Apple has released the first public betas of tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27, giving Apple TV and HomePod users early access to the latest software updates before their official release later this year. Both updates are now available through the Apple Beta Software Program.
While tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27 don’t introduce major new AI features like iOS 27 or macOS 27, they bring several welcome improvements across Apple Music, Podcasts, AirPlay, and overall system performance. Siri AI isn’t included in the first public beta, with Apple instead focusing on refining the existing Apple TV and HomePod experience.
What’s New in tvOS 27
The Podcasts app has been redesigned with new sidebar navigation and improved support for video podcasts. Smart Downloads are also available, automatically downloading new podcast episodes for offline listening.
Apple has also improved the overall experience with a more responsive Control Center, smoother animations, faster app launches, and quicker AirPlay connections. Users can choose larger text sizes throughout the interface for improved readability, while AppleCare coverage details are now available directly in Settings.
Another useful addition lets users manage Apple TV software updates through the Home app on iPhone, making it easier to keep connected devices up to date.
Apple Music Gets New Features
The update adds support for Hi-Res Lossless Audio on compatible hardware, giving listeners access to higher-quality playback. Apple has also introduced AutoMix, which intelligently blends songs together for smoother transitions between tracks.
Both features are also available in HomePodOS 27, providing a more seamless listening experience across Apple’s home entertainment devices.
HomePodOS 27 Brings Smaller Improvements
AirPlay connections are now faster, helping playback begin more quickly when streaming from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. HomePodOS 27 also adds Apple Music AutoMix, creating smoother transitions between songs during playback.
Siri AI Isn’t Included Yet
One notable omission from the first public beta is Siri AI.
Apple’s next-generation assistant is already available in public beta on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, but it has yet to arrive on Apple TV or HomePod. Apple hasn’t announced when Siri AI will come to these platforms, though it’s expected to require future hardware with more powerful processors.
For now, the first public beta remains focused on performance improvements and media enhancements.
Compatible Devices
tvOS 27 drops support for two older Apple TV models, so only supported Apple TV 4K models can install the public beta.
HomePodOS 27 continues to support all current HomePod and HomePod mini models.
How to Install the Public Betas
Anyone enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program can install both updates for free.
To install tvOS 27:
- Open Settings on your Apple TV.
- Go to System > Software Update.
- Enable Beta Updates.
- Select tvOS 27 Public Beta and install the update.
To install HomePodOS 27:
- Open the Home app on your iPhone.
- Tap More > Home Settings > Software Update.
- Enable Beta Updates.
- Install HomePodOS 27 Public Beta.
Apple is expected to continue releasing beta updates throughout the summer before tvOS 27 and HomePodOS 27 are released to all users later this year.
