Introduction:

Apple has recently launched the first beta version of iOS 16.2 for developers, bringing overall improvements and some new features to the operating system. Alongside iOS 16.2, the company has also released tvOS 16.2 beta, which introduces a significant enhancement for Apple TV users — multi-user voice recognition when using Siri.

Siri Voice Recognition on Apple TV

The tvOS 16.2 beta update includes a long-awaited feature — multi-user voice recognition for Siri. This functionality has been available on the HomePod, allowing the smart speaker to identify the voices of different users and provide personalized responses based on individual data.

With this update, Siri on Apple TV can now differentiate between different user profiles. As users interact with the virtual assistant, it can switch profiles, play songs, and offer recommendations based on the user’s voice. Additionally, tvOS can associate the voice profile of a user’s iPhone to automatically recognize their voice on the Apple TV and any other Siri-enabled devices in their home.

Image by: https://support.apple.com/

Initial Observations on tvOS 16.2 Beta

While the beta version introduces the much-anticipated multi-user voice recognition feature, some users have noted that the functionality “doesn’t seem to be fully functional” in this beta release. However, this is not uncommon for beta versions, and Apple has plenty of time to address any issues before the public release of tvOS 16.2.

Redesigned Siri Interface on Apple TV

In tvOS 16.1, Apple introduced a revamped Siri interface for Apple TV, aligning it more closely with the design found on iPhones and iPads. The new interface offers a compact design with enhanced animations. This redesign is carried over to the tvOS 16.2 beta as well.

Apple describes the redesigned Siri interface as follows: “Siri on Apple TV features a complete redesign, and will be able to recognize each user’s voice, so they can easily access their movies, shows, music, games, and apps, and pick up where they left off.”

The new interface empowers users to ask Siri questions like “What should I watch?” and receive tailored recommendations, all without leaving the onscreen action.

Release Date and Additional Beta Testing

As of now, Apple has not specified a release date for tvOS 16.2 to the general public. However, it is likely to be launched by the end of the year. Besides tvOS 16.2, Apple is also testing iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2, which come with a new HomeKit architecture, Live Activities improvements, and external display support with Stage Manager for iPad users.

Apple enthusiasts and developers can look forward to these exciting updates and features, as they promise to enhance the overall user experience and productivity across Apple devices. With each beta iteration, Apple fine-tunes its software to ensure a reliable and optimized experience for all users. Stay tuned for further developments and news about Apple’s software updates.