Apple is introducing a new accessibility feature on its streaming platform that will allow viewers to watch selected movies and shows with sign language interpretation, expanding access to its original programming for deaf audiences.
The Sign Language feature will make its debut Friday, Nov. 13, alongside the global streaming premiere of “Being Heumann,” a film based on the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann.
The initial rollout will also include “F1,” which will offer interpretation in American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL).
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Apple said “Way of the Warrior Kid” and “Greyhound” will receive the feature later this year, with additional Apple Original titles expected to follow.
The feature allows viewers to activate sign language interpretation within the Apple TV app rather than having to locate a separately listed version of a supported title.
Once enabled, a Sign Language button becomes available during playback, allowing viewers to access the interpretation while watching the original production.
Apple said the interpretations are designed and tested by deaf and native signers, and each performance is developed to complement the particular film it accompanies.
The company’s announcement also included comments from Daniel Durant, who appears in Being Heumann and directed the film’s sign language interpretation.
Durant said the process involved considerable care to ensure that translations conveyed the emotion and meaning of the story.
He welcomed the opportunity to see sign language represented on screen and praised Apple’s efforts to improve accessibility for Deaf audiences.
The feature can be activated through the Apple TV app’s settings, It is supported on devices running iOS 27.2, iPadOS 27.2, macOS 27.2, tvOS 27.2 and visionOS 27.2 or later, and is also available on supported third-party devices running the latest version of the Apple TV app.
Viewers can identify eligible titles through a Sign Language icon displayed on their title pages, after enabling the option in settings, they can select the Sign Language button during playback.
Apple is also introducing additional ways to find supported content and a dedicated collection titled “Movies & Shows with American Sign Language” will bring together titles offering the feature.
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Viewers can also use search phrases such as “with ASL” to locate compatible programming.
Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives, said the introduction reflects the company’s commitment to making entertainment more accessible and inclusive.
“Accessibility is a core value at Apple,” Herrlinger said, adding that the company wants more people to enjoy the content they love.
The initial availability is limited to selected Apple Original productions, with further titles planned for inclusion.