tvOS 18: Release Date, Features, Apple TV Compatibility, and More
tvOS 18 is Apple’s next operating system for the Apple TV streaming media player and HomePod speakers. Following the feature-rich tvOS 17 update, it’s uncertain what the company will introduce to enhance the existing features of this hardware, aside from minor adjustments.
With iOS 18 expected to feature a major revamp focused on AI, here’s what we know about tvOS 18.
What will Apple name the next tvOS update?
Although predicting the names of macOS versions can be challenging, determining the names for tvOS updates is relatively straightforward.
If Apple continues its usual pattern, the successor to tvOS 17 will be named tvOS 18. Currently, the internal codename for this operating system is unknown. However, knowing it won’t make a difference, as it won’t affect how Apple names tvOS.
tvOS 18 features
Unlike hardware releases, predicting software improvements for Apple’s new operating system is challenging because it’s all done internally. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that iOS 18 could be an “ambitious and compelling” upgrade, but specific details about tvOS are lacking. We also anticipate significant changes for macOS 15 and iPadOS 18.
Last year, Gurman predicted that tvOS 17 would be a minor update, with no major changes planned for Apple TV users. However, Apple still introduced FaceTime, a redesigned Control Center, Find My for the Siri Remote, third-party VPN support, and enhancements to Apple Fitness+.
Apple even gave tvOS 17 screen time during WWDC 2023. Let’s hope the same happens with tvOS 18.
Since tvOS heavily relies on Apple’s services like Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and Apple Fitness+, any changes in these services would likely bring new features for tvOS users. Therefore, we anticipate updates for Apple Music and ongoing enhancements to the other services. Additionally, you can find more information about the Apple One subscription here.
Apple Music SharePlay
In the beta testing phase of tvOS 17.4, Apple had intended to introduce Apple Music SharePlay to Apple TV. This feature would have allowed users to add songs to a queue by scanning a QR code. However, Apple ultimately decided to remove this feature, and it was not reinstated with the release of tvOS 17.5.
It’s possible that Apple might be saving it for tvOS 18 instead.
tvOS 18 release date
If Apple continues its usual pattern, it is expected that the company will announce tvOS 18 during the WWDC 2024 keynote. The conference is scheduled to occur on June 10 at Apple Park. Subsequently, tvOS 18 will be made available for developers to test.
tvOS 18 beta and public beta
Apple TV users do not currently have access to the tvOS 18 beta. However, it is probable that enrollment in the program will be open to anyone interested. Once the testing version becomes available, follow the steps outlined below.
- Open Settings
- Tap System, then Software Updates
- Select Get Beta Updates, agree with the terms, and select tvOS 18 Beta Developer or tvOS 18 Public Beta
- Update your TV to the latest version available
Compatible Apple TV and HomePod models
Since the inception of tvOS, Apple has provided support for all Apple TV models, beginning with the 2015 HD version. It remains uncertain whether Apple will discontinue support for this model to concentrate solely on the 4K version.
Currently, the following set-top boxes and smart speakers are compatible with tvOS 17:
- Apple TV HD (2015)
- Apple TV 4K (1st gen)
- Apple TV 4K (2nd gen)
- Apple TV 4K (3rd gen)
- HomePod (2018)
- HomePod mini (2020)
- HomePod 2 (2023)
