Apple has released tvOS 27.2, and it adds four-speaker HomePod surround sound ahead of the new Apple TV 4K (4th generation). Open Settings on the Apple TV, then System, then Software Update to install it, or leave automatic updates on and it installs by itself.
The update also improves Apple Music, Podcasts and AirPlay, brings captions to more content and adds the ability to block individual apps. The surround setup needs the new Apple TV 4K, which goes on sale Friday, November 13, so owners of an older Apple TV 4K get the rest. tvOS 27 runs on the Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) and later, and the Apple TV HD stays on tvOS 26.
HomePod surround sound setup needs the new Apple TV 4K
tvOS 27.2 adds a four-speaker surround setup that runs on the Apple TV, with an option to start it from the Apple TV remote on iPhone. The speakers and the Apple TV form a home theater group that counts as one accessory, and audio timing and levels are calibrated to the room automatically.
It works with four HomePod mini 2 speakers, four HomePod (2nd generation) speakers, or two of each, as long as the front pair matches and the rear pair matches. The original HomePod, the original HomePod mini and older Apple TV models are not supported, and the setup requires the new Apple TV 4K.
Four HomePod mini 2 speakers at $149 each plus the Apple TV 4K (4th generation) at $299 come to $895. HomePod mini 2 ships Friday, October 30, two weeks before the new Apple TV 4K.
App blocking, more captions and Screen Saver Shuffle reach every Apple TV 4K
You can now block individual apps on the Apple TV, and more content carries captions. The Shuffle option in Settings, then Screen Saver, then Current Selection cycles through Aerials, Memories & Slideshows, Portraits and Snoopy during the day instead of staying on one category.
Memories & Slideshows and Portraits can be set up from an iPhone or iPad, so only the iCloud photos you pick appear on the TV. The profile picture picker also offers characters from Apple TV shows next to the usual emoji, and they work for managed profiles only.
Siri AI for older Apple TV 4K models is not listed in tvOS 27.2
Apple has said Siri AI comes to older Apple TV 4K models as a beta, starting with the Apple TV 4K (2nd generation), but tvOS 27.2 does not list it. Check Settings after you update before counting on it.
Here are the full release notes from Apple:
This update brings new ways to stay connected with FaceTime, personalize your screen saver, and locate your Siri Remote with Find My, along with bug fixes and security updates for your Apple TV 4K.
FaceTime
FaceTime links make it easier to join calls directly from your Apple TV.
Sign language interpreter and captioning support lets you add third-party services to your calls.
Screen Savers
Photo personalization lets you use your iPhone to choose specific photos for your screen saver without sharing your full library with Apple TV.
Shuffle option lets you enjoy different screen saver categories as your Apple TV cycles through them.
Find My
Find My support lets you locate your Siri Remote (2nd generation) or later using your iPhone.
1 comment