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Apple TV 4K has useful controls that are easy to overlook, from a Siri command that rewinds and turns on subtitles to calibration tools, FaceTime, and an iPhone microphone for karaoke. Availability depends on your Apple TV model, tvOS version, region, content, and—in some cases—a compatible iPhone, iPad, or subscription. Here are ten features to try, grouped by what you want to do.
Make dialogue and subtitles easier to follow
1. Ask Siri, “What did she just say?”
While a show or film is playing, say “What did she just say?” Apple documents that Apple TV skips back 10 seconds and temporarily turns subtitles on. You can also ask Siri to turn on closed captioning, choose subtitles in a language such as French, or skip forward by a specified interval. Siri commands and languages vary by region. See Apple’s Siri playback instructions.
2. Make speech stand out with Enhance Dialogue
During playback, open Audio Options and select Enhance Dialogue if it is available. Apple describes this setting as a way to make speech clearer over background sounds. Depending on the tvOS version and audio setup, stronger processing options may also appear; they can change the original mix. Apple notes support for Enhance Dialogue with HomePod (2nd generation) and Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later). See Apple’s audio settings guide and software update notes.
3. Reduce the impact of loud effects
For late-night viewing, try Reduce Loud Sounds in Audio Options. It reduces dynamic range, so loud music and effects have less relative impact. The result can vary with the program and audio equipment; it is not a promise that every mix will sound the same at a lower volume. Apple’s audio settings guide explains the option.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K High Dynamic Range (Dolby Vision and HDR10) for stunning picture quality
- Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound
- A10X Fusion chip for ultra-fast graphics and performance
- Voice search by asking the Siri Remote
Improve picture setup
4. Calibrate color with an iPhone
Color Balance uses an iPhone’s sensors to help adjust Apple TV’s video output. On Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Calibration > Color Balance, then follow the on-screen instructions with an iPhone that has Face ID and runs iOS 14.5 or later. This is a calibration aid, not a replacement for professional display calibration. Follow Apple’s calibration instructions for setup details.
5. Check whether the TV is cropping or stretching the picture
In the same Calibration area, use Zoom and Overscan to display a reference image. It can help reveal cropped edges or a picture that looks stretched. If the framing is wrong, you may also need to change the television’s own zoom or picture-size setting; Apple TV’s reference screen does not necessarily correct the TV’s processing by itself. Apple describes the calibration tools in its video and audio calibration guide.
Rank #2
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
Use Apple TV for calls and shared viewing
6. Make a FaceTime call on the television
Apple documents FaceTime on Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later) using Continuity Camera with a compatible iPhone or iPad. The companion device supplies the camera and must be set up for the feature. During a call, Center Stage can help keep people framed; supported gestures can trigger reactions. Split View can put a FaceTime call beside SharePlay viewing. Exact availability depends on the device, software, and region. See Apple’s Apple TV software update notes.
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7. Look up details about an Apple TV+ show with InSight
While watching a supported Apple Original, swipe down during playback to open InSight and see information about actors or music in the scene. Apple says InSight requires an Apple TV+ subscription, and it applies to Apple TV+ films and shows rather than every video in the TV app. Feature availability can depend on tvOS and region. Details are in Apple’s software update notes.
Rank #3
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Find the remote and personalize the idle screen
8. Find a nearby Siri Remote with your iPhone
If you have a Siri Remote (2nd generation or later), you can use the Apple TV Remote in iPhone Control Centre to locate a nearby remote. Open Control Centre, tap the Apple TV Remote, and use its remote-finding control if shown. Apple’s documentation does not extend this feature to every remote generation. See the tvOS update notes.
9. Use Memories or Portraits as a screen saver
Apple’s release notes document Memories and Portraits screen saver options on Apple TV 4K (2nd generation or later). The photos or portraits you can show depend on your photo setup, current software, and available screen saver choices. Check the Screen Saver settings on Apple TV to see what is offered for your device. Apple lists the feature in its software update notes.
Rank #4
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Turn Apple Music Sing into a group activity
10. Use an iPhone as a karaoke microphone
Apple’s tvOS 26 guide documents an iPhone microphone feature for Apple Music Sing on Apple TV 4K (3rd generation), with an iPhone running iOS 26 or later. Friends can join in by queuing songs and triggering on-screen reactions. This is a specific Music Sing feature, not a general-purpose microphone input; access also depends on Apple Music Sing’s catalog, service, and regional availability. See the Apple TV 4K User Guide for tvOS 26 and Apple’s software update notes.
Check compatibility before troubleshooting
If a control or menu is missing, first check your Apple TV generation and tvOS version, then confirm whether the feature needs a companion device, subscription, supported content, or particular audio equipment. Apple cautions that not all features and content are available on every model or in every region. The tvOS 26 user guide and Apple TV software update history identify the documented requirements for these features.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Dolby Atmos for immersive, room-filling sound - 4K High Frame Rate HDR with Dolby Vision for fluid, crisp video
- A12 Bionic chip gives a big boost to audio, video, and graphics, for even better game and app experiences than ever before
- The new Siri Remote with touch-enabled clickpad - Use AirPlay to share photos, videos, and more from your device on your TV
- Apple Original shows and movies from Apple TV+ - Watch the latest hits from Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and more
- More ways to enjoy your TV with Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, and Apple Music - Private listening using up to two sets of AirPods
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