tvOS 26 RC is here with a fresh design, a new TV app, and Apple Music Sing upgrades. Find out what’s new and how to install it on your Apple TV.
The tvOS 26 RC comes after months of testing since its WWDC debut in June, and unless something major breaks, this version will likely be identical to the one Apple ships in the coming days.
What’s New in tvOS 26
While tvOS updates are usually subtle, version 26 adds a few welcome touches:
- Liquid Glass refresh: Apple’s new design language comes to the big screen.
- Redesigned TV app: Cleaner look with easier access to personalized recommendations.
- Apple Music Sing upgrade: Use your iPhone as a microphone for karaoke nights.
Not groundbreaking, but definitely quality-of-life improvements for daily use.
Supported Apple TV Models
Not every device will get the same features, so here’s the breakdown:
- Update supported on: Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K.
- Liquid Glass supported on: Second-gen Apple TV 4K and newer.
If you’re on older hardware, you’ll still get tvOS 26, just without all the polish.
How to Install tvOS 26 RC
Getting the update is simple — here’s how:
- Go to beta.apple.com and enroll your Apple ID in Apple’s beta program (you can also do this directly on your Apple TV).
- On your Apple TV, open the Settings app.
- Navigate to System > Software Updates.
- Select Get Beta Updates, then choose tvOS 26.
- Download and install the update.
Make sure your Apple TV is online and give it some time — the update can take a while depending on your internet speed.
Final Thoughts
The release of tvOS 26 RC means the wait is almost over. With a sleeker design, a better TV app, and some fun new tricks for Apple Music Sing, this update feels like a nice polish pass before the next wave of Apple hardware arrives.
If you’re curious and don’t mind running pre-release software, you can install it now. Otherwise, sit tight — the official rollout is just around the corner.
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