Apple has introduced a new version of the software for Apple TV — tvOS 26. The main innovation was the updated visual design Liquid Glass. Among the new features are updates to Apple Music Sing and improved switching between profiles.
The new design of the operating system uses real-time rendering. Apple notes that the design is created with an emphasis on content so that the user can enjoy watching TV shows and movies to the fullest.
The TV app uses Liquid Glass to display new poster art, and the home screen features updated icons with depth and glitter effects.
Apple Music Sing has been improved in tvOS 26, allowing you to use your iPhone as a karaoke microphone to make your party even more fun. Friends can also join in with their iPhones, add songs to your queue, and react to them.
Switching between profiles is now easier: There’s now a setting that automatically shows your profile selection when your Apple TV wakes from sleep, giving you quick access to your personal favorites in the TV app.
tvOS 26 also introduces new animated Aerial screensavers , and you can now choose any AirPlay-enabled speaker as a permanent audio source for Apple TV — previously, this option was only available for HomePod.
Regarding compatibility, tvOS 26 is supported on the following devices:
- Apple TV HD (2015)
- Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021)
- Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022)
But note that the new Liquid Glass design and some other features are only available on Apple TV 4K (2nd and 3rd generation). They are not supported on Apple TV HD.
By the way, developers can already install tvOS 26. The public beta will become available next month, and the final release is expected in the fall.
Recall that at WWDC 2025, Apple also introduced iOS 26, watchOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, and new features for AirPods.