Music streaming giant Spotify has revealed an extensive redesign of its Apple TV application, marking the most significant update to the platform since its tvOS debut. Announced on October 27, 2025, the completely rebuilt app optimized for tvOS 26 addresses longstanding user complaints about missing features and poor experience on larger screens, positioning Spotify to compete directly with Apple Music and YouTube in living rooms worldwide.
The overhaul introduces a native tvOS interface specifically tailored for television displays, featuring dynamic navigation and 4K HDR support for enhanced visual quality. Internal data suggests this native approach will yield 29% longer engagement periods compared to the previous generic interface. The app was rebuilt from scratch to ensure optimal performance and speed on Apple TV devices. Users can expect automatic updates by mid-November, though enthusiastic subscribers can manually download the new version immediately through the Apple App Store.
Perhaps most prominently, Spotify has expanded its video capabilities, bringing video podcasts to the platform alongside music videos for Premium subscribers in 97 global markets. The update includes a “switch to video” option for compatible tracks and playback speed controls for both music videos and podcasts, though availability in the US and Canada continues to roll out gradually. This expansion helps independent artists leverage playlist pitching opportunities to increase their visibility across Spotify’s ecosystem.
Spotify’s bold video expansion delivers Premium subscribers in 97 markets access to both podcasts and music videos with playback controls.
The app now incorporates features previously exclusive to mobile devices, including on-screen lyrics for sing-along experiences, smart queue management, and Spotify Connect for remote control functionality from smartphones or tablets. This seamless integration creates a more immersive living room experience without requiring constant use of the Siri Remote. The interface has been designed with a focus on continuous motion to ensure users can smoothly transition between different content types without experiencing jarring pauses.
AI-powered personalization arrives on the big screen through Spotify DJ, a feature first launched on mobile in February 2023 that offers tailored recommendations based on listening habits. This addition helps close the feature gap with Apple Music’s personalization offerings.
Looking ahead, Spotify has announced a partnership with Netflix to deliver exclusive video podcast series beginning in 2026, signaling the company’s broader ambitions in the video content space. The thorough overhaul reflects Spotify’s strategic evolution from a music streaming service into a full-fledged entertainment platform, with future updates likely to further integrate video, AI, and social features specifically designed for television viewing.
