Owners of the Apple TV Fourth Generation, released in 2015 with its own App Store, now have access to the first proper update of the tvOS 10, released in September.
The upgrade brings Single sign-on and a new TV app, providing users with a new video app where users can gain access to a curated guide across Apple’s own iTunes store and third-party video providers in one app across TV, iPhone and iPad.
Single sign-on support offers users a simplified way of watching pay-TV video channels. If the service is activated (Settings > Accounts > TV Provider) users only need to sign-on once through the Apple TV to access channels included in their cable package. It’s currently only compatible with CenturyLink Prism, DirecTV, Dish, GVTC, GTA, Hawaiian Telcom, Hotwire, Metrocast, Service Electric and Sling TV but additional providers and compatible pay TV apps will be added in the future, says Apple.
The new TV guide app also arrives in tvOS 10.1. This allows users to see all third-party TV subscriptions, iTunes purchases and rentals within one app. It supports Single sign-on, Siri Live Tune-In and also features a ‘Store’ tab allowing users to discover and access video content from Apple and third-parties.
As with iOS 10.2, released simultaneously, the new features are currently US-only.
Elsewhere, tvOS 10.1 features bug fixes, performance improvements and other tweaks for all users. Apple also updated their third-generation Apple TV software to 8.4.2 to provide stability enhancements.
The update shows Apple taking further steps towards making the Apple TV box the centre of living room entertainment. As Tim Cook has repeatedly said, “The future of TV is apps.”
To update an Apple TV, go to Settings > System > Software Updates > Update Software then either download and install or update later.
Apple TVs are available direct from Apple at apple.com
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