Apple will soon release tvOS 17.4, which brings back the 4K indicators for rented and purchased movies in the Apple TV app. The update will also let you collaborate on Apple Music playlists.
Update: The SharePlay feature has been removed in the later tvOS 17.4 betas.
The redesigned Apple TV app in tvOS 17.2 brought about improved navigation. However, a significant user complaint has been that it is not possible to determine the video and audio quality of purchased or rented movies from Apple when the same movie is also available through another service that integrates with the Apple TV app, as the video and audio indicators refer to the external partner service.
Previously, users could confirm this information through the iTunes app but the iTunes app ceased to function following the tvOS 17.2 update.
If the movie is only available on the Apple TV app, everything works as intended.
tvOS 17.4 fixes it, sort of
Apple has responded to user complaints by implementing a change in the Apple TV app with the first tvOS 17.4 beta. This change reinstates the 4K indicators for movies available for purchase and rent.
If you roll down to the 'How to Watch' section under a movie, you will find small 4K indicators on the buy and rent icons. Clicking either icon provides confirmation of audio quality, including Dolby Atmos. However, there are still no indicators for HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision.
Notice the small 4K indicators in the redesigned 'How to Watch' section in the Apple TV app. Photo: FlatpanelsHD
Click the button and audio quality will be shown too – just not HDR format. Apple TV app. Photo: FlatpanelsHD
It is not the most elegant solution but at least it works.
You can also check which movies are available in 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos in FlatpanelsHD's 4K movie database here.
Collaborative Apple Music playlists
Another new feature in tvOS 17.4, both Apple TV and HomePod, is the introduction of collaborative playlists in Apple Music. This can be useful during parties or just if multiple people want to add tracks to a playlist at any time. Only the creator of the playlist needs an active Apple Music subscription.
It works by opening the Apple Music app on Apple TV and clicking the SharePlay icon to reveal a QR code that must be scanned with an iPhone or Android. Additional devices can be added for everyone to contribute to and curate the playlist.
tvOS 17.4 will be released in March.
