tvOS 12
tvOS 12 compatible devices
| Device Name | SOC | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Apple TV 4K (1st generation) | A10X Fusion | 2017-09-22 |
| Apple TV HD | A8 | 2015-10-30 |
Exploring tvOS 12: What's New and Exciting?
tvOS 12, released in 2018 and based on iOS 12, introduced a range of enhancements and new features for Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD.
Dolby Atmos Support
One of the standout features of tvOS 12 was the introduction of Dolby Atmos support for Apple TV 4K. This made Apple TV 4K the only streaming player to be both Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision certified, delivering an immersive audio-visual experience with stunning 4K HDR visuals and three-dimensional sound.
Zero Sign-On
tvOS 12 introduced Zero Sign-On, a feature that simplifies the authentication process for cable subscribers. Apple TV automatically detects the user's broadband network and signs them into all supported apps without requiring any manual input. Initially available to Charter Spectrum customers, this feature aimed to expand to other providers over time.
Enhanced Aerial Screensavers
Apple collaborated with the International Space Station to create new aerial screensavers shot from space by NASA astronauts. These screensavers are interactive, allowing users to see location information and swipe between different scenes, offering a breathtaking visual experience.
Password AutoFill
tvOS 12 introduced Password AutoFill from iPhone and iPad, making it easier for users to sign in to Apple TV apps. This feature leverages the security of iOS to streamline the login process on Apple TV.
Control Center Integration
The update also enhanced the Apple TV Remote functionality by adding it to the Control Center on iPhones and iPads running iOS 12. This provided users with quick access to Apple TV controls from their mobile devices.
Home Control System Integration
tvOS 12 expanded the integration with home control systems like Control4, Crestron, and Savant. This allowed users to control Apple TV using these systems, including the ability to use Siri for voice search and control.
Redesigned Apple TV App
tvOS 12 featured a redesigned Apple TV app, offering a more streamlined and intuitive interface. The new app provided easier access to TV shows, movies, and other content from various streaming services, all in one place. This update also included support for live sports and news, giving users real-time updates and the ability to follow their favorite teams directly from the app.
Legacy
tvOS 12 built upon the solid foundation of previous updates, introducing key features like Dolby Atmos support, Zero Sign-On, and enhanced aerial screensavers. These improvements positioned Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD as powerful and user-friendly entertainment devices, paving the way for future innovations in Apple's streaming ecosystem. The update emphasized seamless content access, enhanced audio-visual experiences, and smarter home integration.