New Apple TV App Features in iOS 15

With the release of iOS 15, Apple introduced significant interface enhancements to the Apple TV app, focusing primarily on social discovery, shared experiences, and streamlined playback controls. This guide outlines the key user interface updates integrated into the mobile app, including the "Shared with You" shelf, SharePlay support, and player control refinements.

"Shared with You" Shelf

The most prominent interface addition on the "Watch Now" tab is the "Shared with You" row. When friends or family share links to movies, TV shows, or Apple TV+ originals through the Messages app, the media automatically populates in this dedicated carousel. The interface displays who sent the recommendation alongside the poster art, and tapping the sender's name opens a prompt allowing users to reply directly within Messages without leaving the Apple TV app.

SharePlay Integration

iOS 15 integrated SharePlay directly into the Apple TV app UI. During a FaceTime call, users can launch the Apple TV app and stream synchronized content together. The interface adapts by providing shared playback controls, allowing any participant in the call to pause, play, rewind, or fast-forward. The video player automatically balances dynamic volume levels so users can hear both the conversation and the media audio simultaneously.

Redesigned Video Player Controls

The native media playback interface received several usability updates:

  • Audio and Subtitle Selection: The audio and caption settings menu was redesigned into a cleaner, more legible popover menu, making it easier to switch languages or enable closed captions.
  • Streamlined Scrubbing: The progress bar and scrubbing controls were refined for better touch accuracy on iPhone and iPad screens.
  • Quick Access Icons: Dedicated controls for Picture-in-Picture (PiP) and AirPlay routing were repositioned for faster access during full-screen playback.

Enhanced "Up Next" and Service Badging

The interface improved visual indicators across the "Watch Now" and "Store" tabs. Streaming provider badges were made clearer, allowing users to see at a glance whether a title is available through an existing subscription channel, a connected third-party app, or requires a separate purchase or rental.