Katarzyna Petru
The spring system update for Apple TV will bring two significant changes. Apple is fixing annoying issues with switching audio formats and is definitively removing the iTunes app from the device interface.
Constant audio connection with no pops and volume drops
The new feature called Continuous Audio Connection maintains an active HDMI connection at all times. In practice, this means the end of sudden changes in audio format when starting a movie, pausing, or switching between stereo, 5.1, 7.1, and Dolby Atmos. Until now, such switches caused pops, brief signal interruptions, cuts at the beginning of playback, or differences in volume levels between formats. The problem has intensified in the streaming era, where various audio standards are used interchangeably.
The new solution transmits audio as an uncompressed HDMI signal in a Dolby MAT container. This is a form of LPCM, with or without metadata for Atmos. The system does not artificially boost the sound to Atmos but simply maintains a constant stream in one container. Early feedback from users of Sonos systems published on Reddit indicates that the issue with quieter playback of 5.1 tracks compared to Atmos has been resolved. The fix should also cover AV receivers, although Apple notes that some older models may incorrectly identify the signal as Atmos. The feature can be turned off in the settings if any irregularities occur. When transmitting audio through the television, HDMI eARC with the eARC option activated in the TV settings is required.
End of iTunes on Apple TV
The second change is the final removal of the iTunes app from the Apple TV home screen. The process of phasing out the brand has been ongoing for years. Music was moved to new apps in 2019, and movies in 2023. Since tvOS 26, users have been able to manually hide iTunes, and now the app is disappearing completely. Apple has informed via email those who have movies on their iTunes wish list that this feature will be deactivated. Users can transfer selected titles to the Watchlist in the Apple TV app.
tvOS 26.4 is a technically significant update. A constant audio connection via Dolby MAT eliminates pops, drops, and uneven volume, which will be especially appreciated by owners of soundbars and receivers. At the same time, Apple is ending the transitional phase and completely removing iTunes from Apple TV, directing users to the Apple TV app.
Source: Reddit, FlatpanelsHD
