tvOS 26 is here, and while the update may seem small at first glance, it could be significantly more significant than expected. It provides clues to new Apple TV 4K hardware, expected to arrive in fall 2025. In particular, the way Apple handles FaceTime in this update suggests that a major hardware upgrade is imminent—potentially with features that will take Apple TV into a whole new device class.
The last major Apple TV 4K update was three years ago. In 2022, Apple released a more powerful model with an A15 chip, and since then, things have been relatively quiet around the set-top box. Now, rumors are growing that Apple is planning a new Apple TV 4K, slated for release this fall. tvOS 26 could serve as preparation for new features that will be introduced with the next generation of hardware. It's typical for Apple to release certain software features early to ensure a smooth transition to the new hardware.
A new Apple TV 4K is in the starting blocks
According to several reports, including Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a new Apple TV 4K. This is said to be equipped with more modern hardware – including a faster A18 or A17 Pro chip. The device is also said to feature Apple's own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modem for the first time. Particularly striking: There are indications of a built-in camera – a first for an Apple TV. The camera would not only be intended for FaceTime video calling, but possibly also for new control types such as gesture recognition. According to Gurman, the system is also intended to work closely with iPhones and the Vision Pro headset. This would integrate the Apple TV 4K more closely with the rest of the Apple ecosystem.
What tvOS 26 reveals
At first glance, tvOS 26 appears to be a manageable update. Apple has introduced a new Liquid Glass design that's more visually appealing. The TV app has been redesigned, and there are new karaoke features. Compared to the major changes in iOS or macOS, all of this seems relatively unspectacular. Things get interesting, however, with the FaceTime improvements. tvOS 26 brings several new features:
- Contact posters now appear when you start a FaceTime call on Apple TV. The contact's personal photo and name appear, as seen on iOS.
- Live subtitles are now available in additional languages, including French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish.
- Notifications about FaceTime audio and regular phone calls will now appear on the active profile's screen.
- When you start the Apple TV, a profile selection screen appears so that the FaceTime function can be directly assigned to the correct user account.
These changes are noteworthy because FaceTime on the Apple TV previously only worked via the so-called Continuity Camera—that is, via a paired iPhone that had to be brought close to the TV using a stand. This was impractical and therefore used by only a few. The fact that Apple has now integrated several convenience features for FaceTime into tvOS 26, despite its rather cumbersome use so far, suggests that this will soon change. There's every indication that the Apple TV 4K will be equipped with its own camera in the future, enabling FaceTime without the need for an additional device.
What else the new hardware could bring
In addition to the camera, other features are expected for the upcoming Apple TV 4K. These include a more powerful chip—either the A18 or A17 Pro—which would be particularly beneficial for graphics-intensive applications and gaming. Furthermore, a self-developed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modem will be installed for the first time. This would make Apple less dependent on third-party providers such as Broadcom. Another possible feature is the integration of Apple Intelligence—AI-supported functions such as those Apple announced for iOS 18. Combined with a camera, this could open up entirely new application possibilities, such as person recognition, gesture control, or context-dependent control of the user interface.
tvOS 26 as a harbinger of a new Apple TV 4K
tvOS 26 may seem like a minor update on the surface, but it contains numerous hints of an upcoming hardware change for the Apple TV 4K. The numerous FaceTime improvements, in particular, suggest that Apple is working on a model with an integrated camera. The expected hardware upgrade, with a faster chip and dedicated wireless modem, also suggests that the next Apple TV will be significantly more versatile than previous generations. If you're thinking about buying or upgrading an Apple TV, it's worth waiting until fall. The signs point to change—and tvOS 26 already provides the first concrete hints of what the new Apple TV 4K might look like. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Vladimka production)
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