Since this is a translation of an overseas article, there may be mistranslations.
https://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1780990471
Older Apple TVs will not support tvOS 27.
For the first time, older Apple TV models will not be supported by the latest version of tvOS. When tvOS 27 is released later this year, the Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K (1st generation) will be excluded from the update.
tvOS 26.6 was the last major update for the Apple TV HD. Since its launch in 2015, this device has received 11 consecutive years of the latest tvOS updates and has consistently provided new features.
The Apple TV 4K (1st generation) also received nine years of tvOS updates.
Both models will continue to function the same way, with access to existing streaming apps. However, they will no longer receive major updates with new features. Apple may still provide minor updates that include bug fixes or security patches.
Why now?
During WWDC 26, Apple initially listed both models as tvOS 27 beta compatible devices in its developer documentation. However, this information was later corrected. Currently, Apple only states that the Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) and Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) are compatible with tvOS 27.
Apple has confirmed that tvOS 27 will be supported on Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) and above.
The question is why this change occurred with tvOS 27 instead of last year's tvOS 26. Notably, tvOS 26 introduced a new Liquid Glass user interface that older models could not support. Could this be preparatory work for additional features in the yet-to-be-announced tvOS 27?
Another aspect is that despite receiving tvOS updates until recently, older models are increasingly experiencing limitations due to hardware specifications. Some functions in tvOS 27 will be exclusive to the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation).
Hardware Upgrade for Siri AI?
Rumors have been circulating about an enhanced Apple TV 4K with a faster chip and performance improvements.
Apple Intelligence and Siri AI would require more powerful hardware to be integrated into the Apple TV 4K. Additionally, console-level gaming already available on Macs, iPads, and iPhones would need hardware support for smooth performance.
▶ Source: https://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1780990471
