**tvOS 26.4: Upgrades and the New “Continuous Audio Connection” Option**
Apple’s latest tvOS update, version 26.4, has introduced considerable modifications, notably the elimination of the iTunes Movies and TV Shows applications from the Apple TV ecosystem. Nonetheless, one of the most prominent new features is the “Continuous Audio Connection” option, aimed at improving audio playback experiences for users, particularly those using Sonos speakers along with AV receivers.
### Comprehending the “Continuous Audio Connection” Option
Apple defines the “Continuous Audio Connection” option as a capability that employs a Dolby MAT (Metadata-enhanced Audio Transmission) connection. This connection is intended to deliver seamless audio playback across different formats. Although older receivers might display an Atmos connection, the original audio mixes will remain intact, allowing users to enjoy the content as it was meant to be experienced by the creators.
### Responding to User Feedback
The launch of this option seems to be a direct reaction to feedback from Apple TV users who have encountered audio problems, especially with Sonos speakers. Numerous users reported hearing popping sounds or facing low volume levels while playing specific channels, particularly with 5.1-channel content.
Feedback from the Sonos subreddit suggests that activating the “Continuous Audio Connection” option has fixed these problems for many users. One user mentioned, “I can confirm that this function resolved my issues with 5.1 multichannel PCM content being significantly quieter than Atmos content. My 5.1 content sounds just as impressive as Atmos now.” Another user supported this view, emphasizing the enhancement in audio quality.
Previously, users had to turn off eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) and permit their televisions to recode audio to Dolby Digital Plus or enforce Dolby Digital within the Apple TV settings to alleviate these audio concerns. With the new option, these workarounds are no longer required.
### Possible New Challenges
In spite of the advantages, some users have indicated that the “Continuous Audio Connection” option might introduce new difficulties, particularly with stereo content. Conversations in various forums suggest that while the option fixes problems related to multichannel audio, it could complicate playback of stereo audio formats.
### Final Thoughts
To sum up, the “Continuous Audio Connection” option in tvOS 26.4 provides a promising remedy for users facing audio issues with Sonos speakers and Apple TV. While it has effectively tackled many complaints regarding 5.1-channel content, it may also result in new challenges for stereo playback. As the update is now available to developer and public beta users, further adjustments are anticipated as Apple continues to collect feedback throughout the testing phase.