Apple is preparing to release tvOS 26.4, a spring refinement update for Apple TV. Since tvOS 26 introduced Apple’s new Liquid Glass design language in 2025, version 26.4 is the most stability-focused update of this cycle — targeting real-world pain points reported by Apple TV 4K users.
While it isn’t a major redesign, tvOS 26.4 brings three meaningful improvements:
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HDMI audio stability upgrades
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Easier subtitle customization
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Full removal of legacy iTunes apps
Here’s everything you need to know.
tvOS 26.4 Release Date (Expected)
Based on Apple’s historical spring update schedule, the public release is expected in March or April 2026.
Apple is also rumored to be preparing a new Apple TV 4K model for 2026, though it has not yet been officially announced. A spring debut would likely mean tvOS 26.4 becomes one of its first pre-installed updates.
The 3 Biggest Changes in tvOS 26.4
1. Continuous Audio Connection Finally Fixes HDMI Dropouts
The most meaningful upgrade in tvOS 26.4 is a new setting called Continuous Audio Connection, designed to solve a long-standing frustration for home theater users.
Credit by 9to5mac
Many Apple TV 4K owners have experienced brief audio dropouts, popping sounds, or noticeable delays when switching between apps or when content changes from stereo to Dolby Atmos. These issues are especially common when using AV receivers or premium soundbars from brands like Denon, Marantz, or Sonos.
With tvOS 26.4, Apple allows the system to maintain a continuous LPCM/Dolby MAT signal instead of renegotiating the HDMI connection every time playback changes. By keeping the audio pipeline active, handshake delays are reduced and format switching becomes nearly seamless. For users with Dolby Atmos or eARC setups, this could be the most important improvement in the entire update.
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Shop Now2. Subtitle Controls Are Now Built Into the Player
tvOS 26.4 also makes subtitles far easier to manage. Previously, adjusting subtitle styles required digging through Accessibility settings, which made on-the-fly changes inconvenient during playback.
Now, style options appear directly within the video player interface when subtitles are enabled. Users can quickly adjust text size, outlines, and background appearance without leaving the content they’re watching. It’s a small interface tweak, but it significantly improves usability — especially for households that rely on subtitles regularly.
Credit by 9to5mac
3. The Final Goodbye to iTunes on Apple TV
Another notable change is the complete removal of the standalone iTunes Movies and iTunes TV Shows apps. All previously purchased and rented content remains available inside the Apple TV app under the Library tab, so nothing is lost.
This marks the final step in Apple’s long transition away from the iTunes brand in the living room. The result is a cleaner home screen and a more unified content experience, without redundant legacy apps.
Which Devices Support tvOS 26.4?
tvOS 26.4 is expected to support:
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Apple TV HD
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All generations of Apple TV 4K
Performance improvements will be most noticeable on Apple TV 4K models connected to advanced audio systems.
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Feature Comparison: Before vs After tvOS 26.4
| Feature | Before tvOS 26.4 | After tvOS 26.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Subtitles | Hidden in Accessibility menu | Direct in-player style menu |
| HDMI Audio | Possible handshake delays & pops | Seamless Continuous signal |
| iTunes Apps | Separate legacy apps | Fully integrated into TV app |
Is tvOS 26.4 Worth Updating?
If you:
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Use a Dolby Atmos or AV receiver setup
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Notice occasional audio sync delays
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Regularly use subtitles
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Prefer a simplified interface
Then yes — this is a meaningful quality-of-life update.
For casual streamers, changes may feel subtle. For home theater enthusiasts, the HDMI stability upgrade alone makes this update important.
Final Thoughts
tvOS 26.4 is not a flashy redesign — but it is a refinement update that addresses real user pain points.
By improving HDMI audio stability, modernizing subtitle controls, and finally eliminating legacy iTunes apps, Apple is quietly polishing the Apple TV experience ahead of its next major software cycle.
Expect the public release in early Spring 2026.
