tvOS 26 Enhances the Apple TV Experience with Subtle Redesign and Smarter Features

While tvOS 26 didn’t command the spotlight at Apple’s WWDC event, it quietly delivers one of the most refined updates yet for Apple TV users. With a focus on consistency, responsiveness, and personalization, the update modernizes the Apple TV interface and adds a handful of useful enhancements without straying too far from its core.

The most noticeable change is the introduction of Apple’s new Liquid Glass aesthetic. Inspired by visionOS, the updated interface adopts fluid transparency, giving menus and overlays a softened, layered feel. Visual elements now react dynamically to what’s on screen, creating a sense of depth without distracting from the content. It’s a subtle shift, but it brings the Apple TV experience closer in line with the rest of Apple’s ecosystem.

The Apple TV app also sees some thoughtful improvements. Navigation is more streamlined, and cinematic poster art now takes center stage, enhancing the feel of browsing. Personalized profile switching has been upgraded — now adapting Watchlists and recommendations the moment the device wakes.

Entertainment features also receive attention. Apple Music Sing can now turn an iPhone into a live microphone, complete with on-screen lyrics and animations. FaceTime adds support for multilingual captions, smart call notifications, and contact visuals that reflect who’s calling — features powered by user profiles and on-device intelligence.

Other updates include new AirPlay speaker control options, support for faster app sign-ins, and a fresh set of Aerial screen savers featuring landscapes from India.

tvOS 26 may not reinvent the Apple TV, but its polish, subtle intelligence, and deeper ecosystem integration make it a strong companion update to Apple’s broader platform evolution arriving later this year.