Apple will introduce sign language interpretation on Apple TV on November 13, 2026, giving Deaf audiences another way to enjoy movies. The new accessibility feature allows viewers to watch selected Apple Original films with an on-screen interpreter. Rather than requiring separate versions, Apple has added sign language interpretation as an option in the standard video player.
The feature will initially support selected titles, starting with Being Heumann, a film about disability rights activist Judy Heumann. Apple will also bring American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) options to the film F1. The company plans to extend support to Way of the Warrior Kid and Greyhound later this year.
Unlike traditional sign language videos, Apple's new feature works directly with the original movie. Viewers can switch interpretation on or off while watching, just like subtitles. An interpreter appears in the bottom-right corner and translates spoken dialogue into signs during playback.
Apple has also focused on making the experience feel natural throughout each film. The company worked with Directors of Artistic Sign Language (DASLs) to create suitable interpretations. Deaf and native signers also helped design and test the experience. Apple has chosen human interpreters instead of AI-generated versions for this feature.
Sarah Herrlinger, Apple's senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives, highlighted the importance of inclusive entertainment. She said, “Bringing sign language interpretation to Apple TV is an exciting step forward in making the viewing experience more accessible and inclusive for Deaf audiences.”
Finding supported movies will also become easier through the Apple TV app. Eligible titles will display a Sign Language icon alongside captions and audio description details. Viewers can also search phrases such as 'with ASL' to find supported content.
The feature requires iOS 27.2, iPadOS 27.2, macOS 27.2, tvOS 27.2 or visionOS 27.2. Viewers must enable Sign Language through Apple TV app settings before using the playback option. Apple will also introduce a dedicated collection called 'Movies & Shows with American Sign Language.'
The initial selection remains limited, although Apple plans to expand support across more original titles. This update gives Deaf audiences another way to enjoy movies without changing the original viewing experience.
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