Apple has announced a new Sign Language Interpretation feature for Apple TV, allowing Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences to watch selected movies and shows with an on-screen sign language interpreter. The feature will debut on November 13, 2026, alongside the release of Being Heumann, a biographical film about disability rights activist Judy Heumann.
The new accessibility option will support American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL), with additional Apple Original titles scheduled to receive support. Unlike separate sign-language editions of films, Apple’s implementation allows viewers to enable or disable interpretation directly within the original content.
Apple Integrates Sign Language Into Video Playback
The feature displays a sign language interpreter in the bottom-right corner of the screen, translating spoken dialogue while the movie or television show continues playing. Viewers can activate the option through Apple TV’s playback settings, similar to enabling subtitles or audio descriptions.
The interpretation is integrated into the main video experience, eliminating the need to select a separate version of the film. Supported titles will display a sign language icon alongside other accessibility information on their Apple TV pages.
Apple has worked with Directors of Artistic Sign Language (DASLs) to ensure interpretations reflect the tone, emotion, and storytelling style of each production. The company confirmed that it uses human interpreters rather than AI-generated avatars, citing feedback from the Deaf community.
F1 and Other Apple Originals to Receive Sign Language Support
The initial rollout begins with Being Heumann, which tells the story of disability rights advocate Judy Heumann. The film will be released on Apple TV with sign language interpretation available from launch.
Apple will also introduce ASL and BSL interpretation for its Formula One racing film F1. Additional titles, including Way of the Warrior Kid and Greyhound, are scheduled to receive support later in 2026.
The company has not specified how many titles will ultimately support the feature or provided a complete schedule for future additions. Availability will initially be limited to selected Apple Original productions.
New Search and Accessibility Settings Improve Discovery
The feature will be introduced through iOS 27.2, with a new sign language option available in the device’s settings. Once enabled, supported Apple TV titles will display an additional control allowing viewers to activate interpretation during playback.
Apple TV will also identify available sign languages within each title’s language settings. Viewers can find compatible movies and shows through searches such as “with ASL” or browse a dedicated editorial collection titled “Movies & Shows with American Sign Language.”
These changes are intended to make accessible content easier to locate without requiring viewers to search individual titles for supported features.
Apple Expands Accessibility Across Its Entertainment Services
Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives, said the company developed the feature to make entertainment accessible to a wider audience. She emphasized that accessibility remains an important consideration across Apple’s products and services.
The introduction of sign language interpretation builds on existing Apple TV accessibility features, including closed captions and audio descriptions. Apple has not announced whether the feature will eventually support additional sign languages beyond ASL and BSL.
Featured image credits: Wikimedia Commons
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