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Apple TV apps can now support Facebook login w/ the company’s new tvOS SDK

Facebook today has unveiled its own SDK for the new Apple TV’s tvOS. In a blog post on its Developers site, Facebook says that using the Facebook SDK on tvOS will allow developers to build “immersive” social experiences on the platform including tools like login, sharing, and analytics.

One area in which many believe the new Apple TV has fallen short is text input, especially when logging into services and applications. Facebook’s SDK for tvOS, however, will users to quickly login using their Facebook credentials. If a user were to choose the Facebook method, they would be presented with a unique 8 digit code that they could then enter into their smartphone or tablet to authorize the application. There would be no need to use the on-screen Apple TV keyboard to enter full log-in information.

Facebook SDK on tvOS will also allow developers to implement the ability for users to share content from the Apple TV to their Facebook accounts. This could include content like videos, photos, gaming high scores, and more. Think of how apps on iOS allow Facebook sharing now.

Finally, Facebook’s tvOS SDK will allow developers to more easily track their audience and audience engagement. Developers who implement the SDK will be able to see what type of users are viewing their apps and use that data to make more poignant decisions.

Developers interested in building with Facebook SDK for tvOS can check out the company’s developmental guide for more details.

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Comments

  1. stevelawrence - 8 years ago

    Better yet, why doesn’t it just display a 2D barcode that you then scan with the Facebook app to activate

    • davidt4n - 8 years ago

      Just use QR code

      • stevelawrence - 8 years ago

        Sorry yes, that’s what I meant to say but couldn’t think of the name!

  2. PhilBoogie - 8 years ago

    There are ≈ 5 billion people not on Facebook. Might be better if Apple simply updated the Remote iOS app.

  3. standardpull - 8 years ago

    there is no reason why I would want Facebook tracking my use of 3rd party apps.

    • jramskovk (@jramskovk) - 8 years ago

      Totally agree! I’m never going to use Facebook to login to anything.

    • cjt3007 - 8 years ago

      the worst that would happen is they sell that info for marketing… and that already happens with all your info, so why does it matter?

  4. Giovanni Murru - 8 years ago

    Actually it was possible also without this SDK… I released this app before the Facebook SDK for tvOS, and it works!
    You can view all your facebook photos on your Apple TV!!! The app is called Fbk Photo

Author

Avatar for Chance Miller Chance Miller

Chance is an editor for the entire 9to5 network and covers the latest Apple news for 9to5Mac.

Tips, questions, typos to chance@9to5mac.com