Apple's suite of operating systems received updates this past Monday (September 15), with everything from iOS 26 to macOS Tahoe getting new features and a unified interface. That spate of updates also included tvOS 26, the latest version of Apple's software for its Apple TV set-top boxes.
Like the other software updates, tVOS 26's big update is the new Liquid Glass visual redesign that brings a fresh look to the system. Unfortunately, if you own an older Apple TV streaming box you might not get Liquid Glass or some other new features.
Every Apple TV unit, including the HD and 4K ones, are capable of running tvOS 26 which does bring some nice features like PS5 DualSense controller support, Dolby Atmos updates and new Aerial customization settings.
The new Liquid Glass aesthetic is separate, apparently, and only available for the second- and third-generation Apple TV 4K models, released in 2021 and 2022, respectively.
Of course, as we've found with iOS 26, not everyone is excited about Liquid Glass. For some it may be a boon if Liquid Glass doesn't show up on their Apple TV.
Additionally, the new Apple Music Sing karaoke mode is only available on the 2022 Apple TVs and only on iPhones that can run iOS 26, starting with the iPhone 11 or the third-generation iPhone SE, which debuted in 2022.
It's time for an Apple TV 4K update
UnlikeiPhones and MacBooks, the Apple TV is on one of Apple's longer refresh cycles. We're three years out since the last model came out and it's starting to get long in the tooth.
A fourth-generation Apple TV set-top box has been rumored to launch since last summer, with rumors claiming the device would support Apple Intelligence features and updated Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 7 standards.
More than likely the next Apple TV will ship with Liquid Glass out of the box, and should be a much smoother experience on a potentially more powerful device.
Current leaks point to the next Apple TV launching this year, but with WWDC and the iPhone 17 launch in the rear view mirror, we're running out of time in 2025. There's a possibility of one last Apple event, possibly in October, which is when we sometimes see new MacBooks.
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