Is your Apple TV stopping you from watching your favorite programs due to freezing or other issues? Troubleshooting is always a win! You may want to fix the performance bug or get the latest OS version, this detailed guide is suitable for you to know how to restart, reset and update your Apple TV the right way. Let’s get it back to work on the right side.
Restarting Apple TV: Simple Fix for Common Issues
Think of a reset as a simple way of quickly solving an issue. Here is how it can be done using different methods.
Method 1: Using Siri Remote or Apple TV Remote
This first method could be the most comfortable and quickest way to restart Apple TV. However, it depends on the remote you own.
- For 2nd gen Siri Remote: Please, hold Back (‘<‘) button and TV/Control Center until you see the light blinking on the Apple TV.
- For 1st Gen Remote: Turn on the TV and press Menu and TV buttons together until you see the light on the front blink quickly.
That is to say, the Apple TV is rebooting, so just be patient and it will go back to normal on its own.
Method 2: Turn It Off and On (Power Cycling)
A really good way to fix it when the remote is not functioning.
- Take the power cord from the wall or the Apple TV box out.
- Let’s say 5-10 seconds have passed.
- Insert it again.
- It will be powered on by itself.
Method 3: Restart from the Menu
If you still can make your way through the Apple TV screen:
- Proceed to Settings > System.
- Click on Restart.
- Allow it to self-start as it restarts.
Resetting Apple TV to Factory Settings
By resetting your Apple TV you are, in fact, removing all data, and that includes apps, accounts, and customizations- everything. This should be done only if you are in a really bad situation or decide to sell it.
When Should You Reset?
- Device frequently crashes or is unresponsive
- You plan to give it away to someone else
- You were advised by support to do so
Method 1: Factory Reset via Menu
- Head to Settings > System > Reset.
- Select Reset.
- Make sure you are really sure about it before you proceed to reset.
⚠️ Don’t unplug your Apple TV while it’s resetting or it can mess it up.
Method 2: Reset & Update Together
It’s good when you want to have not only a clean start, but the most up-to-date tvOS version as well.
- Go to Settings > System > Reset.
- Select Reset & Update.
- Tap Confirm. Stay patient while the procedure is ongoing.
It may be quite time-consuming as it is both downloading and installing things.
Method 3: Use Computer to Reset Apple TV HD
Only works with Apple TV HD, not 4K versions.
On macOS Sequoia or newer (using Finder):
- Disconnect the HDMI cable but make sure the power is still on.
- Use a USB-C cable to connect an Apple TV to the Mac.
- Open Finder, click on Apple TV in the sidebar.
- Click on Restore and then just follow the instruction that pops up.
On Older macOS or Windows PC (using iTunes):
- Unplug the HDMI but nothing more.
- Shift the Apple TV from USB-C and PC, or vice versa.
- Launch iTunes, there you can see the list of Apple TVs, just choose one.
- Tap the Restore and then just follow the instructions.
📲 Updating Apple TV Software: Stay Current
The introduction of new features, better performance, and security also comes with tvOS updates. Here’s the guide to update your Apple TV box.
Method 1: Check Manually
- In the Settings click on System and then click on Software Updates.
- Touch Update Software.
- You will be asked if you would like to Download and Install, press Yes.
In case your Apple TV is disconnected during an update, it will get ruined because it may cause a system failure.
Method 2: Turn On Auto Updates
- Open the Settings app, select the System option, and click on Software Updates.
- Turn off the Automatically Update toggle.
In general, the update process takes place at the most comfortable time for all, for instance at night when you sleep, or during the time the device is unused.
Wrapping Up
If there has been a case of misbehavior in your Apple TV, and now it has gotten back to the old ways, you have known all the solution. Yes, there are various ways of solving it, including basic restarts, software updates, and resets, but most of all,