tvOS 26 features and upgrade guide: Apple TV models, Settings update
Confirm your Apple TV is compatible, then install tvOS 26 under Settings → System → Software Update.
When your Apple TV offers tvOS 26, confirm the model is on Apple's compatibility list, keep Wi‑Fi and power stable, then install through Settings → System → Software Update — do not hunt for firmware on unsupported Apple TV HD hardware.
This guide follows Apple Support for tvOS 26 features and Apple TV upgrade: what shipped, which Apple TV models qualify, and how to install from Settings. Facts come from Apple release notes only.
What tvOS 26 adds (per Apple)
Apple describes tvOS 26 as the living-room counterpart to iOS 26. Highlights below come from official release notes; availability varies by region and model.
Liquid Glass design
Home Screen, tabs, and system menus use Liquid Glass styling with clearer focus states across the Apple TV app, Settings, and Control Center.
Apple TV app
Updated Up Next rows and Store browsing. Apple notes improved sports Multiview entry points where subscriptions and regions allow.
Control Center and profiles
Regrouped quick toggles with clearer audio output and AirPlay entries. Profile switching is easier in shared living rooms.
Screensaver, Apple Games, Siri
Photos screensaver and ambience updates; Apple Games app on Apple TV; refreshed Siri and search bar for voice and keyboard queries.
Install tvOS 26 from Settings on Apple TV
Apple Support article "Update software on Apple TV" documents Settings → System → Software Update. Steps match official documentation.
- 1
Verify compatibility
Open Apple's "How to download tvOS 26" page. Eligible hardware starts with Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021). Unsupported models will not show the update.
- 2
Confirm Apple Account and network
Settings → Users and Accounts. Use stable Wi‑Fi or Ethernet; corporate networks that block Apple CDN may need a home connection. Stay plugged into power during download.
- 3
Check free storage
Settings → General → Manage Storage. Remove unused apps or games if space is low before downloading the update.
- 4
Download and install
Settings → System → Software Update → Download and Install. Apple TV restarts during install — do not unplug power.
- 5
Optional automatic updates
Settings → System → Software Update → Automatically Update installs later tvOS patches when the device is idle on network.
Compatible Apple TV models
| Model | Apple Support criteria | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple TV 4K (2021) | 2nd generation | Earliest tvOS 26 model |
| Apple TV 4K (2022) | 3rd generation, A15 | Full Apple Games support |
| Apple TV 4K (2024+) | Later 4K hardware | See Apple Support list |
| Apple TV 4K (2017) | 1st generation A10X | Not on tvOS 26 list |
| Apple TV HD (2015) | 4th generation | Not on tvOS 26 list |
Walk someone through update screens on figmeet · guide · features.
# Official starting points
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201492
https://support.apple.com/guide/apple-tv/update-software-atv3313c392/tvos
https://support.apple.com/guide/apple-tv/welcome/tvos
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/06/apple-tv-4k-gets-tvos-26-with-liquid-glass/Install tvOS 26 only through Apple's Software Update on the device. Do not sideload firmware from unofficial sources unless you knowingly enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program.
Still stuck?
My Apple TV never offers tvOS 26 — why?
If the hardware is not on Apple's compatibility list, the update will not appear. Apple TV HD and 2017 4K owners may remain on the latest tvOS Apple still serves for that hardware.
Can I update Apple TV from a Mac?
Consumer updates happen on-device via Settings → System → Software Update. Mac tools like Apple Configurator target organizations, not typical home upgrades.
Download stuck or failed?
Restart Apple TV and your router, confirm storage and network, then retry. Contact Apple Support with any on-screen error code if it persists.
Must I upgrade iPhone to iOS 26 the same day?
No. tvOS and iOS update independently even though both shipped in fall 2025.