Thanks to the references seen in the iOS 16.5 code, Apple wants to bring a new experience that will surpass Picture-in-Picture with live sports broadcasts.
A feature that was missing from the iPhone, until iOS 14, is picture in picture. Help to display a video in a floating window while being able to navigate throughout the operating system. It’s already been a reality on the iPad for quite some time, and some Apple TV apps allow it as well. according to a line of code detected by Steve Moser, in the iOS 16.5 beta there are references to a “multiple view” for the Apple TV app
Picture-in-picture will be taken to the next level thanks to Apple TV
Those of Cupertino are considering offering a unique multimedia experience from their application on Apple TV. Everything seems to indicate that, given the recent additions to the sports catalog, they want the ability to see up to 4 live sports matches.
Not satisfied with MLS and MLB, Apple continues to negotiate more transmission deals to add the world’s top sports leagues. To give us an idea of what Apple wants to do with its app, just open ESPN or FuboTV (in the United States) to have the same experience. You can have a transmission of 4 different contents.
About the found line of code, the reference has been around for a long time in iOS but until the latest iOS 16.5 beta, more details are included. It will have a grid layout and will only be limited to 4 videos at a time.
A feature in development that is not guaranteed in the short term
We know that news that Apple is working on is not released immediately. This also applies to products in which prototypes are made and in the final stages they do not see the light of day. Something similar happens with software. No other reports of multi-view functionality beyond code found in iOS 16.5.
Code references will continue to increase but are not expected to be released anytime soon. Perhaps if Apple continues testing and they pass, it could be seen at some point in the iOS 17 update cycle.
The feature is intended for use on Apple TV for sports viewing. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be any additional video functionality for iPhone or iOS in general. For it to work, you will have to search for sports broadcasts and it will immediately ask you if you want to watch in full screen or in the new multiview mode. When you have 4 videos and you add a fifth, a small error message will appear.
Some details Steve Moser showed off on Twitter was a new sports news tab in the News app. Users who can access the application will be able to get news, scores and summaries of their favorite teams and general information on all sports leagues, especially those in the United States. Among the latest updates, tvOS 16.4 had minor improvements.
There is no doubt that Apple has the opportunity to evolve el Picture in Picture a grand levels.