tvOS 26.4 adds new ‘Continuous Audio Connection’ on Apple TV

Source: 9to5Mac

New “Continuous Audio Connection” Setting

In tvOS 26.4, Apple introduced a new setting called Continuous Audio Connection. When enabled, Apple TV uses a Dolby MAT connection for glitch‑free playback across formats. Older receivers may still display an Atmos connection, but the original mixes are not altered.

Why the Setting Was Added

The feature appears to address complaints from Apple TV users who pair Sonos speakers with AV receivers. Some users reported popping noises or unusually low volume on certain channels, especially with 5.1‑channel content.

User Feedback

• A Reddit post on the Sonos subreddit notes that enabling the setting fixed issues with 5.1 multichannel PCM content being quieter than Atmos content.

  “I can confirm that this function fixed my issues with 5.1 multichannel PCM content being way quieter than Atmos contents. My 5.1 content sounds just as great as Atmos now.”

• Previously, users had to disable eARC and let the TV recode to Dolby Digital Plus, or force Dolby Digital in Apple TV. The new toggle removes the need for those work‑arounds.

Reported Side Effects

Some Sonos users have observed that the setting can cause problems when playing stereo content. The discussion can be found in a separate Reddit thread.

Current Status

tvOS 26.4 is available to developer and public beta participants. Apple is expected to refine the Continuous Audio Connection setting based on ongoing feedback.