Apple released new updates to the TV app and Airplay via iOS 12.3 that are rolling out to devices now.
One of the new changes you’ll see is a Channels exploration page in the TV app where users can subscribe to premium networks such as HBO, Showtime and Starz. The new Channels initiative is what we heard about at Apple’s event in March, and in the fall will further expand with Apple TV+.
Other channels you’ll find access to include Acorn TV, CBS All Access, Cinemax, Comedy Central Now, EPIX, Mubi, Nickelodeon, Smithsonian, Sundance, Tastemade, The History Channel, and Vault (although some may still require 3rd-party access).
Updates to Apple TV app
- The Apple TV app features an all-new design that highlights expertly curated collections and personalized recommendations
- Apple TV channels offer subscriptions to HBO, Showtime, Starz, and more, available to watch directly in the Apple TV app, online or off
- Subscriptions to Apple TV channels can be shared with up to six family members, with no new apps, accounts, or passwords needed
- New release movies are available to buy or rent in the Apple TV app, including the full catalog of over 100,000 movies and the largest selection of 4K HDR titles
- A new dedicated kids section helps you discover editorially-handpicked shows and movies safe for kids of all ages
- The Apple TV app can now intelligently suggest playing to the most likely Apple TVs or AirPlay 2-enabled TVs nearby
The update also includes support for AirPlay 2 on select TVs so you can share videos, photos, and music with one tap on your device, use Siri Suggestions with AirPlay option, and, suggestions are kept your on your device for privacy.
Update to AirPlay 2
- AirPlay 2 now supports sharing videos, photos, music and more from your iPhone and iPad directly to your AirPlay 2-enabled smart TV
- One-tap playback automatically plays your chosen TV show or movie on the last screen you used based on time and location
- Siri Suggestions to watch movies and TV shows now include an option to AirPlay
- Intelligent suggestions are all done on-device so your personal information stays private
Additional Updates
The iOS 12.3 update also includes bug fixes and improvements, solves problems with the Apple TV Remote, and adds the ability to follow a magazine from the Apple News+ catalog browsing view.
- Adds the ability to follow a magazine from the Apple News+ catalog browsing view
- Apple Music’s For You tab now updates multiple times a day suggesting music based on themes like genres, artists, and moods you love
- Fixes an issue that could prevent Apple TV Remote from pausing video, controlling video, or changing volume on supported receivers
- Addresses an issue that could cause calls made using Wi-Fi calling to drop
- Fixes an issue where song information from a connected iPhone may not appear in a car’s display
