Alongside iOS 26, Apple previewed the all-new tvOS 26 expertise at WWDC. Because it’s been doing because it launched the tvOS model, Apple will proceed to help all of its set-top containers, from the 2015 Apple TV HD to the third-generation Apple TV 4K (2022).
In spite of everything, the expertise has stayed constant between the updates. Over time, in fact, Apple began providing just a few unique options on the newest fashions, corresponding to Apple Music Sing performance. However now, we’re lastly beginning to see indicators that the Apple TV HD and the first-generation Apple TV 4K will quickly be discontinued.
Similar to macOS Tahoe 26 would be the final software program replace for Intel Macs, tvOS 26 is likely to be the final for the oldest Apple TV fashions. Right here’s why.
Liquid Glass is unique to 2 Apple TV 4K fashions
Throughout the WWDC 2025 keynote, Apple talked lots about its new Liquid Glass design. In response to the corporate, “it brings a vibrant look to Apple TV, delivering a recent and expressive design that fantastically displays and refracts its environment utilizing real-time rendering.”
Apple additionally improved the TV app expertise for watching exhibits and films, improved profile switching, and added many different options. Nonetheless, on the corporate’s Apple TV 4K web page, Apple states that this new design is unique to the second-generation Apple TV 4K or later.
As such, the 2015 Apple TV fashions will persist with the previous design, and the one new options obtainable for these gadgets is likely to be the Aerial display savers.
The most effective tvOS 26 options are coming for just a few supported gadgets
As Apple pushes shoppers to purchase the most recent Apple TV 4K mannequin (though I’d suggest you to attend for a brand new era, because it’s been three years for the reason that final mannequin arrived), right here’s what the latest Apple TV is getting with the tvOS 26 replace:
- Apple TV app: Apple revamped the TV app by including cinematic poster artwork. The corporate says it makes it simpler for customers to find what to play subsequent.
- Higher profile-switching: Once you get up the Apple TV, Apple will immediate you to decide on your profile. In case you reside with different folks, this shall be helpful to make sure your suggestions stay yours.
- Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation: With Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation, you’ll be able to see the interpretation of a music and the best way to sing it if it’s not your native language.
Beneath, you’ll be able to be taught extra about all the new tvOS 26 options Apple is working to deliver to Apple TV fashions later this fall.
