First look: Apple adds voice dictation to latest Apple TV with tvOS 9.2 beta 3

This week's release of tvOS 9.2 beta 3 further addresses the device's text input shortcomings, giving users the ability to enter words using their voice, rather than the onscreen keyboard.

The latest beta of tvOS 9.2 adds dictation support to text entry fields when using the set top box. When given the option to enter text, simply press and hold the Siri button on the remote and speak your query.

In addition, tvOS 9.2 also gives users the ability to search the tvOS App Store from anywhere with the Siri Remote. Simply hold the Siri button and tell the device to "search the App Store" for your desired content.

The latest addition in tvOS 9.2 beta 3 joins improvements from earlier betas that were also focused on text entry. Specifically, earlier tvOS builds added support for Bluetooth keyboards as well.

tvOS 9.2 will also bring users the ability to group home screen apps into folders. It also features an improved app switcher, and support for iCloud Photo Library.

There is no public beta program for tvOS 9.2, meaning the software is only available for developers to test. It must be installed on an Apple TV via a USB-C cable.

16 Comments

SpamSandwich 19 Years · 32917 comments

About 8 years ago

This really needs to be part of any and all Apple TV models currently in use.

boeyc15 14 Years · 986 comments

Siri search on Apple TV. Im sure someone will like/ find it handy. As much as everyone poo-poo's it, I would like web pages to be displayed. Could they make a Safari browser app?

Eg--

Siri - Show the local wx radar.

Siri- Wiki of George Washington

I also would like a 'darker' background color. Im watching a TV show/movie or play game or what ever, it ends and returns to the --- BAAMMM-- hit with the white(well brite) screen of Apple TV. It needs the new iOS 'twilight' mode or what ever they call it. But ... it is pretty!

Another thing to consider --- PIP with apps. More like separate windows to view side by side. Would come in handy for some use cases

bobcubsfan 11 Years · 54 comments

Developers can update software directly from Apple TV without a USB cable.

redraider11 9 Years · 186 comments

boeyc15 said:

Siri search on Apple TV. Im sure someone will like/ find it handy. As much as everyone poo-poo's it, I would like web pages to be displayed. Could they make a Safari browser app?
Eg--
Siri - Show the local wx radar.
Siri- Wiki of George Washington
I also would like a 'darker' background color. Im watching a TV show/movie or play game or what ever, it ends and returns to the --- BAAMMM-- hit with the white(well brite) screen of Apple TV. It needs the new iOS 'twilight' mode or what ever they call it. But ... it is pretty!
Another thing to consider --- PIP with apps. More like separate windows to view side by side. Would come in handy for some use cases

I think there needs to be a safari app as well. For instance, Metallica live stream their "Too Heavy for Halftime" show on their website, so I had to pull it up on the iPad and AirPlay it over to Apple TV. It works fine, but kind of unescessary. Maybe it's just Apple's way of getting developers to create apps for the tv instead of taking the easy way out through internet links or whatever.

braderunner 10 Years · 53 comments

SpamSandwich said:

This really needs to be part of any and all Apple TV models currently in use.

Really! Why doesn't it work via the Remote app! Siri, as well!