Apple this week released tvOS 26.4, a software update bringing several new features and refinements to Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD models dating back to 2015. The update, released on March 24, 2026, focuses on improving content discovery, addressing audio glitches, and streamlining the user experience. For many users, the most noticeable change will be the removal of the standalone iTunes Movies and TV Shows apps, consolidating all video content within the Apple TV app.
The update arrives as Apple continues to position the Apple TV as a central hub for home entertainment, competing with streaming devices from Roku, Amazon, and Google. Although the tvOS ecosystem isn’t as expansive as some competitors in terms of app availability, Apple focuses on a curated experience and tight integration with its other services, like Apple Arcade and Apple Music. This latest update builds on that strategy, aiming to make finding and enjoying content even easier.
Updating to tvOS 26.4 is straightforward. Users can navigate to the Settings app on their Apple TV, then select System > Software Updates > Update Software. The process typically takes only a few minutes, depending on internet connection speed.
Genius Browse: A Smarter Way to Find Something to Watch
One of the headline features of tvOS 26.4 is “Genius Browse,” a new content discovery tool within the Apple TV app. Designed to combat the endless scrolling often associated with streaming services, Genius Browse offers curated recommendations based on viewing habits. Instead of simply presenting a list of popular titles, the feature groups content into thematic categories, like “Bittersweet Family Dramas” or “Good for a Pick-Me-Up,” as MacRumors reported. These categories are dynamically updated, ensuring a fresh selection of suggestions.
Fixing Audio Hiccups with Continuous Audio Connection
Apple has also addressed a persistent issue affecting some Apple TV 4K users: audio glitches during transitions between content with different audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos and stereo. TvOS 26.4 introduces a “Continuous Audio Connection” setting, found under Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Format > HDMI Output. According to Apple’s description, this setting utilizes a Dolby MAT connection to ensure seamless playback across various formats. The company notes that older receivers might still indicate an Atmos connection, but the original audio mix will remain unaltered.
More Control Over Subtitles
Subtitles are getting a usability boost with tvOS 26.4. Users can now adjust the style of subtitles – size, appearance, and background transparency – directly from the video player, eliminating the need to navigate to the Settings app. This is a small but significant quality-of-life improvement for viewers who rely on captions. The controls are accessible via a speech bubble icon within the player interface.
The Complete of iTunes Apps on Apple TV
Perhaps the most significant change for longtime Apple TV users is the removal of the dedicated iTunes Movies and TV Shows apps. Apple is fully consolidating all video content within the Apple TV app. This move aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of simplifying its ecosystem and encouraging users to adopt its unified services. While some users may initially miss the familiar iTunes apps, the Apple TV app now serves as the single destination for purchasing, renting, and watching video content.
Beyond the Headlines: Performance and Stability
In addition to the user-facing features, tvOS 26.4 includes unspecified performance and stability improvements. Apple routinely bundles these types of enhancements with its software updates to ensure a smoother and more reliable user experience. The release notes confirm that the update addresses the previously mentioned audio issue and consolidates the iTunes apps, stating: “This update fixes an issue with audio playback…iTunes Movies and TV Shows apps removed…This update also includes performance and stability improvements.”
Apple’s commitment to refining the tvOS experience is ongoing. The company is expected to continue adding features and improvements throughout the year, further solidifying the Apple TV’s position in the competitive streaming landscape. Users can stay informed about future updates and features by regularly checking the Apple Support website and following Apple’s official announcements.
The next major software update for tvOS is anticipated to be unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2026, where the company typically previews upcoming features for all its platforms.
Have you updated to tvOS 26.4? Share your experience in the comments below.
