Apple TVs will get native VPN app support in tvOS 17, according to an Apple press release (through 9to5Mac). It’s one of many features that didn’t make it into the keynote at WWDC 2023, but it could be a big deal for some people. Assuming native VPN apps work on Apple’s streaming box as they do elsewhere, you might not have to wait to get home to catch up on streaming shows when you’re traveling with an Apple TV 4K in tow.

Currently in tvOS 17, to use a VPN with your Apple TV you’ll need to do something like install a VPN on your router, and not all routers support this. Native VPN support is one of the rare advantages Google’s Chromecast or Amazon’s Fire TV devices currently have over the Apple TV.

We’ve reached out to some VPN services like NordVPN and Express VPN to find out if they have any plans to develop native apps for the Apple TV.

Native VPN support already exists on the iPhone, iPad and Mac, and adding the capability to your Apple TV is potentially great news – not just because it could mean streaming shows that aren’t available in your home country. VPNs on other devices may allow you to use TikTok on a university that banned itwhile selecting servers outside your own location could let you download the contentious social media app if, say, wider bans come into effect in a state like Montana.

Other new tvOS 17 features announced at the release include enhanced dialogue, which separates dialogue from background noise and routes it through your center channel, and Dolby Vision 8.1 support. It also brings updates to Apple Fitness+ that add custom workout and meditation plans that you can schedule based on things like your day, preferred duration, and workout type. It also adds stacked workouts — essentially a workout playlist option — and Audio Focus, which lets you prioritize music volume or voices from Apple trainers.