Apple has released the second public betas of tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27, giving users another chance to test the latest software before its official release later this fall. The new betas arrive a week after the first public beta and focus primarily on improving stability, fixing bugs, and refining the overall user experience.
If you’re installing the public beta for the first time, the latest release also includes all of the new features Apple introduced with tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27, including improvements to Apple Music, Podcasts, AirPlay, and overall system performance.
What’s New in tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27 Public Beta 2
Unlike the first public beta, the second public beta doesn’t introduce any major new features. Instead, Apple has focused on bug fixes, performance optimizations, and system refinements as development continues ahead of the official release later this year.
Users upgrading from the first public beta should notice a smoother and more reliable experience, while first time testers will gain access to the complete tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27 feature set.
tvOS 27 Improves the Apple TV Experience
tvOS 27 introduces several updates aimed at making Apple TV easier and more enjoyable to use every day.
The Podcasts app has been redesigned with a cleaner interface, sidebar navigation, and improved support for video podcasts. Smart Downloads are also available, automatically downloading new podcast episodes so they’re ready to watch or listen to offline.
Apple Music gains support for Hi-Res Lossless audio on compatible hardware, along with AutoMix, a feature that intelligently blends songs together for smoother transitions during playback.
Apple has also improved the overall tvOS experience with faster app launches, smoother animations, quicker AirPlay connections, easier profile switching, larger text options for improved readability, and the ability to manage Apple TV software updates directly from the Home app on iPhone.
HomePodOS 27 Focuses on Performance and Audio
Like tvOS 27, HomePodOS 27 is centered on media and performance improvements rather than Apple Intelligence features.
The update brings Apple Music AutoMix to HomePod, creating smoother transitions between songs during playback. AirPlay has also been optimized to start streaming more quickly from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, helping make the listening experience feel more responsive.
At launch, Siri AI is still unavailable on HomePod. Apple has not announced when its next generation assistant will expand to HomePod devices.
How to Install tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27 Public Beta 2
Anyone enrolled in Apple’s Beta Software Program can install the latest public betas.
To update Apple TV, open Settings > System > Software Update, enable Beta Updates, select tvOS 27 Public Beta, and install the update.
To update HomePod, open the Home app on your iPhone, go to Home Settings > Software Update, enable Beta Updates, then install HomePodOS 27 Public Beta.
As with all beta software, Apple recommends installing these updates only if you’re comfortable testing pre-release software, as bugs and unexpected issues may still occur.
Compatibility
tvOS 27 is available for supported Apple TV 4K models, while HomePodOS 27 supports all current HomePod and HomePod mini models.
Apple is expected to continue releasing additional beta updates throughout the summer before the final versions of tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27 roll out to all users this fall.
