Transform your largest screens into powerful communication and entertainment hubs with new Continuity features for Apple TV and Mac. You can now use your iPhone or iPad as a high-quality webcam for FaceTime calls on your television, and even stream video and audio directly to your Mac as if it were an Apple TV. These updates leverage the power of the Apple ecosystem to create more versatile and seamless user experiences.
What's new
This release introduces three significant enhancements that deepen the integration between your Apple devices:
- Apple TV FaceTime Camera: Use your iPhone or iPad as a wireless camera and microphone for making and receiving FaceTime calls directly on your Apple TV. This feature also supports third-party video conferencing apps like Zoom and Webex.
- Mac as AirPlay Receiver: Your Mac can now act as an AirPlay destination. Stream video and audio content from your iPhone or iPad directly to your Mac's screen, just as you would with an Apple TV.
- Enhanced Apple TV Remote: For users who prefer tactile controls, you can now enable directional buttons on the iPhone and iPad's software remote. This replaces the default swipe gesture area with a traditional D-pad for more precise navigation.
How to use this feature
Using your Mac as an AirPlay receiver
- On your Mac, navigate to System Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff.
- Toggle the switch for AirPlay Receiver to the on position.
- On your iPhone or iPad, start playing video or audio content and tap the AirPlay icon.
- Select your Mac from the list of available devices to begin streaming.
Making FaceTime calls on Apple TV
- Open the FaceTime app on your Apple TV.
- Select your user profile. This will send a notification to your nearby, signed-in iPhone or iPad.
- On your device, tap Accept to use it as a Continuity Camera.
- Position your iPhone or iPad near the TV, and you can begin making calls on the big screen.
- On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Accessibility.
- Scroll down to the Accessories section and select Apple TV Remote.
- Toggle on Directional Buttons.
- The remote in Control Center will now display a D-pad instead of a swipe surface.
Key capabilities
- Large-Screen Video Calls: Experience FaceTime and other video calls on your TV, making conversations feel more natural and inclusive for groups.
- Instant Second Screen: Use your Mac as an impromptu display for sharing videos or presentations from your iPhone without needing an Apple TV.
- Precise Remote Control: Navigate menus, apps, and the timeline with greater accuracy using the new directional buttons, which mimic the feel of a physical remote.
Tips for getting the most out of this feature
For the best FaceTime results, consider using a MagSafe-compatible stand or mount to position your iPhone securely on top of or below your television. If multiple users are present, you can easily connect a different iPhone or iPad to the Apple TV by selecting Other... in the FaceTime app and scanning the on-screen QR code.
Summary
The new Apple TV and AirPlay features expand the functionality of your existing devices, turning them into more capable tools for both work and leisure. By allowing your Mac to receive AirPlay streams and enabling your iPhone to power FaceTime on your TV, Apple continues to build a deeply integrated ecosystem where your devices work together seamlessly. The addition of directional buttons also provides a welcome quality-of-life improvement for controlling your Apple TV.
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