Apple has released software updates for its two home products, Apple TV 4K and HomePod. tvOS 18.1 and HomePod 18.1 are now available for download. Here’s what to expect.

The Apple TV app adds a new Watchlist feature

Overall, there isn’t much new in today’s tvOS and HomePod updates. Instead, they focus primarily on bug fixes and performance improvements.

However, there is one notable change coming to Apple’s TV app in tvOS 18.1.

Next, the queue that keeps track of things you’re currently watching and have saved for later viewing is getting a name change to “Continue Watching.”

More importantly, the app adds a new Watchlist section that includes some items from Continue Watching.

Essentially, you can expect Continue Watching and Watchlist to work the same as similar lists in an app like Netflix. One is used to continue previously started programs and films, the other is used for saved selections.

However, Apple’s system works a little differently. Continue Watching still contains everything that came before in its Up Next era. Everything you’re currently watching, as well as all the shows and movies you’ve saved, is available there.

However, the watchlist only contains the latter saved items. So you won’t watch any TV shows or movies you’ve already started. Only the ones you’ve never seen before.

If your Keep Watching section has become too crowded, you may also benefit from a new, dedicated watchlist. Overall, though, it seems like an odd addition.

Today’s software update releases

Apple today released a series of software updates alongside these home-focused versions.

Here are all of today’s updates:

• iOS 18.1
• iPadOS 18.1
• macOS Sequoia 15.1
• visionOS 2.1
• watchOS 11.1
• tvOS 18.1
• HomePod 18.1

The first three items on the list are the most exciting as they introduce the first wave of Apple Intelligence features. With the focus on the debut of AI, Apple’s non-AI platforms don’t have much to offer in the way of new features this time around.

What do you think of the new watchlist in the TV app? Let us know in the comments.

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