Today Apple pushed out a tvOS 16 RC preview system update, with the specific version number (20J373). Apple has also pushed out a preview version of HomePod software 16 RC for the HomePod mini speaker, bringing some performance and stability improvements.
Developers can download the new tvOS 16 beta by using Xcode to download a configuration file to Apple TV.
The tvOS 16 supports cross-device connectivity, a feature that allows developers to integrate Apple TV apps with iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch apps to unlock new experiences on the TV. Apple has also improved how multiple user profiles work in tvOS 16 by adding shared keychains, so users don’t have to sign in and select their profile when launching an Apple TV app.
Game controller support has been expanded to include Nintendo Joy-Cons and Pro controllers, and HDR10+ support is available in tvOS 16 Apple TV apps. With tvOS 16, Apple TV will support the upcoming standard Matter, which will improve interoperability between smart home accessories from different companies.
- Overview of tvOS 16 features for Apple TV.
- Cross-device connectivity: Apple said tvOS 16 enables developers to integrate their Apple TV apps with iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch apps to unlock new experiences that are “more personal than ever. For example, developers can provide more personalized workouts on Apple TV based on motion sensor data from Apple Watch, display real-time information on iPhone while videos are playing in Apple TV apps, or include more gaming screens.
- Expanded gamepad support: Apple says that starting with tvOS 16, “many additional Bluetooth and USB game controllers are supported,” notably including support for Nintendo’s Joy-Cons and Pro control grips.
- HDR10+ support: The latest generation of High Dynamic Range technology will be supported in Apple TV apps on tvOS 16.
- Multi-user improvements: tvOS 16 offers improved system integration for user profiles in Apple TV apps. Apple says that with credentials stored in a shared keychain, users do not need to sign in and select their profile at each launch.
- Matter support: Matter is a new standard that will enable compatible smart home accessories to work seamlessly across multiple platforms, including Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and more. A Home Hub is required to control Matter accessories in the Home app, including Apple TV with tvOS 16 update, HomePod / HomePod mini updated to the latest software version.
- Apple TV+ tab video forwarding: A rich video preview at the top of the Apple TV+ tab helps users discover their next favorite Apple original.
