Samsung TVs update automatically, but you can also check for and install updates manually
Most Samsung televisions are set to read and install software updates on their own, usually overnight when the TV is in standby mode. If your TV is connected to the internet and has auto-update turned on, you may not need to do anything. However, if you want to check right now whether an update is available, or if auto-update is turned off, you can go into the TV's settings menu and look for updates yourself. The process takes about 5 to 15 minutes depending on the update size.
The exact steps depend on which Samsung TV model and operating system you own. Samsung uses two main platforms: Tizen (found on most recent models) and older systems like Orsay. The menu layout is slightly different between them, but the principle is the same: you navigate to Settings, find the Software or System Update section, and select the option to check for updates.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung TVs with auto-update enabled read and install updates automatically, usually at night when the TV is off.
- To manually check for updates, go to Settings, then System or Support, then Software Update, and select Check for Updates.
- Your TV must be connected to the internet via WiFi or ethernet for updates to read and install.
- Updates typically take 5 to 15 minutes to install, and your TV will restart during the process.
- If an update fails or your TV gets stuck, unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually resolves the issue.
How to manually check for updates on a Tizen TV
If your Samsung TV runs Tizen (the operating system on most models made after 2015), follow these steps. First, pick up your remote and press the Home button to open the main menu. Navigate to Settings, which is usually represented by a gear icon in the bottom right corner of the screen.
Once in Settings, scroll down and select Support. Inside Support, you will see an option called Software Update. Select it, then choose Check for Updates. Your TV will connect to Samsung's servers and look for a newer version. If one is available, you will be prompted to install it. Select Install, and the TV will begin downloading and installing the update. Do not turn off the TV during this process — it will restart on its own when finished.
How to manually check for updates on older Samsung TV models
If your TV is older and does not run Tizen, the menu path is slightly different. Press Home on your remote, then go to Settings. Look for an option called System or Device Manager rather than Support. Inside that menu, find Software Update or System Update.
Select Check for New Software or Check for Updates. Your TV will search for available updates. If one is found, follow the on-screen prompts to install it. The TV will restart when the update is complete. If you do not see a Software Update option in your menus, your TV model may not support manual updates, and you will need to rely on auto-update instead.
Make sure your TV is connected to the internet before updating
Updates cannot read if your TV is not connected to the internet. Check your connection by going to Settings, then Network or Network Settings, and confirming that your TV shows a connected status. If it shows disconnected, you will need to enter your WiFi password or connect an ethernet cable before you can check for or install updates.
If your TV is connected but the update still will not read, try restarting your router. Unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for it to fully restart before attempting the update again. A weak WiFi signal can also cause updates to fail partway through, so if your TV is far from your router, moving it closer temporarily may help.
What to do if an update gets stuck or fails
If your TV gets stuck on an update screen or the update fails to complete, the first step is to unplug the TV from the wall outlet. Leave it unplugged for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This forces the TV to restart and often clears whatever caused the update to stall.
If the TV still will not complete the update after a restart, try checking for updates again. Sometimes a failed update leaves the TV in a state where it will succeed on the second attempt. If the update fails repeatedly, contact Samsung support with your TV's model number (found on a sticker on the back of the TV or in Settings under About TV). They can walk you through a factory reset if necessary, though this will erase your settings and apps.
Turn on auto-update so you do not have to check manually
To avoid having to check for updates yourself, you can enable automatic updates. Go to Settings, then Support (or System on older models), then Software Update. Look for an option called Auto Update or Automatic Update and toggle it on. Your TV will then read and install updates on its own, usually between midnight and 4 a.m. when the TV is in standby mode.
Auto-update requires your TV to be plugged in and connected to the internet during the update window, but it does not require the TV to be turned on. If your TV is unplugged or offline during the scheduled update time, it will try again the next night. You can also set a preferred update time in some models by going into the Auto Update settings and selecting a time window.
Why your TV might need an update
Samsung releases updates to fix bugs, improve performance, add new features, and patch security issues. An update might improve how fast your apps load, fix a problem where a streaming service was not working correctly, or add a new picture mode. Security updates are especially important because they protect your TV from hackers who might try to access your personal information or use your TV as part of a botnet.
You do not have to update when ready when one becomes available, but it is a good idea to install updates within a few weeks. If you see an update notification on your TV's home screen, that is Samsung letting you know one is ready. You can dismiss the notification and update later, or select it to update right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my TV while it is updating?
No. Your TV will be unavailable while the update is installing. The screen will show an update progress bar, and the TV will restart one or more times. Plan for 5 to 15 minutes of downtime depending on the update size. Do not unplug the TV or press buttons on the remote during this time.
Will updating erase my apps and settings?
No. A standard software update preserves your apps, login information, picture settings, and other customizations. Only a factory reset erases those things, which is different from a regular update. If you are concerned, you can write down your important settings before updating, but it is not necessary.
What if my TV says it is up to date but I think there is a newer version?
Your TV is telling you the truth — it has the latest version available for your specific model. Samsung releases updates in stages, so different regions and models may receive them on different dates. If you wait a week or two and check again, a newer version may become available for your TV.
Do I need to do anything special to prepare for an update?
Make sure your TV is plugged in and connected to the internet. Close any apps you are using. You do not need to unplug external devices like a soundbar or cable box — they will not interfere with the update. Just let the TV sit and complete the update without interruption.
Why does my TV keep asking me to update?
This usually means auto-update is turned off and an update is waiting to be installed. Go to Settings, Support, Software Update, and select Check for Updates. Install the pending update, and the notifications should stop. If notifications continue after you install an update, auto-update may be disabled — turn it back on in the Software Update menu.