CUPERTINO - Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL). announced that its upcoming tvOS 18 will introduce new features aimed at enhancing the home entertainment experience. The software update, expected to be released in the fall, will include InSight, a real-time information display about actors, characters, and music during Apple TV+ shows and movies. Enhance Dialogue and subtitles will also be updated to improve clarity and convenience for viewers.
InSight will allow users to access background information and filmographies for actors, as well as identify and add songs to an Apple Music playlist directly from the scene they are watching. This feature will also be accessible on iPhones when used as a remote for Apple TV.
The Enhance Dialogue feature is getting smarter with the use of machine learning and computational audio to separate voices from background noise, benefiting users across various devices, including HDMI-connected speakers and Bluetooth devices, as well as on the iPhone and iPad.
Subtitles have been improved to automatically appear in certain situations, such as when the audio language differs from the device language, the volume is muted, or when a scene is replayed. Additionally, tvOS 18 will support 21:9 aspect ratio for projectors and introduce new screen savers.
Apple's services are also getting updates; HomePod and HomePod mini will support SharePlay for Apple Music, allowing users to join sessions and control playback without a subscription. FaceTime will offer Live Captions in English for the U.S. and Canada, and Apple Fitness+ is being redesigned with new features to help users stay motivated.
The Home app, with iOS 18, will bring guest access for home automation, hands-free unlocking with home keys, and a partnership with Pacific Gas & Electric Company to help Californian users monitor their electricity usage. The app will also support robot vacuum cleaners and add Spatial Audio via AirPlay, enhancing the audio streaming experience to HomePod and other compatible devices.
The developer betas for tvOS 18, iOS 18, and HomePod software version 18 are available now, with public betas expected next month. While the features are subject to change and may not be available in all regions or languages, the updates will be free for users starting this fall. This information is based on a press release statement from Apple Inc.
In other recent news, Apple Inc. announced the expansion of its Apple Vision Pro to several new markets, with pre-orders starting in various countries including China, Japan, and Singapore. The device, powered by visionOS, offers features like eye movement interaction, hand gestures, and voice commands, contributing to a transformative user experience. Furthermore, Apple's Vision Pro will be available with over 2,000 apps designed to maximize its capabilities.
Meanwhile, UBS maintained a neutral rating for Apple's stock, reflecting consumer concerns over GenAI technology. High costs and privacy concerns were noted as factors tempering enthusiasm for GenAI in markets outside China. DA Davidson and Citi, however, have maintained neutral and buy ratings respectively, recognizing Apple's potential in the AI landscape and commitment to user privacy.
Apple has also introduced a new AI-focused chip in its latest iPad Pro models, and plans to use its own chips in data centers for the first time. This move could enable more advanced AI features without reliance on costly processors from Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA). Despite the competitive landscape, Apple continues to lead as the most valuable U.S. brand in 2024, with a brand value of $516.58 billion. These are the recent developments concerning Apple Inc.
InvestingPro Insights
As Apple Inc. gears up to roll out its tvOS 18 with a host of new features, InvestingPro data shows a company that continues to be a dominant force in the technology sector. With a staggering market cap of $2.98 trillion USD and a robust gross profit margin of 45.59% over the last twelve months as of Q2 2024, Apple's financial health remains solid. The company's commitment to shareholder returns is evident, as it has raised its dividend for an impressive 12 consecutive years, reflecting a dividend growth of 8.7% during the same period.
InvestingPro Tips suggest that while Apple's stock is currently trading at a high P/E ratio of 30.37, indicating a premium valuation relative to near-term earnings growth, it remains a prominent player in the Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals industry. This is further supported by the company's strong return over the last three months, with a 15.48% price total return, showcasing its market resilience.
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