If rumor mills are to be believed, Apple is all set to make a major leap in its software versioning with tvOS 26. Yeah, you got that right! The Cupertino giant is going to skip several versions to align with the 2025–2026 product cycle.
According to a well-known leaker with a reliable track record, tvOS 26 will only support the same Apple TV models that are currently compatible with tvOS 18, ensuring continued support for even older hardware like the Apple TV HD from 2015.
Take a look at the full list of Apple TV models expected to receive the tvOS 26 update:
- Apple TV HD (2015)
- Apple TV 4K (1st generation, 2017)
- Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021)
- Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022)
This means no new hardware exclusions, which is excellent news for users still holding on to older Apple TVs. Apple continues to show its strength in long-term software support by keeping a nearly decade-old device like the Apple TV HD in the loop.
With tvOS 26, Apple is expected to introduce a visionOS-inspired user interface, bringing a fresh and futuristic feel to the Apple TV experience. The update will likely include floating menus, translucent backgrounds, and soft light and shadow effects, creating a sleek glass-like appearance across the system. These visual changes align with similar redesigns rumored for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 16.
Aside from aesthetics, tvOS 26 may also bring functional upgrades such as new dynamic screensavers, improved Wi-Fi syncing between Apple devices, a cross-platform Games app, and even AI-powered content suggestions or controls—though details on these features remain speculative ahead of WWDC 2025.
By limiting support to devices that already run tvOS 18, Apple simplifies its software development process while continuing to serve its current user base. Users of legacy models can rest assured that they won’t be left behind, at least for this upcoming generation.
tvOS 26 may not grab as many headlines as iOS or macOS updates, but it’s shaping up to be one of the most visually and functionally ambitious versions yet. Stay tuned for full confirmation and feature details during Apple’s WWDC 2025 event.
