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tvOS 26 to Support These Apple TV Models

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Apple's upcoming tvOS 26 software update will support all Apple TV models that are compatible with tvOS 18, according to a private account on X with a proven track record for upcoming software updates.

tvOS 26 Feature
If this rumor is accurate, and we have high confidence that it is, then tvOS 26 will be compatible with the Apple TV HD – released in 2015(!) – and beyond:

  • Apple TV HD (2015)
  • Apple TV 4K (1st generation, 2017)
  • Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021)
  • Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022)

Rather than naming the next-generation version tvOS 19, Apple is going to call it tvOS 26, our source confirmed. All of the software updates coming this year will be numbered "26," reflecting the September 2025 to September 2026 release cycle.

The visionOS-inspired design coming to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS will also extend to tvOS. While tvOS typically receives less attention and specific details are scarce, we can infer some changes based on iOS rumors.

iOS 26 is expected to feature a visionOS-like interface with translucent elements, floating menus and windows, and softer, rounded visuals. The design uses light and shadow to create a glass-like effect, as seen in Apple's WWDC promotional imagery, so expect these to appear.

We're also expecting new screensavers, a new cross-platform Games app, Wi-Fi syncing, and potential new AI-powered features. For everything we know, be sure to check out our WWDC roundup for tvOS 26.

Related Roundup: Apple TV
Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)
Related Forum: Apple TV and Home Theater

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Top Rated Comments

A
appleuser21
13 months ago
It's crazy that Apple still supports the Apple TV HD (2015), while at the same time they dropped support for the Apple Watch SE (2020) last year.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
D
D-a-a-n
13 months ago

That's pretty wild.

Honestly, if you're still using one of these you really should upgrade.

I found that model to be slow and "meh" even when it was pretty new.
I still do, other than being slow, I don't see a point in upgrading. I also don't have a 4K tv, so doesn't make sense for me.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Archmage Avatar
Archmage
13 months ago

That's pretty wild.

Honestly, if you're still using one of these you really should upgrade.

I found that model to be slow and "meh" even when it was pretty new.
They sold these up until the 4Kgen3 was released in 2022, so that’s probably why it’ll still get the new tvOS.

But wow, it has an A8 👁️👄👁️
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
J
JustSomebody12
13 months ago

That's pretty wild.

Honestly, if you're still using one of these you really should upgrade.

I found that model to be slow and "meh" even when it was pretty new.
No.

TV dongles have much longer lifespan.

And Apple TVs are known for their higher price.

Killing them, especially since most people use them ONLY to watch streaming services, would be a suicide for the whole line of product
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
M
MNGR
13 months ago

Outside of enthusiasts, I doubt Apple sells many of these anymore considering most TVs do everything most people would want built in (even Apple’s own services). Pretty well everyone I know just uses the apps built into the TV.

Obviously Apple saw this coming, otherwise they wouldn’t have opened up their services (especially AirPlay) directly to TV manufactures.
Nope. My ATV 4k does a much better job than my LG TV
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
MacsRgr8 Avatar
MacsRgr8
13 months ago

Yeah, I’m happy they still support the older ones. At last count we have six still operating in the house. We upgrade the one in the living room and trickle down from there.
Yep, similar case here.
Great they still supported. To me speed is not the issue, but the compatibility and security updates are.
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
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