According to MacRumors, Apple’s tvOS 26.2 update completely changes how profiles work on Apple TV by allowing profile creation without requiring an Apple Account. The new “Create Profile” option only needs a name, profile rating, and whether the user is a child, making it perfect for guest access and kids. This represents Apple’s closest approach yet to a dedicated kids mode for Apple TV, something that was rumored years ago but never materialized. The update is currently available for developers and public beta testers, with the official launch expected around mid-December. Profiles created without Apple Accounts can be deleted later or upgraded to include an account, and they may also appear on third-party devices with the Apple TV app.
What this actually means for families
Here’s the thing about Apple‘s approach: it’s both convenient and surprisingly limited. The kids profile only applies to the Apple TV app itself – not to other streaming services or games. So while your child might see age-appropriate content in Apple’s ecosystem, they can still access Netflix, Disney+, or download any app from the App Store unless you’ve separately configured parental controls.
And that’s the real catch. Parents will still need to dig into the existing parental control settings to actually lock down the device. The kids profile is more of a content filter than a true sandboxed environment. Basically, it’s Apple’s way of saying “we’ll handle our own app, but you’re on your own for everything else.”
The guest profile game-changer
Now, the ability to create profiles without Apple Accounts is arguably the bigger deal here. Think about it – how many times have you had house guests who wanted to watch their own shows without messing up your recommendations? Or family members who don’t use Apple products but still want their own space on the living room TV?
This solves that problem elegantly. Adult profiles get unrestricted access to content and their own recommendation algorithms. And if someone later decides they want to connect an Apple Account, they can upgrade the profile. It’s a smart move that makes Apple TV more hospitable for mixed-technology households.
Why this matters beyond your living room
Look, Apple’s playing catch-up here. Other streaming platforms have offered guest profiles and better kids controls for years. But when Apple moves, the industry pays attention. The fact that these profiles might sync to third-party devices with the Apple TV app suggests Apple’s thinking bigger than just the Apple TV hardware.
This is part of Apple’s broader services strategy – making their ecosystem accessible even to people who don’t fully buy into it. And honestly, it’s about time. The old requirement that every profile needed an Apple Account was just… inconvenient. Sometimes the best technology decisions are the ones that remove barriers rather than adding features.
