Apple recently released a wave of software updates, including iOS 17.2, iPadOS 17.2, macOS Sonoma 14.2, watchOS 10.2, and tvOS 17.2. Though these updates introduced new features and improvements, two highly anticipated functionalities have been delayed until 2024: AirPlay in hotels and collaborative playlists for Apple Music.
Apple introduces Journal app with iOS 17.2, delays AirPlay and Apple Music features
The unveiling of the Journal app, a unique tool that seamlessly integrates data from Photos, workouts, and other Apple apps to offer personalized journaling suggestions, was met with enthusiasm. However, the absence of collaborative playlists, initially showcased in the early iOS 17.2 betas, left many Apple Music users disheartened. This unexpected delay has postponed the ability to collaboratively curate and modify playlists, a feature highly anticipated by users.
Similarly, the postponement of AirPlay in hotel rooms was met with disappointment. This feature, aimed at transforming the in-room entertainment experience, was originally slated to be released by the end of 2023. However, it has now been pushed to 2024, despite commitments of availability in select hotels, including IHG Hotels & Resorts, by the end of this year.
Amidst the delays of AirPlay in hotels, a collaborative effort between Apple and LG offers a promising glimmer of hope. LG, a leader in in-room hotel TVs, has been actively developing AirPlay features for its Pro:Centric Smart Hotel TVs, suggesting that this functionality might finally see the light of day with the release of iOS 17.3, expected to enter beta soon.
Connecting to a hotel TV via AirPlay will be designed for maximum convenience. Guests can simply scan a QR code displayed on the TV to effortlessly pair their Apple devices, eliminating the need for passwords or additional apps. This streamlined approach ensures a seamless and user-friendly experience for hotel guests.
Though the initial announcement of the collaboration focused primarily on LG’s upcoming Pro:Centric Smart Hotel TVs, it hinted at the possibility of AirPlay capabilities being extended to other LG hotel TV models in the future. This exciting prospect suggests that AirPlay might soon become a standard feature across LG’s entire hotel TV lineup.
Throughout the development process, Apple and LG have placed utmost importance on user privacy and security when implementing AirPlay on hotel TVs.
