apple TV and HomePod’s upcoming operating system, which will be available to all users later this fall. Here’s everything we know about Apple’s future tvOS update.
Table of contents
New features in tvOS 16
Just like tvOS 15, Apple didn’t say a word about tvOS 16 during the WWDC 2022 keynote. Even though, there are some new features coming with this future release. Here’s what you need to know about it:
- Nintendo Switch controllers compatibility: tvOS 16 will finally support Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons and Pro Controller. We feature this story here at 9to5Mac. Apple says “many additional Bluetooth and USB game controllers are supported by the Game Controller.”
- HDR10+ support: The latest generation of high-dynamic-range technology is now supported in the Apple TV app.
- Video-forward featuring on the Apple TV+ tab: Rich video previews at the top of the Apple TV+ tab help users discover their next favorite Apple Original.
- Apple Fitness+: With tvOS 16, at key moments in the workout, Intensity Metrics are called out and will appear on the screen for motivation. The intensities are Easy, Moderate, Hard, and All Out.
In a future update, tvOS 16 will be the smart home hub for Matter-compatible products. Apple explains:
Matter will allow you to choose from even more compatible smart home accessories and control them with the Home app and Siri on Apple devices. It will require the latest tvOS and an Apple TV or HomePod running as a home hub.
Device compatibility
All Apple TVs and HomePods that support tvOS 15 will likely keep supporting tvOS 16. Here are them:
- Apple TV HD
- Apple TV 4K or later
- HomePod
- HomePod mini
Release date: When will tvOS 16 come out?
tvOS 16 was announced on June 6, during WWDC 2022’s keynote. In July, Apple will release the public beta version of the operating system.
One interesting feature in this year’s operating system is that Apple will finally make a public beta version of HomePod Software 16. As of now, the company didn’t release the first beta of the HomePod software, meaning we still don’t know what’s coming next with this operating system.
