Summary of Apple's 'Audio & Home' including new features of AirPods that allow you to say 'yes' or 'no' just by shaking your head and updates to tvOS 18

At Apple's annual developer conference, WWDC24 , held on June 11, 2024 (Japan time), features to be added to the wireless earphones AirPods and the Apple TV 4K OS tvOS 18 were announced.

Apple Event - Apple (Japan)
https://www.apple.com/jp/apple-events/

AirPods introduce convenient ways to communicate and control - Apple (UK)
https://www.apple.com/jp/newsroom/2024/06/airpods-introduce-convenient-ways-to-communicate-and-interact/

Updated Home experience for better entertainment and convenience - Apple (UK)
https://www.apple.com/jp/newsroom/2024/06/updates-to-the-home-experience-elevate-entertainment-and-bring-more-convenience/

Until now, AirPods could be controlled using voice recognition with Siri.

It will also be possible to use gestures to nod and shake your head to mean 'yes' and 'no,' respectively. This will allow you to respond to Siri's questions even in situations where it is difficult to speak, and to answer calls even if your hands are full.

In addition, a new function called 'Voice Isolation' will be added, which will separate the wearer's voice and transmit it to the other person.

Voice Isolation minimizes background noise and picks up only the voice you are speaking, ensuring your voice is heard even in noisy environments.

The Personalized Spatial Audio API is an API that allows developers to use spatial audio, and is intended for use in games.

'Need for Speed Mobile' by Tencent Games and Electric Arts already supports spatial audio.

Need for Speed Mobile will be released in Fall 2024.

Then, tvOS 18, the operating system for Apple TV 4K, was announced.

One of the major updates in tvOS 18 is 'InSight.'

InSight displays real-time, on-screen information about actors, characters and music featured in Apple TV+ movies and shows.

You can also view InSight information on your iPhone when using it as an Apple TV remote.

Another big update is Dialogue Enhancement, which uses machine learning and computational audio to make speech sound clearer over music, action, and background noise on Apple TV 4K. Dialogue Enhancement is available when listening on HomePod, TV's built-in or HDMI-connected speakers, AirPods, other Bluetooth-connected devices, or when playing compatible content on iPhone or iPad.

Additionally, in tvOS 18, subtitles will automatically appear at the optimal time.

It also supports output from tvOS 18 to a 21:9 projector.

It also has a screensaver function that allows you to use your own photos.

Additionally, screensavers featuring animations of popular characters Snoopy and Woodstock from the comic strip 'Peanuts' will also be added.

Other features announced include the addition of spatial audio to AirPlay, support for the home app for robot vacuum cleaners, guest access in the home app, and hands-free unlocking with the home key.