How to Fix Broken Apple TV Apps

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Like most technology, sometimes your Apple TV will have issues with the applications on it. The following steps will help guide you to fixing your app so you can go back to enjoying your Apple TV. Before we begin, ensure you have an active internet connection.

2. Restart

Your Apple TV does not have a power button. There are three methods for restarting it.

Restart by using settings

  1. Select Settings.
Apple TV home screen.
  1. Select System.
  2. Select Restart.
System settings with restart highlighted.

Restart using a remote

  1. Hold down the TV and Menu buttons.
Siri remote with menu and TV buttons highlighted.
  1. Let go when the light on your device flashes.

Restart using the power cable

  1. Unplug the power from the Apple TV.
  2. Wait 10 seconds.
  3. Plug the power back in to the Apple TV.

3. Delete App

  1. Highlight the app you want to delete.
Apple tv home page showing selected app
  1. Hold down the touch surface of the remote until the icon for the app begins to jiggle.
Apple tv remote showing touch surface
  1. Press the Play/Pause button.
Apple tv remote showing play/pause button
  1. Select Delete.
Applt tv confirmation to delete app

4. Install App

  1. Launch the App Store.
AppleTV app store

  1. Select or Search for the app you want.
AppleTV selecting an app from app store

  1. Tap Get to download the app.
AppleTV App store downloading app
  1. If you purchased the app before, use the Purchased icon instead.

5. Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset on your Apple TV erases everything from it. Be sure you have all appropriate data that you do not wish to lose backed up before proceeding further.

  1. Go to Settings.
Apple TV home page showing Settings highlighted.
  1. Go to System.
Apple TV settings page showing System highlighted.

  1. Go to Reset.
Apple TV system settings showing Reset highlighted.
  1. Choose a reset option:
  2. Reset: This option is the fastest way to return your Apple TV to factory settings and doesn't require Internet.
  3. Reset and Update: This option returns your Apple TV to its factory settings and installs software updates. This option requires Internet.
Apple TV reset options to Reset or Reset and Update.

  1. Keep your Apple TV plugged into power until the Reset process finishes.
  2. Once the reset has completed you can set up your Apple TV again.

6. What's next?

7. Network Test

  1. Push the home button on your remote.
Apple TV remote highlighting the home button.
  1. Choose Settings.
Apple TV home screen highlighting the Settings icon.
  1. Choose General.
Apple TV Settings menu highlighting the General option.
  1. Choose Network.
Apple TV General Settings highlighting the Network option.
  1. Choose Test Network.
Apple TV Network Settings menu highlighting the Test Network option.
  1. Choose OK.

8. Improve Network Performance

  • You may have to shut down or disconnect other unused devices that are connected to the same network.
  • If your device is connected via Wi-Fi, its distance from the router, as well as well as other environmental factors can affect the quality of the signal. Try moving your router to a more central location or use a Wi-Fi extender.
  • The best type of connection is a wired Ethernet connection. If possible, this is the way to go.

9. What's next?