Apple today announced a series of upcoming software updates across its Home products, available in tvOS 18 and iOS 18, with features designed to improve cinematic experiences, expand smart home functionality, and provide better integration with Apple services.
The updates were announced at the beginning of the tech giant’s WWDC event, during which the company was expected to unveil some new smart home and entertainment features. The updates aim to improve the experience of Apple TV, tvOS, Apple Fitness, Apple Music, FaceTime, and the Home app.
tvOS 18, the newest operating system for Apple TV, is available as a developer beta today and will be available as a free software update in the fall. The update introduces several new features, including InSight, a feature that provides real-time information about actors, characters, and music in Apple TV+ content. Users can access actor backgrounds, filmographies, and add songs to Apple Music playlists directly from their Apple TV or iPhone used as a remote.
Enhance Dialogue is another significant update, using machine learning and computational audio to improve vocal clarity over background noise. This feature is now available on various audio devices including HomePod speakers, built-in TV or HDMI-connected speakers, AirPods, and Bluetooth devices, the company says.
According to Apple, subtitles have been improved to appear automatically during key moments, such as when the language differs from the device setting, when the volume is muted, or during playback rewinds.
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Additionally, tvOS 18 supports 21:9 aspect ratio for projectors as well as new screen savers.
The Home app in iOS 18 introduces guest access, a feature that allows users to grant temporary control over smart locks, garage doors, and security systems.
In addition, a new hands-free unlock feature with home keys enables users to open supported locks from six feet away.
The app also integrates energy usage monitoring in partnership with utilities like Pacific Gas & Electric Company in California, helping users make informed decisions about their electricity consumption, following updates in several other smart home platforms and specifications such as Ikea and Matter.
Additionally, robot vacuum cleaners can now be integrated into Home app automations and controlled via Siri. AirPlay adds support for Spatial Audio, including Dolby Atmos, enhancing the audio experience when streaming from iPhone or iPad to compatible speakers.
On iOS, Control Center has been redesigned to provide easier access to many of the things users do every day, including Home controls, and connectivity, as well as the ability to easily swipe between each. Users can add controls from supported third-party apps into Control Center to do things like unlock a car or open the camera.
When updates are released in the fall, users will be able to shore control of music playing from HomePod and HomePod mini using SharePlay and Apple Music, the company says. Users can bring and iPhone close to another iPhone or scan a QR code in the Apple Music SharePlay window on another iPhone to add songs to the playlist and control playback, even without an Apple Music subscription.
Apple is also adding features to FaceTime with Continuity Camera on tvOS 18, including live English captions in the U.S. and Canada.
The company also made updates to Apple Fitness+, including a personalized For You space, Explore and Library spaces, search features, and more.
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