Apple has rolled out fresh software updates for its two home devices today. tvOS 18.2 and HomePod 18.2 are now live. Here’s a look at the new features.
tvOS 18.2 introduces a new screensaver, projector support, and additional features
With tvOS 18.2, the Apple TV 4K is receiving multiple enhancements:
- A brand new Snoopy screensaver
- Support for more screen aspect ratios, tailored for projector use
These updates were initially unveiled by Apple during WWDC in June.
While they were not included in tvOS 18.0, they have finally made their way into 18.2 before the year’s end.
Users of projectors will particularly benefit from the newly added 21:9 aspect ratio, adjustable via the Settings app under Audio and Video settings.
Additionally, it seems tvOS 18.2 brings natural language support for Siri, enhancing the search experience for TV shows and movies—a feature also seen in iOS 18.2. The iOS 18.2 release notes explain: “Natural language search in Apple Music and the Apple TV app allows you to specify your search using categories like genres, moods, actors, decades, and more.”
HomePod 18.2 enhances Apple Music Siri functionality and adds Enhance Dialogue feature
The HomePod has seen several software updates throughout 2024, but today’s version 18.2 introduces significant enhancements.
Along with routine bug fixes and stability improvements, HomePods gain two new features. According to Apple’s release notes:
Siri on HomePod now features natural language search with Apple Music, allowing you to describe what you would like to listen to using various categories such as genre, mood, decade, or activity.
This addition is impressive, especially since it coincides with a similar enhancement in Apple Music for iPhone via iOS 18.2. Music requests through Siri are prevalent on HomePod, making this improvement very beneficial.
Next, there’s a feature exclusive to the 2nd generation HomePods:
Enhance Dialogue on HomePod (2nd generation) paired with Apple TV 4K allows for clearer speech amidst background noise through real-time audio processing and machine learning.
I personally appreciate the Enhance Dialogue feature in tvOS 18, and now with the 2nd generation HomePod serving as your TV speaker, Apple has improved it even further. I’m eager to see the difference this upgrade provides.
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