The tvOS 26.4 beta cycle is now underway. Apple shipped the first developer beta on February 16, 2026, and the tvOS 26.4 public beta followed on February 17, 2026.
This update looks like a focused refresh rather than a big redesign. Even so, it brings a few visible changes that will matter if you buy movies and shows on your Apple TV, or if you care about HDMI audio stability.
How to install tvOS 26.4 public beta
- Join the Apple Beta Software Program using your Apple Account.
- On Apple TV, open Settings.
- Go to System > Software Updates.
- Open Get Beta Updates (or Beta Updates) and pick tvOS 26 Public Beta.
- Go back, then select Update Software to download and install.
All the changes in tvOS 26.4 public beta
iTunes Movies and iTunes TV Shows apps are gone
tvOS 26.4 removes the standalone iTunes Movies and iTunes TV Shows apps. You now buy and manage that content through the TV app instead.
Audio Format settings got a rethink
Apple updated the Audio Format section, including a label change where Dolby Atmos in the settings is now shown as Spatial Audio. You also get clearer choices like Auto, Stereo-only, and converting to Dolby Digital 5.1.
New HDMI option: Continuous Audio Connection
A new Continuous Audio Connection toggle appears for HDMI output. Reports say it aims to reduce audio dropouts and HDMI re-sync events when the Apple TV switches between formats like stereo, 5.1, and Atmos-style output.
That’s everything that’s clearly surfaced so far in the first public beta. If you spot another change on your setup, share it in the comments.
