Apple has officially released tvOS 26 today, bringing a fresh design and a set of fun new features to Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K models. The update arrives alongside iOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and visionOS 26, ensuring every Apple device feels part of a unified ecosystem.
The most noticeable change is the adoption of Liquid Glass, Apple’s new design language. On Apple TV, it is a subtle refinement rather than a complete overhaul. The Control Center now mirrors the look of iPhone and iPad, and FaceTime gains a more iOS-like interface. The new visuals put the focus squarely on movies and shows, letting playback take center stage while menus and controls fade into the background.
AirPlay also gets a meaningful upgrade. In Settings > Video and Audio, you can now set any AirPlay speaker as the default audio output, saving you from having to reconnect each time the Apple TV wakes from sleep. This small change makes it far easier to use wireless setups like Sonos speakers as your permanent TV audio system.
Apple Music expands its entertainment options with Karaoke Mode, available on the 2022 Apple TV 4K. Pairing your iPhone via QR code gives you access to Sing playlists, complete with an optional on-screen visualizer. The feature works with built-in TV speakers or wired systems, letting you turn living rooms into karaoke nights.
Apple’s iconic screensavers also receive an update. tvOS 26 adds breathtaking new aerial views from India, including Goa and Kerala. You can now customize collections further by hiding specific sets or even individual scenes, tailoring the rotation to your preferences.
Profiles on Apple TV are more powerful than before. Users can now set profile selection on wake or go directly to a chosen profile each time. Developers can tie apps to these profiles, so the Apple account linked to a profile is used consistently across apps, making setup and personalization much faster.
tvOS 26 is available today as a free update for compatible Apple TV models: Apple TV HD (2015), Apple TV 4K (1st generation, 2017), Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021), and Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022).
