Apple is releasing a new software update for Apple TV 4K this year with tvOS 26. If you have an Apple TV, it's worth taking a closer look. tvOS 26 not only brings a new design, but also a central gaming app and convenient Wi-Fi syncing. The official announcement is expected at WWDC 2025. Here's what you can expect.
Apple TV+ is becoming increasingly popular, and this is also evident in the development surrounding the Apple TV 4K. What was once primarily a streaming device is increasingly becoming the multimedia hub of the Apple ecosystem. tvOS 26 demonstrates Apple's continued investment in this area – with an upgrade that brings significant changes not only cosmetically but also functionally. What's particularly exciting is that there will be new software, and towards the end of the year, new hardware as well.
New design to match iOS 26
With tvOS 26, you get a new user interface that's based on what Apple is planning for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. The design is based on the glass elements of visionOS, the operating system for the Vision Pro. This means more transparency, redesigned icons, new animations, and an overall cleaner look. Even though iOS 26 receives the biggest design changes, your Apple TV 4K will be visually updated. The UI elements and app display adapt to the new style, ensuring a more consistent user experience—especially if you use multiple Apple devices.
New gaming app for tvOS
A second major feature of tvOS 26 is the new Games app. Apple wants to push gaming more strongly across all devices, and this app is a key part of that strategy. With the new app, you can:
- Start all installed tvOS games directly
- discover editorial recommendations and news
- View and track game achievements
- Use leaderboards to compare yourself with others
- Download new games directly from the app
The app combines features previously scattered across Game Center and the App Store into one clear hub. This makes it easier to organize your games and discover new ones. This should be a worthwhile upgrade, especially for users who frequently play with a controller on Apple TV.
Wi-Fi synchronization for all devices
With tvOS 26, your Apple TV should also handle networks that require you to log in via a web form – so-called captive networks. These can be found in hotels, offices, or public Wi-Fi networks, for example. Until now, it was cumbersome to integrate your Apple TV into such networks because tvOS doesn't have a browser. That's changing now: When you log into such a network on one of your devices – for example, an iPhone, iPad, or Mac – the system remembers the login information. Your Apple TV can then connect automatically without you having to repeat the login process. This saves time and hassle, especially if you're on the go a lot or use multiple devices at the same time.
AI upgrades for Siri – but later
Regarding Siri, there are hints of planned AI upgrades. These are intended to make the voice assistant more intelligent and flexible – for example, through the use of large language models (LLMs). However, this won't come immediately with tvOS 26. The reason: full AI functionality will likely require new Apple TV 4K hardware , which isn't expected until later this year. Minor improvements to the Siri interface could be introduced with tvOS 26, but the major AI features are expected to follow with the new device.
tvOS 26 makes your Apple TV significantly better
tvOS 26 brings three key innovations that will visibly and noticeably improve your Apple TV 4K: a modern design, a bundled games app, and clever Wi-Fi syncing. There are also possible minor improvements to Siri and the promise of more features when new hardware is released. WWDC is just around the corner, and that's when Apple will officially unveil tvOS 26. If you use your Apple TV regularly, you'll definitely benefit from these changes—without having to buy a new device. And if you're thinking about upgrading anyway, the new Apple TV 4K could have even more to offer towards the end of the year. Looking for new accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront —there you'll find a variety of products from leading manufacturers, including HomeKit and more! (Image: Shutterstock / Masarik)
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