Apple has released tvOS 16.5 for Apple TV and HomePod. It adds Thread 1.3.0 for Matter compatibility with any brand as well as Multiview for MLS and NFL.

Only the three Apple TV 4K boxes support the new Multiview feature, which is available from within the Apple TV app.

- "Today, Apple launched the multiview feature on Apple TV 4K, allowing sports fans the ability to watch up to four simultaneous streams, including Major League Soccer matches, 'Friday Night Baseball' games, and select MLS and MLB live shows," announced Apple.


 Multiview on Apple TV 4K. Photo: Apple

Multiview is customizable allowing users to watch two to four matches in split-screen view, and toggle between layouts.

Users can also freely control which source plays audio on Apple TV 4K, or quickly go back to full screen.


Thread 1.3.0 for Matter
In addition, Apple is quietly upgrading Thread in Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen and 3rd Gen) and HomePod (2nd Gen and mini) from version 1.2 to version 1.3.0, according to iClarified.

Thread 1.3.0 enables Thread-enabled Matter home devices (must also run Thread 1.3.0) from any brand to work with Thread Border Routers such as Apple TV 4K and HomePod, eliminating the need for an additional hub in the home.

In other words, Apple TV 4K and HomePod can act seamlessly as Matter home controllers via Thread, WiFi and Ethernet.

 Also read: Apple releases tvOS 16.3.3 with fix for Siri remote issues

Apple says that tvOS 16.5 is available now for Apple TV HD, Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini, and HomePod, but as noted the two new features are only compatible with select devices.

Thread 1.3.0 features
Seamless response across Matter devices: Thread 1.3.0 enables Matter devices to join users’ IP-based networks while enabling low power, long-range use cases. Matter end devices can use any certified Thread Border Router and work with all smart devices, making it easy for them to be added to a network, and allowing them to easily be joined to existing networks.

Seamless integration into existing network infrastructure: Thread Border Routers make it simple for Thread devices to be discovered and communicate with devices outside the Thread network because they appear like any other Wi-Fi device on the network. They can be reached via IP and can discover services using mDNS. Like Wi-Fi access points, Thread Border Routers are unique as they can be built into existing devices from any company minimizing the need for additional dedicated hardware.

Simplified in-field firmware updates: Makes it possible to quickly and automatically update firmware on Thread devices without impacting responsiveness of controls or timeliness of event delivery. Upgrading an installed device can be cumbersome; Thread 1.3 allows simultaneous firmware updates to all your Thread devices at the same time without sacrificing network performance.
 FlatpanelsHD
- Source: Apple, iClarified