iPadOS 18.2 beta: the Apple TV app adopts a customizable tab bar

The third beta of iOS 18.2, finally available, is also accompanied by the betad'iPadOSalso in version 18.2. The latter brings a little novelty which will certainly be appreciated by users of the Apple TV application:a fully customizable tab bar. An update that is entirely in line with the ergonomic improvements recently deployed by Apple for its tablets.

A new design inspired by tvOS

The interface redesign takes direct inspiration from the tvOS experience, with a sleek floating tab bar positioned at the top of the screen. This development is not simply aesthetic:it now offers real flexibility of use.

A long press on the bar will activate editing mode,allowing users to add their favorite sections. Channels, applications (Disney+, Max, Peacock), sections of the library (recent purchases, films) or even the Sports tab become accessible with just one tap. Quite practical.

However, a limitation remains: the default tabs, such as MLS (Major League Soccer),cannot be deleted. Apple has, in fact, entered into a partnership with MLS to exclusively broadcast matches from this championship via the MLS Season Pass service, accessible directly from the Apple TV app. Given this exclusive agreement and the importance given to this partnership, Apple has decided to integrate MLS as a default tab, in order to facilitate access for its subscribers. This perhaps explains why this bar will remain prominently displayed.

A gradual evolution of the iPad interface

This new customizable tab bar is part ofthe rare features exclusive to the iPadannounced at WWDC in June. Although it took Apple several months to make this promise a reality in the TV app, this wait could explain why few third-party apps already offer this feature.

Users who do not have access to the beta version will, however, have to wait.until mid-Decemberto discover these new features,with the public rollout of iPadOS 18.2. Only a few more weeks to wait, then.

• The iPadOS 18.2 beta introduces a customizable tab bar to the Apple TV app, inspired by tvOS.
• Users can add their favorite sections, although some default tabs like MLS remain fixed.
• The public rollout of iPadOS 18.2 is scheduled for December.