Extensive code references to a quad-PiP (picture-in-picture) feature for the Apple TV app have been spotted in the latest 16.5 beta software.
'Multi-View' picture-in-picture would allow you to watch up to four simultaneous live streams on your TV screen.
It is apparently an extension of the current PiP feature supported by Apple TV but right now it seems to only be intended for the Apple TV app, possibly for live sport, as reported by 9to5Mac based on code references discovered by developer Steve Moser.
Not the actual feature but an illustration made by 9to5Mac
Apple currently holds the global rights to MLS (Major League Soccer) and rights to MLB Friday Night Baseball in 60 countries. Matches are available from within the Apple TV app which also supports live streaming from partners.
Some other apps on tvOS such as ESPN and Fubo already support quad-PiP.
9to5Mac notes that references to this 'Multi-View' feature have existing in the iOS codebase for a while but are more extensive in 16.5. Still, we may not see the new feature in tvOS 16.5 that is currently in beta, as it is possible Apple is saving it for tvOS 17 that will likely be announced at WWDC 17 this summer – or another future release.
- Source: Steve Moser, 9to5Mac