Apple unveiled tvOS 26 at its Worldwide Developers Conference, introducing significant visual redesigns and new features for Apple TV devices.
New Liquid Glass Design and TV App Changes
The biggest change comes with Apple’s new Liquid Glass design language. This glossy visual approach creates a unified experience across Apple’s operating systems, particularly aligning with visionOS.
App icons now feature layered designs with specular highlights that add depth to every edge.
Playback controls refract content underneath without causing distractions. The interface maintains focus on storytelling while providing easy access to controls.
Apple redesigned the TV app with stunning cinematic poster art incorporating Liquid Glass elements. This change allows more shows and movies to display on screen, making discovery easier and more enjoyable.
Profile switching receives major improvements. Users can set Apple TV to automatically display profiles when the device wakes from sleep, letting family members quickly access personalized recommendations and Apple Music playlists.
Enhanced Features and Connectivity
A new developer API links app logins to Apple Accounts, eliminating repetitive sign-ins across different streaming services.
The Apple Music Sing experience transforms iPhone into a handheld microphone for Apple TV, with voices amplified through television speakers. Friends can join using their own iPhones to queue songs or react with onscreen emoji.
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Translation and pronunciation features help users follow songs in different languages, while real-time lyrics and visual effects light up the big screen.
Apple TV now supports any AirPlay-enabled speaker as the permanent default audio output. Previously, this feature was limited to select HomePod models.
The update also includes support for Apple’s new multiplatform Games app, aggregating Apple Arcade games and App Store titles into a single platform.
Apple released tvOS 26 in developer beta, with public beta testing beginning in July and full release scheduled for fall 2025.
Why We Recommend Android-Based Alternatives
While Apple TV offers polished features, we don’t recommend these devices due to their closed-source operating system. The locked-down nature of tvOS limits user flexibility and prevents side-loading applications outside Apple’s App Store.
Android-powered devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick and Google TV/Android TV boxes provide superior value for cord-cutters. These platforms allow users to install third-party applications and access more streaming options without restrictions.
And funny enough, last year Apple actually decided against creating a TV stick like we see with Fire TV and Android devices because it was ‘too cheap.’
Final Thoughts
Apple tvOS 26 represents visual improvements and practical features for the Apple TV platform.
However, the closed ecosystem limitations make Android-based alternatives more appealing for users seeking flexibility and customization options.
For more information on this story refer to Apple’s official press release for announcements and also the video below.
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