Apple TV gets better WiFi support in tvOS 15.4 update

MW
Mike Wheatley

Apple TV HD or 4K owners may be pleased to learn about the latest tvOS 15.4 update, which makes it easier to connect the devices to hotel room WiFi.

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The update makes it possible for Apple tvOS devices to connect to those networks that require additional sign-in steps, such as hotels and dormitories. In such places, users are required to connect to the network, then enter a user name and password.

To connect to those networks, Apple TV box owners will need to first download the latest software, and also have an iPhone with them to facilitate login. Unfortunately, an Android phone won’t do.

That’s a shame, because while the update in theory means Apple TV HD and 4K get the same functionality as streaming devices such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick and Roku Premiere, it can only be accessed by those who’re completely locked into Apple’s ecosystem of devices. Amazon and Roku’s devices on the other hand, work with Android phones as well as iPhones.

The requirement for an iPhone would also seemingly make hotels less likely to consider buying Apple TVs to use in their room, as doing so would exclude Android phone users. Then again, hotels are unlikely to be a major target market for Apple.

Also in the update, Apple said it has improved the “Up Next” feature on the Apple TV HD and 4K. From the default video player that’s used in Apple’s own apps as well as some third-party apps (but notable not Netflix or Amazon Prime Video), it’s now possible to pause or swipe up on the remote control during playback to see your queue of videos that are next in line to be played.

In addition, there are separate Up Next queues for Apple TV+ and various channels, in addition to the unified Up Next queue.

Finally, Apple said the AirPods spatial audio menu that’s accessed by holding down the Home button on the Apple TV control center has now been redesigned to make better use of the available space on screen.

Apple said the Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K devices can be updated to tvOS 15.4 via the settings menu now.