Apple’s September release of tvOS17 brought Apple TV users FaceTime and camera support, and now Apple TV 4K has access to Zoom as well.
Hybrid and remote workers can now take advantage of Zoom’s cross-platform gallery view and screen sharing on Apple TV 4K, though it is important to note that the Apple TV’s Zoom app listing is separate from the regular Zoom app, and is listed as ‘Zoom – for Home TV.’ Unfortunately, it still requires an iPhone or iPad for camera access, though it is speculated that Apple will soon be releasing TV models with an integrated camera.
Apple Vision Pro reportedly slated for a March release
Zoom and WebEx were both announced as ‘coming soon’ when tvOS17 was released, and with this latest update, users now just have WebEx to wait for to round out the Apple TV as a videoconferencing device.
“Webex makes hybrid work seamless, enabling collaboration from anywhere, at any time, simply. Soon, the Webex app will be available for download on the Apple TV App Store. After installing the Webex app on Apple TV 4K, users simply scan the QR code with iPhone for a seamless login experience. They can then take advantage of the big screen, whether it’s in your living room or the office,” reads Cisco’s announcement.
The following was originally published September 21, 2023:
Apple has officially launched tvOS 17 for Apple TVs, bringing with it a redesigned UI, a bevy of new features, and most notably, FaceTime and camera support.
Along with a visual refresh, the newest software version gives Apple TV users quality of life upgrades to more easily control connected devices, as well as access to VPN support, Apple Fitness+, Dolby Vision 8.1 support, Siri Remote Locator, and shared spatial audio.
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Aside from these upgrades, those who work remotely will most likely be focused on Apple TV 4K’s new FaceTime support, which comes with the first iteration of camera integration for the device. At the moment, it requires using the TV’s Continuity Camera support with an iPhone or iPad, but industry rumors point to an upcoming Apple TV model with an integrated camera to make videoconferencing even easier. Apple states that later this year, Webex by Cisco and Zoom will be making their way to the big screen as well.
Per Apple’s release:
“Users can make calls directly from Apple TV 4K, or start calls on iPhone or iPad, and hand them off to Apple TV 4K. FaceTime on Apple TV 4K takes advantage of Continuity Camera support to wirelessly connect to iPhone or iPad, and leverages the devices’ cameras and microphones to bring participants together on the TV. Later this year, new tvOS apps from Webex by Cisco and Zoom will take advantage of Continuity Camera and expand their communications capabilities to Apple TV 4K. ”
