Apple has officially released tvOS 18.5, and while it may appear as a low-key update at first glance, it brings some meaningful improvements for Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K users—especially those using Dolby Atmos sound systems. The update (build number 22L261) is now rolling out globally and is available for both Apple TV and HomePod devices.
Key Feature: Improved Wireless Audio Sync With Dolby Atmos
The standout enhancement in tvOS 18.5 is an overhaul to the Wireless Audio Sync system, which now officially supports Dolby Atmos. Previously, users streaming Atmos content via AirPlay or through HomePod setups occasionally encountered frustrating sync issues where audio lagged behind video—particularly noticeable during action scenes or dialogue-heavy content.
With tvOS 18.5, Apple’s Wireless Audio Sync tool can now align Dolby Atmos audio using your iPhone’s microphone to measure and calibrate latency. This significantly improves spatial audio performance and fixes many of the synchronization problems that previously disrupted viewing experiences.
To use this feature:
- Open your Apple TV and go to Settings > Video and Audio > Wireless Audio Sync
- Make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 18.5
- Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate audio timing
This sync upgrade is particularly useful for users with HomePods or third-party AirPlay speakers connected to Apple TV. With Dolby Atmos becoming increasingly common across Apple TV+ shows and blockbuster movies, better alignment means more immersive surround sound experiences.
Performance and Bug Fixes Under the Hood
Beyond audio syncing, tvOS 18.5 includes the usual round of performance improvements, stability updates, and security fixes—although Apple, in typical fashion, hasn’t detailed all the changes. However, early user reports suggest smoother navigation and fewer bugs during app switching and media playback.
Heads-Up: Some Settings May Reset
A small but important note: users on Reddit and Apple forums have noticed that certain settings—including:
- Match Frame Rate
- Match Dynamic Range
- Chroma Settings
…may reset to their default values after the update. If you’re particular about your display or audio settings, it’s worth heading back into the Settings menu and reapplying your preferences.
HomePod Also Updated
If you own a HomePod or HomePod mini, tvOS 18.5 also includes updates under the hood for those devices. While no new features have been advertised, it’s common for these updates to improve audio responsiveness and reliability when used in conjunction with Apple TV or as part of a stereo pair.
tvOS 18.5 might not deliver flashy UI overhauls or new apps, but the Dolby Atmos Wireless Audio Sync fix alone is a major win for home theater enthusiasts. It shows Apple is still fine-tuning the Apple TV ecosystem to deliver better performance and polish—especially for users who depend on seamless AV playback.
Key Takeaways
- Apple’s tvOS 18.5 focuses on performance enhancements and bug fixes rather than new features.
- The update is available for both Apple TV and HomePod devices with the same build number.
- Regular updates like this one help maintain device stability and smooth operation of existing features.
Key Features and Improvements in tvOS 18.5
Apple’s latest update brings several quality-of-life improvements to Apple TV devices. The tvOS 18.5 update focuses on enhancing stability while adding useful features that make daily use more enjoyable.
Notable New Features
The tvOS 18.5 update adds some helpful new tools to the Apple TV experience. Users can now access Control Center more quickly with a new shortcut option from the main menu. This makes it easier to switch audio outputs or check HomeKit devices.
A new picture-in-picture mode lets viewers watch two shows at once. Sports fans will find this especially useful during big game days when multiple matches happen simultaneously.
Siri gets smarter with better show recommendations based on your viewing habits. The voice assistant can now understand more complex requests like “Show me comedy movies I haven’t watched yet” or “Find TV shows about cooking.”
The Photos app receives a refresh with improved sharing features. Users can now create and display photo slideshows more easily on their TV screens with customizable transitions.
Bug Fixes and Stability Enhancements
Apple has fixed several annoying bugs that affected previous versions. The random audio dropouts some users experienced when streaming 4K content have been addressed in this update.
The software update fixes the issue where some apps would crash when resuming from sleep mode. This was particularly troublesome for video streaming services.
Important security patches are included, fixing six vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to gain system access. Apple recommends all users update to protect their devices.
Memory management improvements make the interface feel snappier, especially when switching between apps. Apps now load faster and run more smoothly even on older Apple TV models.
User Experience Upgrades
The tvOS 18.5 update brings a cleaner, more responsive interface. Menu animations are smoother, and text is easier to read thanks to improved font rendering.
Search functionality works better with faster, more accurate results. The system now remembers recent searches and offers smarter suggestions based on your viewing history.
A new “Recently Watched” row appears on the home screen, making it easier to jump back into shows you’re currently enjoying. This feature works across multiple streaming apps.
Battery life for the Siri Remote has been improved through better power management. Apple claims users will get about 30% more usage time between charges.
The update process itself is more streamlined, with clearer progress indicators and faster installation times compared to previous versions.
tvOS 18.5 Compatibility and Related Updates
Apple’s latest update brings important changes to the Apple TV ecosystem. The tvOS 18.5 update works across various devices and connects with other Apple products for a better user experience.
Supported Devices and System Requirements
The tvOS 18.5 update is compatible with Apple TV 4K (all generations) and Apple TV HD. Users need at least 3GB of free storage space to install the update smoothly.
Older Apple TV devices (3rd generation and earlier) cannot receive this update as they run different software systems.
The minimum internet requirements for downloading tvOS 18.5 are a stable broadband connection with speeds of at least 5Mbps. This ensures the update installs properly without interruptions.
For the best experience with new features, Apple recommends:
- HDMI 2.1 compatible TV (for highest resolutions)
- 5.1 or Dolby Atmos compatible sound system
- iCloud account with two-factor authentication
Integration With Other Apple Platforms
tvOS 18.5 works better with the latest updates on other Apple devices. It pairs with iOS 18.5 on iPhone and iPad, making content sharing easier.
Users can control their Apple TV directly from their iPhone’s Control Center with improved remote functions. The update also supports automatic AirPods connection when watching TV.
Vision Pro owners using visionOS 2.5 can stream content from Apple TV to their headset with improved picture quality. macOS 15.5 users benefit from better AirPlay performance when sending content to Apple TV.
Apple Watch users can now:
- Use their watch as a remote control
- Receive notifications about shows
- Control playback without interrupting workouts
Update Process and Beta Releases
Updating to tvOS 18.5 is simple. Users can go to Settings > System > Software Updates and select “Update Software.” The update takes about 15-20 minutes to complete.
Apple released several beta versions before the final launch. The tvOS 18.5 beta 4 fixed many bugs from earlier versions. Developers used the SDK bundled with Xcode 16.4 to test their apps.
The public beta program allowed regular users to try the update early. This helped Apple find and fix problems before the official release.
Important update notes:
- Backup: No manual backup needed (settings save automatically)
- During update: Apple TV will restart several times
- Internet: Must stay connected during entire process
- Apps: All apps must be updated after installing tvOS 18.5
Release Timeline and Prior Versions
Apple released the tvOS 18.5 RC (Release Candidate) on May 5, 2025, just one week before the final launch. The first beta appeared in March 2025, with four beta versions released over two months.
tvOS 18.4.1 came out in April 2025 as a minor security update. The larger tvOS 18.4 update launched in March with HomeKit improvements and bug fixes.
The original tvOS 18 was announced at WWDC 2024 last June and released in September 2024. Apple typically keeps a regular update schedule with:
- Major updates: Every September (full version number)
- Feature updates: Every 6-8 weeks (.x updates)
- Security fixes: As needed (.x.x updates)
Apple will likely start testing tvOS 19 next month after announcing it at WWDC 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple’s tvOS 18.5 brings several improvements to Apple TV devices along with enhanced security features and better integration with other Apple products.
What are the new features included in the latest tvOS 18.5 update?
The tvOS 18.5 update includes minor performance improvements and bug fixes for Apple TV users. While this update doesn’t introduce major new features, it does enhance overall system stability.
Apple hasn’t highlighted specific new features in this release, suggesting it’s primarily a maintenance update. Some users on Reddit have discussed whether Apple has abandoned the Foundation screen saver for Apple TV.
How do I download and install the tvOS 18.5 update on my device?
Updating to tvOS 18.5 is simple. Users can go to the Settings app on their Apple TV, select System, then Software Update, and choose Update Software to begin the installation process.
According to MacRumors, the update can be downloaded directly through the Apple TV settings menu. AppleInsider also confirms these same steps for updating.
The process typically takes a few minutes, and your Apple TV may restart during the update.
Are there any known issues or bugs with tvOS 18.5 that users should be aware of before updating?
No major bugs or issues have been reported with tvOS 18.5 so far. The update appears to be stable for most users.
Apple typically tests updates thoroughly before public release, which helps minimize problems. If any issues do arise, Apple will likely address them in future updates.
Is tvOS 18.5 compatible with all Apple TV models?
The tvOS 18.5 update is compatible with Apple TV HD (4th generation) and all Apple TV 4K models. Older Apple TV models that run the older Apple TV Software (not tvOS) cannot receive this update.
Users with compatible devices can update without concerns about compatibility issues. The update is designed to work smoothly across all supported models.
What security improvements have been made in the tvOS 18.5 update?
Apple has included important security fixes in tvOS 18.5. According to Apple’s security releases page, this update is part of their ongoing security improvements across all platforms.
While specific security fixes aren’t detailed in the search results, Apple regularly patches vulnerabilities in each update. These improvements help protect user data and privacy.
How does the tvOS 18.5 update impact integration with HomePod and other Apple devices?
The tvOS 18.5 update was released alongside a HomePod software update, improving the integration between these devices.
This parallel update suggests enhanced compatibility between Apple TV and HomePod devices. The same-day release of iOS 18.5 also points to improved ecosystem connectivity across Apple’s platforms.
Users may experience smoother control of HomePod devices through Apple TV after this update.
