Apple will today release tvOS 16.1 with new features such as a redesigned Siri user interface, "Hey Siri" support for AirPods, iCloud Shared Photo Library, and Matter.
Update 26.10.2022: tvOS 16.1 adds support for the wireless versions of the classic NES, SNES and Nintendo 64 controllers as well as the Sega Genesis controller. Siri will gain the ability to recognize who is talking in tvOS 16.2.
These are the new features in tvOS 16.1 that is rolling out to Apple TV HD and all three generations of Apple TV 4K on October 24, 2022 (10:00am PST, 7:00pm CET).
tvOS 16.1 – new features
In Apple's own words:
Siri redesign: All-new design for Siri makes it even easier to find movies and shows to watch, play the latest music, discover new apps, get sports scores, and more.
Hey Siri support for AirPods: When wearing AirPods, users can say “Hey Siri” to search and enjoy a hands-free way to control Apple TV.
Expanded Siri language support: Siri support on Apple TV has expanded to Chile, Finland, and South Africa, and will launch in Denmark, Luxembourg, and Singapore later this year, bringing Siri on Apple TV to 30 countries and regions.
Matter support: Apple TV 4K is also an essential building block for Matter, the new smart home connectivity standard that enables a wide variety of accessories to work together seamlessly across platforms, helping to fulfill the true vision of a smart home.
iCloud Shared Photo Library: With iCloud Shared Photo Library on Apple TV, everyone in the family will be able to enjoy everyone’s photos together on the big screen.Apple Fitness+: Work out and meditate with Apple Fitness+ on Apple TV – now all you need is iPhone to receive onscreen coaching, timers, and trainer callouts while also tracking your estimated Move ring progress.
Classic Nintendo controllers: tvOS 16.1 adds support for the wireless versions of the classic NES, SNES and Nintendo 64 controllers as well as the Sega Genesis controller. |
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New Siri user interface
Siri on Apple TV switches to a floating user interface (bottom-right corner) that uses the display's height to present TV show and movie results as well as relevant information.
Here are some of the things you ask Siri to do on Apple TV:
"Play Finding Nemo on Disney+
"Show me horror movies"
"Movies with Christian Bale"
"Find new movies in Dolby Atmos"
"Open Netflix"
"Open Sayonara Wild Hearts" (game)
"Find the best movies from the 80's"
"Turn up/down the volume" (requires HomePod or AirPlay 2 speakers connected to Apple TV)
"Fast forward four minutes"
"Play from the beginning"
"Turn on English subtitles"
"Where's my iPhone"
"What football games are on"
"Turn off the lights" (HomeKit)

Siri on Apple TV in tvOS 16.1 responding to "show me new releases". Photo: FlatpanelsHD
Hands-free "Hey Siri" could already control Apple TV via iPhone, iPad and HomePod and now also works with AirPods connected to Apple TV. In case you did not know, you can turn off Apple TV and the connected TV by saying "Hey Siri, turn off the Living Room TV". You can turn on your TV the same way.
With a later tvOS 16 update, Siri on Apple TV will be able recognize each user's voice to deliver personalized recommendations or watchlists.
Siri on Apple TV is currently available in these countries, regions, and languages: Australia (English), Austria (German), Belgium (Dutch, French), Brazil (Portuguese), Canada (English, French), France (French), Germany (German), Hong Kong (Cantonese), Korea (Korean), India (English), Ireland (English), Italy (Italian), Japan (Japanese), Mexico (Spanish), Netherlands (Dutch), New Zealand (English), Norway (Norwegian Bokmål), Russia (Russian), Spain (Spanish), Sweden (Swedish), Switzerland (French, German, Italian), Taiwan (Mandarin), UK (English), US (English, Spanish).
Siri is also launching in Chile, Finland, and South Africa, and will launch in Denmark, Luxembourg, and Singapore later this year.

Siri on Apple TV in tvOS 16.1 showing weather information. Photo: FlatpanelsHD