Apple Gives a First Look at tvOS 26 Design and Features


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Today, Apple begins its 2025 WWDC event. Last week, we got some hints at what the company would be announcing during the event, including a redesign that would include Apple TV and a new naming system based on year, making this update tvOS 26.

First up is the new look that we’ve been hearing about. Apple says that the new design for tvOS 26 will allow users to focus on what’s playing, along with making the design more interactive and useful for users. The design uses a material called Liquid Glass. Apple says: “It brings a vibrant look to Apple TV, delivering a fresh and expressive design that beautifully reflects and refracts its surroundings using real-time rendering.”

With the update, Apple will introduce profiles, allowing every member of the household to personalize their own profile and get straight to their favorite content.

tvOS will also be getting new capabilities to connect to Apple Music. Sing in Apple Music allows users to use their iPhone as a microphone to amplify voices over an Apple TV. Ready for a karaoke party? Everyone can queue up their favorite songs on their own iPhones when it’s their turn. The Apple TV will show real-time song lyrics.

Additional updates coming to Apple TV:

  • More personalized FaceTime experience including displaying a contact’s customized photo and name when a call starts, Live Captions for FaceTime conversations in other languages, and phone call notifications for the active profile.
  • Enjoy breathtaking landscapes with new Aerial screen savers captured across India, including in Goa and Kerala.
  • Personalize the screen saver experience by choosing specific Cityscape, Earth, Landscape, or Underwater Aerials to display — or hide.
  • Designate any AirPlay-enabled speaker as the permanent speaker for Apple TV.

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