Here is Everything New for the Apple TV in the tvOS 18.3 Update So Far

[MacRumors]

Apple on Monday seeded the first tvOS 18.3 beta to developers for testing. The update will likely be released in January. So far, there are only minor changes for the Apple TV, with one new feature and a few code changes discovered.

Below, we outline what is new in tvOS 18.3 so far.

Robot Vacuum Support in Home App

First, tvOS 18.3 will add robot vacuum support to the Home app on the Apple TV, based on code-level references to the feature in the first beta.

Here is how Apple describes the feature, which has faced a delayed launch:

The Home app now supports the core functionality of robot vacuum cleaners, such as power control, cleaning mode, vacuum, mop, and charge status. They can also participate in automations and scenes, and respond to Siri requests. So you can add them to your cleaning routines — or tell Siri to do some spot cleaning in the living room.

Likewise, the iOS 18.3 beta will add robot vacuum support to the Home app on the iPhone.

Code Changes

Additional Screen Savers Removed

The recently-released tvOS 18.2 update for the Apple TV added a rotating Snoopy screen saver to 2021 and newer models, but it appears that other new screen savers that Apple planned for the device have either been canceled or postponed.

Apple was planning at least two additional screen saver categories for the Apple TV. The first was a "TV and Movies" category of screen savers based on content from Apple TV+ series and movies, and the second was a "Soundscapes" category of screen savers overlaid with relaxing background sounds, including water and nature sounds.

MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris has confirmed that hidden references to the "TV and Movies" and "Soundscapes" screen saver categories that were in tvOS 18.2 code are no longer present in the first tvOS 18.3 beta's code.

Last month, it was reported that Apple removed all references to the "TV and Movies" screen savers from its Apple TV page, including a preview of a new screen saver based on the Apple TV+ series "Foundation." With references to the screen savers removed in the tvOS 18.3 beta, there is now even more evidence they are canceled or postponed.

In addition to Snoopy, existing screen saver categories on the Apple TV include Aerials, Memories, and a Portraits option with an on-screen clock.

Digital Sales Notice


The following digital sales notice will be visible in the Apple TV app, according to tvOS 18.3 code:

When you purchase access to this item, you can permanently download it to your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or PC. Once downloaded, you can access this without an internet connection, and Apple can't remove it from your device. If you purchase this from the Apple TV app on Apple TV, smart TVs, or other streaming devices, you can't download it on those devices, but you can easily download it on compatible devices.

tvOS 18 updates are compatible with all 2015 and newer Apple TV models, but some features and capabilities require a newer model.

Article Link: Here is Everything New for the Apple TV in the tvOS 18.3 Update So Far

 

[icanhazmac]

I don't hate Siri as much as some here, but I do admit to some fear of asking her to "spot clean the living room". Unfortunately no list of compatible vacuums, looking at you iRobot.

 

[markfc]

It’s still a hobby project isn’t it…

 

[dmr727]

Was excited to see the Snoopy screensaver in 18.2, just to find out that the initial 4K Apple TV isn't supported. Can't understand why the screensaver won't support that hardware?

 

[Apple_Robert]

Was excited to see the Snoopy screensaver in 18.2, just to find out that the initial 4K Apple TV isn't supported. Can't understand why the screensaver won't support that hardware?

The Snoopy screen savers would be even better with a Peanuts soundtrack.

I might like a screen saver with mellowing sounds to relax.

 

[dmfresco]

Is there a guide to which robot vacuums will be supported in HomeKit?

 

[cookiemonster89]

Hands down the corresponding app from the manufacturer will be a 100 times better than using HomeKit for this. I often just want to clean single rooms instead of everything. And in the end Siri will do the opposite of what you asked for = mopping the carpet

 

[Salt City Ute]

Did Apple remove the TV Shows and Movies app?

 

[carlsson]

As soon as Apple releases new HW I'll buy me a new Apple TV! ❤️

 

[goobot]

Why would it be downloadable on every device but Apple TV?

 

[d5aqoëp]

As soon as Apple releases new HW I'll buy me a new Apple TV! ❤️

As soon as Apple releases ATMOS and DTS passthrough,I'll buy me a new Apple TV! ❤️

Corrected for you and me.

 

[Zapski]

Did Apple remove the TV Shows and Movies app?

Some time ago they were disabled, yes

 

[chenks]

Why would it be downloadable on every device but Apple TV?

because you can't "download" anything on an Apple TV

 

[chenks]

Some time ago they were disabled, yes

the apps still physically remain on the device, they just show a message saying they are no longer supported when opening them.

 

[Baseiseough]

As soon as Apple releases ATMOS and DTS passthrough,I'll buy me a new Apple TV! ❤️

What are you talking about ? DTS? passthrough? Atmos ??? Geez this is the Apple TV we are talking about. It's primarily for robot vacuums and snoopy screen savers, not this passthrough thingy that doesn't mean jack with a tv. Geez get real! 🤪

 

[Salt City Ute]

the apps still physically remain on the device, they just show a message saying they are no longer supported when opening them.

Which is beyond stupid!

 

[vegetassj4]

Hey Siri! Clean my room.

Siri: Ok, playing Clean My Room

 

[goobot]

because you can't "download" anything on an Apple TV

Kinda seems pointless to have a higher tier Apple TV in storage if you can’t download anything. The number of apps make in unlikely to be filled that way.

 

[socialwill]

While I love the Apple TV, there are parts that are a little frustrating for me:

• Dolby Vision screen blinking between content
• Frequently hitting the BACK button vs the pause button, only to bounce completely out of something
• Better/native integration with LIVE TV providers would be great
• Work with Xbox and PlayStation on getting cloud gaming into the platform

Overall I really enjoy it, but it feels like it could be so much more. A little bummed on the screensavers, but I really enjoy the high framerate nature/city videos. They look much better on the TV than on Apple devices for some reason.

 

[BigBlur]

I control my iRobot Roomba with my HomePod via Siri Shortcuts (and automations). What would HomeKit provide that I can't do already?

 

[CausticSoda]

Hey Siri! Clean my room.

Hey, I'm the new AI Smart Siri with Sirius Attitude. I can't help with that, but here's what I found on the web...

Do it yourself, loser!

 

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I control my iRobot Roomba with my HomePod via Siri Shortcuts (and automations). What would HomeKit provide that I can't do already?

More revenue for Apple (from those who buy an AppleTV expecting more)?

 

[DMinTX]

I have been seeing ATV shut downs regularly since the 18.2 update. It typically is when YouTube is running a long video with the sound muted.

I have seen reports of others seeing shutdowns as well. This needs to be addressed.

 

[nt5672]

Man our Apple TV is not even plugged in. Guess we better hook it back up to get this excellent update.

 

[HobeSoundDarryl]

Hey Siri! Clean my room.

Siri: Ok, playing Clean My Room

"No, use the sweeper to clean my room"

"Here's what I found on the web for sweeping a room"

"No, vacuum my room!"

"Sucking all oxygen from your room. Immediate evacuation is recommended. Oops!" <sinister music plays while Siri is dialing phone> "Hello Alexa & Google? I got another one. Come on over and check out MY new place."