Your Apple TV can now make FaceTime calls and play karaoke – if you update to tvOS 17
Your Apple TV becomes more personal. The promised tvOS 17 update is finally arriving on Apple TVs, bringing changes including FaceTime integration and karaoke.
Apple unveiled the update in June at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), and tvOS 17 is a major update that brings a host of new features and functionality to your Apple TV 4K (and Apple TV HD).
This latest version is packed with improvements, like the aforementioned FaceTime on Apple TV, the new Memories screensaver, an updated Control Room, and helpful audio updates. These additions have the potential to transform the way we use our Apple TV.
FaceTime on the big screen
One of the most highly anticipated features of tvOS 17 is the addition of FaceTime. Now you can enjoy video calls on your TV screen, making family calls, video meetings and group chats more immersive than ever.
However, you still need your best iPhone to enjoy this feature. FaceTime on AppleTV uses your iPhone as a webcam, but instead of watching your friends and family on that device’s relatively small screen, you’re watching the largest screen in your house, the 4K (or HDTV) that’s on your Apple TV connected.
When it comes to group conversations, Apple’s Center Stage technology ensures everyone stays in view, even as they move.
But that is not everything; you can also multitask during a FaceTime call. The addition of SharePlay allows you to watch shows, movies or sporting events while chatting with friends and family. Furthermore, the future looks promising, with Webex and Cisco planning to launch their own versions of video calling on the platform later this year.
Audio updates
If you’re a fan of high-quality audio, you’ll be happy to hear that with tvOS 17 you can now use your second-generation HomePod to separate dialogue on your top streaming shows and movies. This improvement promises to deliver a more immersive and dynamic audio experience.
The new update also brings Dolby 8.1 compatibility to your Apple TV. This feature can be a game-changer for anyone who values superior sound quality while watching their favorite shows or movies.
Convenience and personalization
Apple didn’t just focus on audio and video features. You can now locate your Siri remote using your phone, so you never have to play hide and seek with your remote again. The new Apple TV Control Center offers more personalized content based on user profiles, giving every family member a unique Apple TV experience.
Entertainment center
For those who love to perform their favorite songs, Apple has introduced “Apple Music Sing” as part of tvOS 17. This feature turns your living room into a karaoke stage, so you can sing along to your favorite songs and, if you have Continuity Camera ( that uses your iPhone as a webcam), even record your performances.
The iOS17 update was rolled out to Apple TV streaming boxes this week. If you don’t see it, navigate to your Apple TV settings and check for updates.