How to Fix Update Issues on an Apple TV

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

The Apple TV has a straightforward update process.

This guide will walk you through troubleshooting any problems you may have during the update.

In the next step, we'll start by restarting your Apple TV, just to be sure we have the best chance of success the very first time.

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.
   

1. Select System.
2. Select Restart.
   

Restart using a remote

1. Hold down the TV and Menu buttons.
   

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. Update

Update Now

1. Push the home button on your remote.
   

1. Choose Settings > System > Software Updates.
2. Choose Update Software.
   

1. If an update is available, you will be prompted to update. Choose Download and Install.
   

1. Your Apple TV will begin the update process. It may restart a couple times during the update.
   

1. 
   
2. The update process can take quite a long time, over an hour, depending on the size of the update and the connection to Apple's servers.
3. It is critical you do not turn off or restart your Apple TV during the update process. Doing so can cause your Apple TV to no longer function.

Automatic Updates

Turning on automatic updates is a good way to ensure your Apple TV stays up-to-date.

1. Push the home button on your remote.
   

1. Choose Settings > System > Software Updates.
2. Choose Automatically Update, and make sure it is set to On.
   

4. Network Test

1. Push the home button on your remote.
   

1. Choose Settings.
   

1. Choose General.
   

1. Choose Network.
   

1. Choose Test Network.
   

1. Choose OK.

5. Update

Update Now

1. Push the home button on your remote.
   

1. Choose Settings > System > Software Updates.
2. Choose Update Software.
   

1. If an update is available, you will be prompted to update. Choose Download and Install.
   

1. Your Apple TV will begin the update process. It may restart a couple times during the update.
   

1. 
   
2. The update process can take quite a long time, over an hour, depending on the size of the update and the connection to Apple's servers.
3. It is critical you do not turn off or restart your Apple TV during the update process. Doing so can cause your Apple TV to no longer function.

Automatic Updates

Turning on automatic updates is a good way to ensure your Apple TV stays up-to-date.

1. Push the home button on your remote.
   

1. Choose Settings > System > Software Updates.
2. Choose Automatically Update, and make sure it is set to On.
   

6. What's next?

7. How to Factory Reset Your Apple TV

Show Me HowClicking this button will open a new guide that will provide you with steps to resolve your issue.

8. Connect Your Apple TV to Your Home Network

Show Me HowClicking this button will open a new guide that will provide you with steps to resolve your issue.