TvOS

TvOS is an operating system developed by Apple Inc. specifically for the 4th generation and later of the Apple TV digital media player. It was announced on September 9, 2015, and launched on October 30, 2015. TvOS is based on the iOS operating system and is the primary OS used for all current Apple TVs.

History

The development of tvOS began in 2015 when Apple decided to revamp its Apple TV platform. The new operating system was announced at an Apple Special Event on September 9, 2015, and was released to the public on October 30, 2015. TvOS replaced the earlier software that ran on the third-generation Apple TV.

Features

TvOS includes a variety of features that allow users to navigate and control their Apple TV. These include:

• Siri: TvOS integrates Siri, Apple's voice recognition software, allowing users to search for content, control playback, and perform other functions using voice commands.
• App Store: TvOS introduced an App Store for the Apple TV, allowing third-party developers to create apps and games specifically for the TV platform.
• HomeKit: TvOS supports HomeKit, Apple's framework for home automation, allowing the Apple TV to function as a hub for controlling smart home devices.
• AirPlay: TvOS supports AirPlay, allowing users to stream content from their iOS or macOS devices to their Apple TV.

Development

Developers can create apps for tvOS using the tvOS SDK, which is included in Xcode. The tvOS SDK includes many of the same frameworks and technologies as iOS, but also includes additional features specific to the Apple TV, such as the focus engine for navigating with the Siri Remote.

See also

• iOS
• watchOS
• macOS