Apple has recently released a new developer beta for tvOS 18, the software that runs on Apple TV devices, which provides a first look at a major new feature called InSight. This feature is designed to provide users with quick and easy access to information about the actors and songs featured in a movie or show. InSight is similar to Amazon Prime Video’s X-Ray feature, which provides users with similar information, but with a more sleek and modern design.
When a user pauses a movie or show, they can access InSight by pressing the pause button or using the remote control’s menu button. InSight will then display a list of thumbnails of the actors currently on screen, along with their real names and character names. Users can then click on a thumbnail to access more information about the actor, including their film and television credits, as well as any additional roles they may have had, such as writing or producing. For example, if a user clicks on Ted Lasso’s Brett Goldstein, they may see thumbnails of his movies and TV shows, as well as links to his work as a writer and producer.
One of the standout features of InSight is its ability to link users to music that is playing on screen. When a user clicks on a music thumbnail, it will add the song to a “Saved Songs” playlist in Apple Music, rather than automatically opening the song. This allows users to easily access the music they want to listen to, while also avoiding any potential copyright issues.
Another clever aspect of InSight is its ability to link users to related content that is available on other platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, or Plex. This means that users will be able to access a wider range of content, without having to leave the TV app or sign up for multiple streaming services. However, it is worth noting that this feature may not work with content that is only available on Netflix, which has historically been a holdout in terms of compatibility with Apple’s TV app.
Apple reveals InSight Feature for tvOS 18
InSight is currently only available in the tvOS 18 developer beta, so users will have to wait until the feature is rolled out to the general public before they can try it out. However, early impressions are promising, and it seems that Apple has done a great job of creating a feature that is both useful and easy to use.
In terms of potential drawbacks, one could argue that InSight may not be as necessary or exciting as some of the other features that Apple has rolled out in the past. However, it is worth noting that InSight is designed to be a subtle feature that is meant to enhance the viewing experience, rather than being a major overhaul of the TV app. Additionally, InSight’s ability to link users to related content and music could make it a major selling point for the TV app, particularly for users who are looking for a one-stop-shop for all of their streaming needs.
Apple’s InSight feature is an exciting development for the TV app, and it will be interesting to see how it is received by users once it is released to the general public. With its ability to provide users with quick and easy access to information about the actors and songs featured in a movie or show, InSight has the potential to make the TV app a must-have for anyone who loves streaming content.
