VIZIO SmartCast 3.0 Beta Brings AirPlay 2 And HomeKit Support

TVs are no longer just the entertainment hubs of the home, some have even become smart home hubs. But while smart TVs have all sort of Internet-connected features, not all of them are able to support all the streaming services and sources one might like. The next best thing is to stream videos and audio from your phone to the TV and as of SmartCast version 3.0, VIZIO's smart TVs will be equipped to handle almost all content sources, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

As the name might imply, one of VIZIO's SmartCast features focuses on casting, that is, streaming, content from, say, mobile devices, to the big screen. That's especially useful for when the TV itself doesn't have an app for the streaming service or content source of choice. Noticeably missing, however, was support for Apple's streaming protocol and smart home platform.

That all changes with SmartCast 3.0. This version of VIZIO's smart TV software will include support for AirPlay 2. More than just being able to stream 4K and Dolby Vision HDR content from iOS and macOS devices, this means that SmartCast TVs will also be able to sync with other smart speakers thanks to AirPlay 2's multi-room feature.

SmartCast 3.0 will also make VIZIO TVs a part of the smart home family thanks to Apple HomeKit. Users will be able to control their TVs from their iPhones or iPads or even ask Siri to do it for them. And, of course, you can also make the TV a part of your morning or evening Scenes.

With the addition of AirPlay 2 and HomeKit, VIZIO's SmartCast TVs will be embracing the big three of smart home automation and digital entertainment. VIZIO's beta program will start in Q1 2019; individuals interested in participating can sign-up now for a chance at getting access.