Prime Video has a somewhat checkered history with Apple TV, in that the streaming app’s UI hasn’t been the most compatible with the smart TV. However, that’s all about to change, thanks to Amazon’s new upgrade that better considers the Apple TV remote and OS.
The New Prime Video App for Apple TV Improves the User Experience
Apple TV owners who have previously cursed the Prime Video app for its clunky interface can now rejoice, as the streaming app’s latest update reportedly creates a smoother experience on Apple’s operating system.
As long as you have an Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD, you’ll be able to take advantage of the Prime Video app’s latest features.
Siri Remote Compatibility
In particular, the app has been updated to work more effectively with the Siri Remote that comes with your Apple TV. For example, Prime Video now lets you use the Siri Remote’s signature touch-enabled clickpad to navigate to a specific point in a series or movie, as a more targeted way of fast-forwarding or rewinding.
You can also swipe on the touchpad to scroll efficiently through titles on Prime Video.
Faster Searches
Another past issue with the Prime Video app’s performance on an Apple TV was its search functionality. Searching for a title using the touchpad took ages, particularly if you slipped and typed in the wrong letter. Now, Prime Video has created search shortcuts, autopopulating probable title names after each letter you enter.
Alternatively, you can use the Siri Remote’s voice control to search for content, by holding down the Siri button.
Quality and Accessibility Improvements
Amazon also claims to have upgraded Prime Video’s resolution with this latest update. Further, the streaming app has integrated Apple’s accessibility features such as VoiceOver, Hover Text, and Bold Text.
Does This Update Level the Streaming App Playing Field on Apple TVs?
The new features are likely to elevate Prime Video’s reputation among Apple TV users from “nightmare” to “functional.” More efficient navigation and searching makes a particularly big difference. That said, improved compatibility with the Siri Remote is a moot point if you’ve opted to ditch your Siri Remote for an alternative Apple TV controller. In other words, if you use another device like your iPhone to control your Apple TV, you may not feel the greatest impact from this update.
Another feature that Prime Video has not yet adopted in the name of Apple TV compatibility is the Tap-to-Zoom feature, which eliminates the letterbox effect, re-cropping your image to fill the screen. As a film nerd, I’m by definition against this practice, as it alters the intended composition of the frame. But, to each their own. The point is: this feature is not supported by Prime Video, even after this new update.
Now “primed” for fewer headaches, Amazon’s streaming app will hopefully provide greater access to its popular exclusive series like The Boys and Fallout—specifically for those who were previously too frustrated to use the app on an Apple TV.
