What is TvOS?
tvOS is the operating system developed by Apple Inc. that runs on Apple TV devices. It was first released in September 2015 to power the fourth generation Apple TV.
tvOS provides the core interface and functionality for apps that run on Apple TV. This includes features like:
- A home screen to access and organize apps
- Integrated Siri voice assistant that allows voice commands and searches
- Access to the App Store to install third-party apps and games
- A media player for video, music, podcasts, and photos
- Integration with iTunes for media playback from a computer
- Support for third-party streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, etc.
tvOS is based on a variant of iOS, so it shares some components and design principles. But the interface is optimized for use on the television with a remote control. TvOS continues to receive regular software updates from Apple with new features and improvements.
Stremio, Kodi, Jellyfin, Android TV, Emby, Google TV, OSMC, Fire OS, Plasma Bigscreen, Tizen OS, webOS Open Source Edition are some alternatives to TvOS.