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Apple is giving your Apple TV a sleek new makeover this fall. When tvOS 26 officially launches in September, users can expect a more refined interface — including a stunning Liquid Glass design and refreshed screen savers — plus a handful of fun and functional new features.
Among the updates: Apple Music will now let you use your iPhone as a karaoke mic, and Apple TV will support quick profile switching when it wakes up — perfect for households with multiple users. But the standout feature? A major expansion of Apple TV’s wireless speaker capabilities.
Apple TV Will Soon Support Any AirPlay Speaker as a Default Output
With tvOS 26, you’ll finally be able to assign any AirPlay-enabled speaker as your Apple TV’s default audio output— a feature that’s been limited to just Apple’s HomePod and HomePod mini until now.
Previously, while you could stream audio from Apple TV to an AirPlay speaker, the connection was temporary — you’d have to reconnect it manually every time you powered the TV back on. That’s about to change. Once tvOS 26 arrives, you’ll be able to make that connection permanent.
“So when you turn your TV on, its sound will automatically play out of that AirPlay-enabled speaker,” reports Gear Patrol.
This update dramatically broadens your home theater options. That’s because most Wi-Fi speakers today support AirPlay, including popular models from Sonos, Bose, Naim, and KEF. With tvOS 26, any of these can function as your primary TV speakers — no wires or soundbars required.
Looking to ditch your aging soundbar or expensive AV setup? This wireless option could be a more affordable and elegant alternative. And yes, you’ll still need an Apple TV device — but now, you can surround it with speakers of your choice.
For more smart Apple TV upgrades and tech, check out NerdNet’s coverage here.
How It Works
Once you’ve updated to tvOS 26, just head to your Apple TV’s Settings menu to set any AirPlay speaker as your system’s default output. As of now, it’s unclear whether stereo pairing — like you can do with two HomePods — will work with third-party speakers. Apple hasn’t said if this will become part of what it calls “home theater audio.”
tvOS 26 is expected to release alongside the next wave of iPhones and Apple Watches this September. For a sneak peek, check out Apple’s tvOS 26 preview page.
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