Discover What's New in tvOS 27 and visionOS 27: Faster Performance, Enhanced Music Features, and Smart Siri Upgrades

Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) showcased new operating system versions across its major platforms. While updates for iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and macOS typically capture most attention, there are also notable improvements for the Apple TV (the streaming device) and Apple Vision Pro. Here’s what to expect in these new releases.

tvOS Updates

tvOS 27 has been optimized for performance, promising faster app launches and a more responsive control center. Apple Music, for instance, now starts playing content more quickly and gains support for Hi-Res Lossless (24-bit/192kHz) playback. Additionally, AirPlay connections between Apple TV and HomePods are expected to be faster.

The Podcast app has been overhauled to support both audio and video formats, along with a smart downloads feature. Gamers on Apple TV will also benefit from a redesigned game controller interface.

If you have smart devices at home, tvOS 27 introduces support for Thread 1.4 and 4K video recordings. HomeKit Secure Video recordings will be processed directly on the device, allowing for automated descriptions and enhanced search functionality.

Accessibility enhancements include options for larger text in the user interface and broader support for Made for iPhone hearing aids. Machine translation for English subtitles into multiple languages is also available.

Currently, tvOS 27 is accessible as a developer beta, with a public beta expected soon. The stable version is anticipated to launch later this year, possibly in September.

visionOS Enhancements

Most of the updates for Apple’s XR headset are focused on the new Siri AI and Apple Intelligence capabilities. These enhancements do not solely pertain to the Apple Vision Pro; Siri is becoming smarter across all compatible Apple devices, including the Vision Pro. A new Siri app has also been introduced.

New Siri app • Safari organizes bookmarks automatically • Image Playground features

With the introduction of Visual Intelligence, users can simply look at an object and ask Siri for more information. Apple Intelligence will integrate with various applications, such as allowing Safari to automatically group Reading List items by topic while offering advanced controls in Image Playground.

visionOS 27 is designed to enhance user experience on the Apple Vision Pro. One new feature allows users to transform panoramas into spatial scenes, which can then be set as their environment.

Transform panoramas into environments • Curved windows • Preview and edit 3D objects

The update also introduces the ability to create curved virtual windows and incorporate 3D objects into your workspace for preview and editing. Additionally, Apple has redesigned the Control Center to ensure that notifications expand automatically when viewed.