Apple has released tvOS 27 beta 7 to developers, continuing its testing cycle ahead of the public release expected this fall. The latest developer beta carries build number 24J5358a and arrives one week after beta 6, which carried build 24J5353b.
There do not appear to be any major new user-facing features specifically added with beta 7 so far. At this stage, Apple is focusing more heavily on bug fixes, performance improvements and final refinements as tvOS 27 gets closer to release.
How to update to tvOS 27 beta 7
If your supported Apple TV is already enrolled in the developer beta program, you can install beta 7 directly from Settings. tvOS 27 supports the Apple TV 4K second generation and newer models.
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- Open Settings on your Apple TV.
- Select System.
- Choose Software Updates.
- Open Beta Updates and make sure tvOS 27 Developer Beta is selected.
- Return to the Software Updates screen.
- Select Update Software.
- When tvOS 27 beta 7 appears, select Download and Install.
- Keep the Apple TV connected to power and the internet while installation finishes.
Your Apple TV will restart as part of the installation process.
All changes in tvOS 27 so far
Beta 7 appears focused on stability, but tvOS 27 has introduced several changes throughout the beta cycle.
- Redesigned Podcasts app: Apple has updated the Podcasts experience with redesigned navigation, video podcast playback and improved support for show and episode artwork.
- Larger Text: A new accessibility option lets users increase text sizes across more parts of the tvOS interface, making menus and other elements easier to read.
- More responsive Control Center: Apple has improved the speed and responsiveness of Control Center throughout tvOS 27.
- Smoother apps and animations: App launches and system animations have received performance improvements for a faster overall experience.
- Faster AirPlay connections: tvOS 27 improves connections when sending content to Apple TV from another Apple device.
- Smart Downloads: Apple has added smarter download management for supported content on Apple TV.
- AppleCare information in Settings: Users can now check AppleCare coverage information directly from the Settings app.
- Hi-Res Lossless in Apple Music: Apple Music gains support for Hi-Res Lossless audio on Apple TV 4K when used with compatible external audio equipment, extending playback beyond the previous 24-bit/48 kHz Lossless limit.
- AutoMix in Apple Music: tvOS 27 also brings Apple Music’s AutoMix feature to Apple TV, providing smoother transitions between compatible songs.
Apple has also fixed several issues during earlier betas, including an Apple TV app sidebar focus problem and unexpected subtitle behavior when muting or unmuting video playback.
With beta 7 now carrying an “a” build suffix, tvOS 27 is moving into the later stages of testing ahead of its wider release.
If you’ve already installed the update, let us know your experience in the comments.
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