Apple releases sixth developer beta for tvOS 16

Apple has issued a sixth beta of tvOS 16 to developer testers, with the latest build now downloadable to participating Apple TVs.

The newest builds can be downloaded via the Apple Developer Center for those enrolled into the test program, or via an over-the-air update on devices running the beta software. Public betas typically arrive within a few days of the developer versions, via the Apple Beta Software Program website.

The sixth replaces the fifth beta from August 8, while the fourth beta of tvOS 16 landed on July 27. Apple's third beta of tvOS 16 was distributed to testers on July 6.

The second beta landed on June 22, while the first appeared after the watchOS 9 were introduced shortly after the WWDC keynote on June 6.

Final public versions of all of Apple's milestone operating systems are expected to be released by the fall.

The sixth tvOS 16 beta is build number 20J5366a, replacing the fifth, build 20J5355f.

While Apple didn't directly reference tvOS 16 during WWDC itself, there are still a number of improvements in the set-top box's operating system. Matter support for HomeKit, HDR 10+ format support, a new Remote Control app, Nintendo Switch controller support, and other UI refinements are on the way.

The new beta is also available for HomePods participating in the closed AppleSeed beta program.

AppleInsider, and Apple itself, strongly recommend users don't install the betas on to "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the remote possibility of data loss or other issues. Instead, testers should install betas onto secondary or non-essential devices, and to make sure there are sufficient backups of important data before updating.

Find any changes in the new betas? Reach out to us on Twitter at @AppleInsider or @Andrew_OSU, or send Andrew an email at andrew@AppleInsider.com.