Skip to content

tvOS 16

tvOS 16 compatible devices

Device Name SOC Release Date
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) A15 Bionic 2022-11-04
Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) A12 Bionic 2021-05-21
Apple TV 4K (1st generation) A10X Fusion 2017-09-22
Apple TV HD A8 2015-10-30

Exploring tvOS 16: What's New and Exciting?

tvOS 16, released in 2022 and based on iOS 16, introduced several new features and enhancements for Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD.

Cross-Device Connectivity

One of the standout features of tvOS 16 is enhanced cross-device connectivity. This feature allows developers to integrate their Apple TV apps with their iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch apps, providing a more seamless and connected experience across Apple devices.

Matter Support

tvOS 16 introduced support for Matter, a new smart home connectivity standard. This allows a broader range of smart home devices to integrate with HomeKit, enhancing the smart home ecosystem and making Apple TV an even more central hub for home automation.

HDR10+ Support

The update added support for HDR10+ in Apple TV app on third-generation Apple TV 4K, providing improved video quality with better contrast and colors for compatible content and displays. This enhancement ensures a richer and more dynamic viewing experience.

Expanded Game Controller Support

tvOS 16 expanded support for game controllers, including compatibility with Nintendo's Joy-Con and Pro Controllers. This update enhances the gaming experience on Apple TV by providing more controller options for users.

Siri Voice Recognition

tvOS 16 brought Siri voice recognition to Apple TV, enabling personalized experiences for up to six different users. This feature allows Siri to recognize individual voices and provide tailored recommendations and content based on the user's profile.

New Home App Architecture

The update included a revamped Home app architecture, making it faster and more reliable for controlling smart home devices. This enhancement ensures a smoother and more efficient smart home management experience.

Legacy

tvOS 16 built on the solid foundation of previous updates, introducing key features like cross-device connectivity, Matter support, and expanded game controller compatibility. These improvements positioned Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD as more powerful and versatile entertainment devices, paving the way for future innovations in Apple's streaming ecosystem.