Apple TV launched a built-in sign language interpretation feature in 2026, giving Deaf viewers the ability to enable on-screen interpreters directly within supported titles — no separate version of the content required.
The feature became available starting Friday, November 14, 2026, with the release of “Being Heumann,” a biopic about disability rights activist Judy Heumann. American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) support will also be added to Apple’s film “F1,” with additional titles — including “Way of the Warrior Kid” and “Greyhound” — to follow later in the year.
When a supported title is playing, a human interpreter appears in the bottom right of the screen, translating spoken dialogue into signs. Apple has partnered with Directors of Artistic Sign Language (DASLs) to match each interpreter’s style to the tone of the film. The company stated it is not using AI-generated interpreters, noting that this is not what the Deaf community has indicated it needs.
Unlike other platforms that offer sign language as a separate product, Apple’s implementation works as a toggle — similar to closed captions or audio descriptions — integrated into the main viewing experience. The setting is accessible through a new sign language option in Settings, available in iOS 27.2. Once enabled, a sign language icon appears on supported title pages alongside other accessibility indicators. A dedicated editorial collection, “Movies & Shows with American Sign Language,” and search keywords such as “with ASL” make supported content easier to find.
“At Apple, we believe everyone should be able to enjoy great stories and entertainment,” said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives. “Bringing sign language interpretation to Apple TV is an exciting step forward in making the viewing experience more accessible and inclusive for Deaf audiences.”
Source: TechCrunch