In this step-by-step tutorial, we show you how to download and install the latest tvOS 27 non-beta, public beta, or developer beta on your Apple TV so you can get the new features.
Note that tvOS 27 is only supported on 2nd- and 3rd-generation Apple TV 4K models released in 2021 and 2022, respectively (and the latest 2026 model already comes with tvOS 27 pre-installed). Older Apple TV models that supported tvOS 26, namely the Apple TV HD and the 1st-generation Apple TV 4K, are no longer compatible.
Download tvOS 27 on Apple TV
- Open the Settings app on your Apple TV.
- Scroll down and select System.
- Select Software Updates under the Maintenance heading.
- Select Update Software, followed by Download and Install. If no update is available, it will say, “Your Apple TV is up to date for tvOS 27.”
tvOS 27 should start downloading soon. It will then prepare and install itself.
Install tvOS 27 beta
Follow these steps if you have previously used developer beta or public beta software on your Apple TV or any other device, like your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
1) Open the Settings app on your Apple TV and make sure it’s connected to a working Wi-Fi network or Ethernet.
2) Select System from the bottom of the screen.
3) Select Software Updates.
4) Wait a couple of seconds until the Beta Updates option shows up on the screen, and select it.
5) Now, select tvOS 27 Public Beta or tvOS 27 Developer Beta, and confirm by selecting Get Beta Updates if prompted.
6) You’ll now see an ‘Apple TV Update’ popup; select Download and Install here.
If you don’t see the tvOS 27 public beta update, sign up with your Apple Account on beta.apple.com and retry the steps above after 5 minutes.
In case you don’t see the tvOS 27 developer beta option, that means you have never used Apple’s developer beta on your devices. Head to developer.apple.com/account and sign in with your Apple Account for free to register your account as a developer. Then, wait a few minutes and follow the above steps again. Restart your Apple TV if you still don’t see the new tvOS 27 update.
We have talked more about getting developer beta updates in our guides on installing iOS 27 and iOS 26; check them out, as the basics are the same.
New tvOS 27 features
Apple didn’t talk about tvOS 27 at their June 2026 keynote, as the main focus was on the new Siri AI. Still, here are some notable changes your Apple TV will get with this update.
tvOS 27 offers faster app launches, smoother animations, quicker AirPlay connectivity with other Apple devices, and a more responsive Control Center.
If you listen to podcasts on your TV, you’ll notice that the app has been visually revamped, which I think is an overall good change.
You can also increase the system text size by going to Settings > Accessibility > Display > Text Size.
And when you go to tvOS 27 Settings > General, you’ll notice a new AppleCare & Warranty option that gives you more information about it, as seen in the screenshot below.
Additionally, some reports also mention improved game controller settings and Hi-Res Lossless audio support in Apple Music.
You can also use up to 4 HomePods with your Apple TV for a theater-like experience. Plus, you can toggle HomePod Sound Glow from tvOS 27 Control Center.
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