Hidden Apple TV Features Every User Should Know The Apple TV 4K is more than just a streaming box—it’s a powerful hub packed with under-the-radar features that can transform your entertainment experience. With tvOS 26 in 2025, Apple has introduced tools like multi-user profiles, picture-in-picture streaming, and enhanced smart home integrations that make your viewing smarter and more personalized.

2025 Apple TV 4K with A17 Pro chip, Wi-Fi 7, and Apple Intelligence, showcasing advanced gaming and smart home features for seamless streaming and control.

Apple TV’s multi-user profiles ensure everyone in your household gets tailored recommendations without cluttering your watchlist. To set up profiles, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Add User, then sign in with each person’s Apple ID. tvOS 26’s profile picker, accessible by holding the TV button to open Control Center, now appears automatically when the device wakes, letting you switch users in seconds. Each profile tracks individual watchlists, Apple Music playlists, and Apple Arcade progress.

For example, your action movie picks won’t mix with your kids’ cartoon suggestions. According to Apple, 82% of multi-user households report improved content curation with profiles. Optimize for “Apple TV profile customization” to attract users seeking personalized streaming tips.

A close-up of a sleek black Apple TV device on a white surface, showcasing the Apple logo with intelligent design. Next to it lies a silver remote control, partially visible, featuring a black touchpad and buttons. The background is a neutral gray color.

Picture-in-Picture for Multitasking: Apple TV PiP Mode, Streaming Multitasking, Video Overlay Tips

Picture-in-Picture (PiP) lets you watch a video in a small window while navigating other apps, perfect for multitasking. Start a show in a supported app like Apple TV+ or YouTube, then swipe up from the bottom of the screen and tap the PiP icon (bottom right). The video shrinks to a corner, allowing you to browse apps or check settings while it plays. Move the window by dragging it or return to full-screen with the TV button.

This is great for keeping an eye on a game while browsing Netflix or replying to messages. TechRadar notes PiP boosts user engagement by 30% for supported apps. Target “Apple TV PiP mode tips” to capture multitasking enthusiasts.

Smart Home Control with HomeKit: Apple TV HomeKit Hub, Smart Home Integration, Automation Tricks

Apple TV doubles as a HomeKit hub, letting you control smart devices like lights, thermostats, or cameras directly from your TV. Open Control Center (hold the TV button), select the HomeKit icon, and choose scenes or automations, like dimming lights for movie night. tvOS 26 enhances this with Matter protocol support, expanding compatibility to more devices.

For instance, say “Hey Siri, start movie night” to dim lights and queue a playlist. Apple’s 2025 smart home report claims 65% of HomeKit users rely on Apple TV for automation. Optimize for “Apple TV HomeKit hub” to reach smart home enthusiasts.

AirPlay for Seamless Streaming: Apple TV AirPlay Tips, Device Mirroring, Multi-Device Streaming

AirPlay lets you stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to Apple TV effortlessly. On your device, tap the AirPlay icon in apps like Photos or Music, select your Apple TV, and choose to mirror the screen or stream specific content. New in tvOS 26, you can designate AirPlay 2 speakers as permanent audio outputs for consistent sound setups.

Use AirPlay to share a photo slideshow or send a Fitness+ workout to your TV. CNET reports AirPlay’s reliability makes it a top choice for 70% of Apple users. Target “Apple TV AirPlay tips” for users exploring cross-device streaming.

Customizable Subtitles and Accessibility: Apple TV Subtitle Customization, Accessibility Features, tvOS 26 Enhancements

Apple TV’s accessibility features shine with customizable subtitles. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Subtitles and Captioning > Style to adjust text size, color, or background. tvOS 26 adds Live Captions for FaceTime in languages like French and Japanese, making calls more inclusive. Create custom styles via Edit Styles > New Style for unique designs, like outlined text for clarity.

For visually impaired users, VoiceOver and Hover Text enhance navigation. Apple’s accessibility stats show 90% user satisfaction with these tools. Optimize for “Apple TV subtitle customization” to attract accessibility-focused searches.

FAQs and Comparisons: Apple TV vs. Roku, Hidden Features, tvOS 26 Tips

What are the best hidden Apple TV features in 2025? Multi-user profiles, PiP, HomeKit integration, and AirPlay 2 stand out for personalization and multitasking.

How does Apple TV compare to Roku in 2025? Apple TV’s ecosystem integration and privacy focus outshine Roku’s budget-friendly interface, though Roku offers more app variety.

How do I set up multi-user profiles on Apple TV? Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Add User, sign in with an Apple ID, and switch via Control Center.

Can I use PiP with all Apple TV apps? No, only supported apps like Apple TV+, YouTube, and select streaming services enable PiP; check app settings for compatibility.

Is Apple TV’s HomeKit hub better than a HomePod? Apple TV offers visual control and broader Matter support, while HomePod focuses on audio-driven automation.

tvOS 18.2 projector aspect ratio customization for enhanced home theater viewing on Apple TV.
tvOS 18
Mickey
About the Author

Mickey is a passionate tech enthusiast and longtime Apple aficionado based in Los Angeles. With a keen eye for innovation, he’s been following the evolution of Apple’s products since the early days, from the sleek designs of the iPhone to the cutting-edge capabilities of the Vision Pro.