Apple has just released new developer beta software for Apple TV users: tvOS 26.1 beta 2 is now available to download. Here’s why the forthcoming update might be set to hold surprises for users.
Why tvOS 26.1 might have more in store than betas reveal
If you’ve opted into Apple’s developer beta program, your Apple TV 4K has a new update to install.
tvOS 26.1 beta 2 is available now, following beta 1’s debut two weeks ago.
Apple’s first beta of tvOS 26.1 didn’t include any noticeable new features.
It’s possible that will change in today’s beta 2 release.
However, there’s also good reason to believe Apple might save at least some new features for the software’s public launch instead.
Why? Because a new Apple TV 4K is expected to debut around the time tvOS 26.1 ships to the public.
Whether at an October event or through some other type of unveiling, rumors indicate Apple will release the next generation of Apple TV 4K hardware very soon.
One tentpole addition is expected to be an A17 Pro chip to enable Apple Intelligence support.
Apple Intelligence isn’t yet available on any Apple TV models, but as hinted at by the language expansion of AI in iOS 26.1, Apple may be preparing the first AI features for tvOS too.
If that’s the case, tvOS 26.1 might seem like a very minor release up until the launch of new Apple TV hardware.
That hardware, however, could then bring some noteworthy new features to users as part of tvOS 26.1.
Have you installed tvOS 26.1 beta 2? Notice anything new? Let us know in the comments.
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