In addition to iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS updates, Apple has released the latest version of tvOS. The main change this time is a redesign of the main Apple TV app.
You'll now see a sidebar that combines content from Apple's own services (like Apple TV+, MLS Season Pass, and a store where users can buy and rent popular movies) with access to third-party channels and apps like Disney+ and Max. It seems like Apple is aiming to improve navigation and visibility without straying too far from the industry-standard tiled navigation format on the home page.
On living room devices (i.e. Apple TV hardware and the app of the same name on smart TVs and other devices), the sidebar will include profiles. Apple says this will allow you to quickly switch between users for more personalized recommendations in the app and in the Next section. Meanwhile, Watch Now has been renamed Home.
The Store tab in the Apple TV app is where you'll want to go to buy or rent movies and TV shows. Starting today, the iTunes Movies and TV Shows apps on Apple TV 4K and HD devices will redirect users to the Store tab in the Apple TV app to find and manage their purchases. The same goes for the iTunes Store app on iPhone and iPad.
Meanwhile, you'll now be able to answer FaceTime calls directly on Apple TV 4K devices. Apple has also added support for FaceTime audio calls.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apple-tvos-172-has-a-redesigned-tv-experience-and-no-itunes-movies-or-tv-shows-apps-211732163 .html?src=rss
