Apple today released tvOS 16.1, the first major update to the tvOS 16 operating system that initially came out in September. tvOS 16.1 is available for the Apple TV 4K and the Apple TV HD.
The tvOS 16.1 update can be downloaded over the air through the Settings app on the Apple TV by going to System -> Software Update. Apple TV owners who have automatic software updates turned on will be upgraded to tvOS 16.1 automatically.
While tvOS updates are often minor in scale compared to other operating system updates, there are a few new features available in tvOS 16.1. Apple Fitness+ can be used with an iPhone, no Apple Watch required, and there is support for iCloud Shared Photo Library.
The update adds a more compact Siri interface that lets users see their request results in the bottom right corner of the TV’s screen rather than in the bottom middle of the display. The new look takes up less space. There is also a new option to enable “Hey Siri” commands when using the Apple TV with AirPods. The toggle can be found in the Settings app under General.
As with the iOS 16.1, iPadOS 16,1, macOS Ventura, and watchOS 9.1 updates, tvOS 16.1 introduces support for the Matter smart home standard that will allow smart home products from different companies to interact with one another. Apple’s full release notes are below:
tvOS 16.1 introduces a completely redesigned Siri experience, brings Shared Photo Library to the biggest screen in the home, and lets you work out and meditate with Apple Fitness+ with iPhone.
Siri
All-new design for Siri makes it even easier to find movies and shows to watch, play the latest music, discover new apps, get sports scores, and more.
Say “Hey Siri” to enjoy hands-free control when wearing AirPods that are connected to your Apple TV.Photos
Shared Photo Library support lets you see your favorite moments from the entire family.
Create a Shared Photo Library on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, then select Shared Library in the Photos app.Apple Fitness+
Work out and meditate with Apple Fitness+ on Apple TV — now all you need is iPhone to receive onscreen coaching, timers, and trainer callouts while also tracking your estimated Move ring progress.Home hub
Matter, the new smart home connectivity standard, is now supported, enabling a wide variety of smart home accessories to work together across ecosystems.
Apple provides additional details on tvOS releases in its dedicated tvOS support document, which is updated after each new iteration of tvOS.
