Tag: Apple TV

  • Apple TV gets new Thread 1.4 support in tvOS 26 beta

    Apple TV gets new Thread 1.4 support in tvOS 26 beta

    Apple has started testing tvOS 26, and one of the biggest updates is support for Thread 1.4, a new version of the smart home networking protocol. Thread 1.4 brings better security, easier device setup, and smoother connections between smart home gadgets. This means your Apple TV can now work even better as a hub for smart devices around your house.

    With Thread 1.4, Apple TV can connect to more types of smart home products, like lights, locks, and sensors, and help them talk to each other more reliably. The update also makes it easier to add new devices to your home network, so you can set up your smart home faster and with fewer problems.

    This change is important because Thread is a key part of Matter, the new universal smart home standard. By supporting Thread 1.4, Apple TV will work better with smart devices from many different brands, not just Apple. This should make it simpler for people to mix and match smart home gadgets and control them all from one place.

    The tvOS 26 beta is available now for developers, and the final version should come out later this year. If you use Apple TV as your smart home hub, this update will help your devices work together more smoothly and securely.

  • Apple TV and Apple Watch may get new looks with upcoming updates

    Apple TV and Apple Watch may get new looks with upcoming updates

    Later in the year, Apple will give its Apple TV and Apple Watch a fresh new design. Reports say that the next updates to tvOS 19 and watchOS 12 will introduce updated designs.

    Apple TV is expected to benefit from tvOS 19, making the user interface both sleeker and easier to use. Though the new version won’t be revolutionary, users will likely find menus work better, with added animations and icons. The purpose is to help users enjoy watching shows and movies with even fewer steps.

    It looks like watchOS 12 could deliver a clearer and more organized interface for the Apple Watch. There may be new ways to customize your apps and notification settings, making everything simpler to find. It’s possible to tweak the appearance of the Control Center and apps to make working with your watch far smoother.

    Most experts expect Apple to outline both updates at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025. Often, Apple uses this event to introduce upcoming software changes before they become available to everyone in the fall.

    All in all, Apple wants to make Apple TV and Apple Watch software more appealing so users can enjoy them more.

  • Apple improves TV app while warning users about AirPlay risks on non-Apple devices

    Apple improves TV app while warning users about AirPlay risks on non-Apple devices

    Apple has recently shared an important warning about using AirPlay on devices not made by Apple. According to security notes from iOS 17.5 beta, AirPlay has three serious security problems that hackers could use to run harmful code. These issues only affect third-party devices like smart TVs or streaming sticks that support AirPlay, not Apple’s own products.

    Apple says these problems have now been fixed, but only on its own devices. It’s not clear when or if third-party manufacturers will patch these flaws. Until then, Apple recommends being careful when using AirPlay on non-Apple devices, especially in places like hotels or public spaces.

    At the same time, Apple is continuing to improve its TV app. A new update has just added better controls for live sports, such as easier ways to follow teams, check scores, and get updates in real time. The “Watch Now” section is also getting smarter by showing more relevant suggestions.

    These changes are part of Apple’s plan to bring more content into one app and make it easier for users to find what they want to watch. The company removed some standalone apps earlier this year to simplify the viewing experience, and the TV app is quickly becoming the main place for watching shows, movies, and sports on Apple devices.

    So while Apple is pushing its TV app forward, it’s also reminding users to stay cautious about security when using third-party AirPlay devices.

     

  • New Apple TV 4K is expected later this year with these 4 upgrades

    New Apple TV 4K is expected later this year with these 4 upgrades

    Apple is working on a new version of the Apple TV 4K, and it might launch later this year. According to a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the upcoming model will bring some useful improvements while keeping the same overall design.

    One of the key upgrades could be a faster chip. The current Apple TV 4K uses the A15 Bionic chip, and the next one may come with an even newer chip to improve speed and performance. This will help apps load quicker and offer a smoother experience, especially when gaming or streaming high-quality video.

    The next upgrade might be better storage. Apple could offer higher storage options so users can download more apps and games without running out of space.

    Another expected change is a new and improved remote control. There were signs of a new Apple TV remote found in iOS 17.4 code, suggesting that a refreshed remote may come with the updated model.

    Lastly, there’s talk about a more affordable price. Apple may try to make the new Apple TV more budget-friendly, which could attract more buyers.

    If Apple sticks to its usual schedule, we may see the new Apple TV 4K announced around fall 2025.

  • Apple TV app gets three simple but helpful updates in iOS 18.4

    Apple TV app gets three simple but helpful updates in iOS 18.4

    The Apple TV app just got a little better with the iOS 18.4 update. This latest version brings three small changes that make using the app easier and more enjoyable. These updates might not seem huge, but they improve how you find and enjoy your favorite shows and movies.

    First, there’s a bigger “plus” button on the featured titles at the top of the app. Before, this button was tiny and tucked away in the corner, but now it’s right next to the “play” button. This makes it super simple to add something to your watchlist without extra taps. It’s perfect for when you spot something cool and want to save it for later.

    Second, the app now shows release dates more clearly for shows that are still airing. If a series has new episodes coming, you’ll see the schedule front and center. No more digging around to figure out when the next episode drops—it’s all right there, saving you time and hassle.

    Finally, the app has a fresh look with new fonts and icons. The text is easier to read, and sections like Movies Spotlight and Sports have fun new symbols. These little tweaks give the app a modern feel while keeping it familiar and easy to use.

    These updates rolled out with iOS 18.4 and tvOS 18.4 on April 4, 2025. They show Apple’s focus on making small, smart improvements to keep the TV app smooth and user-friendly. Whether you’re a fan of shows like Ted Lasso or just browsing, these changes make the experience a bit better. It’s not a big overhaul, but sometimes the small stuff makes a real difference!

  • Exciting new features coming to iPhone and Apple TV

    Exciting new features coming to iPhone and Apple TV

    Apple is working on some exciting new features for its upcoming iPhone 17 and Apple TV. According to recent reports, these devices will share a common feature that will make it easier for users to enjoy their favorite content.

    One of the most anticipated features is the ability to use the iPhone’s camera to control the Apple TV. This means you’ll be able to use your iPhone to navigate through menus, play games, and more on your Apple TV.

    Additionally, Apple is also working on some design tweaks for iOS 19. The new operating system is expected to include some fresh design elements, including updated icons and a new notification system.

    These new features are expected to be announced by Apple in the coming months. As always, Apple is keeping quiet about its upcoming plans, but these rumors give us a glimpse into what’s in store for iPhone and Apple TV users.

  • SwitchBot boosts Home Assistant and Apple TV+ keeps shining with two new shows

    SwitchBot boosts Home Assistant and Apple TV+ keeps shining with two new shows

    SwitchBot is making waves in the smart home world by adding support for Home Assistant, a popular platform that lets you control devices locally without relying on the cloud. This update, rolling out in 2025, will connect over 45 SwitchBot gadgets—like curtain motors and locks—to Home Assistant.

    For Apple users, the real treat is the continued use of Matter, a system that links SwitchBot products to HomeKit easily. With the SwitchBot Hub 2, devices work smoothly in the Home app, letting you set scenes or automate tasks. Home Assistant adds extra flexibility, perfect for those who want more control and privacy. This move shows SwitchBot’s push to fit into any smart home setup, especially for Apple fans who don’t want to change everything.

    Apple TV+ Keeps Shining with Two Exciting New Shows

    Apple TV+ is on a roll, and it’s not slowing down! After big hits like Severance, two fresh releases are set to keep the excitement going. First up is The Studio, dropping its first two episodes on March 26, 2025. Critics are raving about this show, which nearly scored a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.

    Then, in a few weeks, Your Friends & Neighbors arrives, starring Jon Hamm as a struggling rich guy turned thief. Early buzz calls it a mix of Big Little Lies and Breaking Bad. With Apple TV+ already renewing it for a second season, these shows prove the service is a must-watch in 2025!

  • Apple TV losing big money yearly and SpyX leak hits iPhone users hard

    Apple TV losing big money yearly and SpyX leak hits iPhone users hard

    Apple TV is bleeding cash, dropping around $1 billion each year, according to a recent report. The streaming service, meant to compete with giants like Netflix and Amazon, just isn’t pulling in enough viewers or profits. Experts say Apple keeps pouring money into big-name shows and movies, but the audience isn’t growing fast enough to make up for it.

    Even with popular titles, the costs are piling up way faster than the cash coming in. This has sparked chatter about whether Apple needs to rethink its game plan—maybe tweak pricing, push more ads, or find cheaper ways to create content. For now, the company’s deep pockets are keeping it afloat, but how long can that last?

    Meanwhile, a massive data leak from SpyX, a sneaky stalkerware app, has put millions of iPhone users at risk. This nasty software lets people secretly track others—think call logs, texts, and even locations—without them knowing. The breach spilled personal info from tons of victims, leaving them open to scams or worse.

    Reports say SpyX was sneaky enough to slip past Apple’s tight security, raising big questions about how safe iPhones are. Users are now being told to watch for weird phone behavior and update their devices fast. This mess has sparked a firestorm, with people demanding Apple step up and crack down harder on shady apps like this.

    Both stories show how tricky the tech world can be. Apple’s burning cash to keep its TV dream alive, while iPhone fans are dealing with a creepy privacy scare. The company’s got a lot on its plate—figuring out how to make streaming pay off and keeping users safe from leaks. For now, Apple TV’s losses and the SpyX disaster are tough reminders that even the biggest names can stumble. Fans are left wondering: can Apple bounce back from these hits, or are more bumps ahead? Only time will tell, but it’s clear the pressure’s on.

  • Abode’s new Apple TV app makes home security simple

    Abode’s new Apple TV app makes home security simple

    Abode, a company known for its easy-to-use smart home security system that works with Apple’s HomeKit, just rolled out a fresh app for Apple TV. This brings all their security tools and smart home controls right to your TV screen. I’ve been using Abode’s setup for over four years and really love what they offer.

    With this new app, Abode users can turn their security system on or off, watch live video from up to four Abode cameras, and look back at saved clips—all without leaving the sofa. The app’s look and feel match the one on your iPhone, so it’s super simple to use and manage your gadgets without digging for your phone.

    One cool perk comes with Abode’s 24/7 recording option. If you’ve got it turned on, you can scroll through hours of video or skip to important moments right on your Apple TV. So, if a motion alert pops up during your favorite show, you can check it out instantly—no iPhone needed. Plus, if you use Abode CUE for smart home tricks, you can tweak certain devices straight from the app’s main screen.

    As an Abode user myself, I love how this app lets you check your security from almost any device—iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and now your TV. The design stays the same across all these, which keeps things familiar. The Apple TV app store doesn’t get many new apps beyond streaming ones, so it’s exciting to see Abode step up with something fresh.

    Abode plays nicely with HomeKit too. You can control the system through Apple’s Home app, but the real win is how Abode’s sensors—like ones for doors, windows, or motion—work as HomeKit devices. This lets you add them to HomeKit scenes and automations for extra convenience. Want to know more? Check out Abode’s blog about their new Apple TV app (and an updated Google TV one too), or grab an Abode starter kit on Amazon.

  • Why Apple TV+ is going big on shows from around the world

    Why Apple TV+ is going big on shows from around the world

    Netflix recently shared its latest report on what people watched most in the last half of 2024. One standout detail from this report might clue us in on why Apple TV+ is suddenly focusing so much on shows and movies that aren’t in English.

    Netflix’s Worldwide Fans Love Variety

    Netflix is a giant compared to Apple TV+, so it’s tricky to compare their hits side by side. Still, the report revealed something eye-opening: almost a third of all Netflix viewing comes from shows and films in languages other than English. That’s a huge slice of their massive audience! Plus, three of their top 10 most-watched shows—like Squid Game season 2—weren’t in English either.

    Netflix has been pouring effort into global stories for years, and it’s clearly working as they grow fans all over the world. Apple TV+, though smaller, is starting to follow a similar path by boosting its lineup of non-English shows.

    Apple TV+ Steps Up with Global Stories

    In its early days, Apple TV+ made a few non-English shows like Pachinko and Drops of God. Critics loved them, but they were exceptions in a mostly English collection. Lately, though, things have changed fast. Since September, Apple TV+ has rolled out new titles like:

    • Berlin ER (a German hospital show)
    • Love You to Death (a Spanish rom-com)
    • You Would Do It Too (a Spanish crime story)
    • Where’s Wanda? (a German funny mystery)
    • Midnight Family (a Spanish doctor drama)
    • La Maison (a French fashion tale)

    Even with fewer releases overall, Apple TV+ is now dropping about one new non-English show each month. Netflix’s winning streak with global hits might be the push behind this shift.

    Aiming for Fans Everywhere

    While the U.S. is still Apple’s main focus, these moves show they’re dreaming bigger—hoping to win over viewers worldwide. Maybe the buzz around Severance will get more people hooked on their global gems too. Apple TV+ costs $9.99 a month and offers popular shows and movies like Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking.