Samsung TVs update their software through the Settings menu, usually while you're watching or during a scheduled window at night
Your Samsung TV can receive software updates in two ways: automatically, when Samsung pushes an update to your model, or manually, when you check for updates yourself in the Settings menu. Most Samsung TVs are set to update automatically by default, which means the TV will read and install new software without you doing anything. If automatic updates are turned off, you can trigger an update by going to Settings > Support > Software Update and selecting Update Now.
The update process takes anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on the file size and your internet speed. During an update, your TV will restart one or more times—this is normal and expected. You should not unplug the TV or turn it off manually while an update is running, as this can corrupt the software and leave your TV unable to start.
Key Takeaways
- Most Samsung TVs update automatically at night or when you're not watching, but you can manually check for updates in Settings > Support > Software Update.
- An update can take 5 to 30 minutes and will restart your TV multiple times; do not unplug it during this process.
- Your TV must be connected to the internet (Wi-Fi or ethernet) for updates to read and install.
- If an update fails or your TV gets stuck, unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually restarts the process.
Checking whether your TV has automatic updates turned on
To see if your Samsung TV is set to update automatically, open the Settings menu by pressing the remote's Home or Menu button. Navigate to Settings > Support > Software Update. Look for an option called Auto Update or Automatic Update. If it shows On, your TV will read and install updates without prompting you. If it shows Off, you will need to manually check for updates yourself.
Samsung recommends leaving automatic updates on so your TV receives security patches and feature improvements as soon as they are released. If you turn automatic updates off, make a note to check for updates yourself at least once a month by returning to the same Settings menu.
How to manually check for and install an update
If you want to update your TV right away instead of waiting for an automatic update, or if you have automatic updates turned off, you can start the process manually. Press the Home or Menu button on your remote, then go to Settings > Support > Software Update. Select Update Now. Your TV will check Samsung's servers to see if a newer version is available for your model.
If an update is found, your TV will show the version number and ask you to confirm that you want to proceed. Select Yes or OK. The TV will begin downloading the update file, which may take several minutes depending on your internet speed. Once the read is complete, the installation will start automatically, and your TV will restart as needed. Do not turn off the TV or unplug it during this time.
If no update is found, your TV is already running the latest software available for your model. You can close the Settings menu and return to watching.
What to do if your internet connection is weak or drops during an update
A strong, stable internet connection is necessary for updates to read and install properly. If your Wi-Fi signal is weak, move your TV closer to your router, or connect the TV directly to your router using an ethernet cable if your model has an ethernet port. A wired connection is more reliable than Wi-Fi and will reduce the chance of the update being interrupted.
If your internet drops during an update, your TV may pause the read or restart the process. In most cases, the TV will resume the update automatically once the connection is restored. If the update fails and your TV becomes unresponsive, unplug it from the power outlet for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This will force a restart and usually allows the TV to resume or retry the update.
Understanding what happens during a software update
When a Samsung software update runs, your TV will display a progress bar or message on the screen. The TV may go black, show the Samsung logo, or display "Updating" or "Installing" text. You may hear the TV's fan running louder than usual, which is normal—the TV is working harder during the update process. The entire process, from read to final restart, typically takes 5 to 30 minutes.
Your TV will restart one or more times during the update. Each restart is part of the normal process and does not mean something has gone wrong. Once the update is complete, your TV will return to the home screen or the last input you were using before the update started. You can then use your TV normally.
Troubleshooting an update that seems stuck or frozen
If your TV appears to be stuck on an "Updating" screen for more than an hour, or if the progress bar is not moving, the update may have encountered a problem. First, check that your internet connection is still active by looking at your router or testing another device. If the connection is fine, unplug your TV from the power outlet for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This will force a restart and allow the TV to resume the update process.
If the TV still appears stuck after a restart, wait another 15 to 20 minutes before unplugging again. Some updates are genuinely slow on certain models or network speeds. If the TV remains unresponsive after multiple restart attempts, or if it will not turn on at all, contact Samsung Support with your TV's model number. You can find the model number on the back of the TV or in Settings > Support > About This TV.
Why your Samsung TV updates and what changes
Samsung releases software updates to fix bugs, improve performance, add new features, and patch security vulnerabilities. An update might improve the speed of the TV's menu, fix a problem with a specific app like Netflix or YouTube, or add support for a new streaming service. Security updates are especially important because they protect your TV from being hacked or exploited by malicious software.
Most updates are minor and you may not notice any visible change after installation. Larger updates might add new picture settings, improve voice control, or change the layout of the home screen. Samsung does not require you to do anything after an update completes—your TV will work the same way it did before, just with the improvements included in the new software version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my TV while it's updating?
No. During a software update, your TV will be unresponsive and will restart multiple times. You should not try to change the input, adjust the volume, or use any remote functions until the update is complete and your TV returns to normal operation. Plan updates for a time when you are not planning to watch TV.
What if I unplug my TV during an update by accident?
If you unplug your TV during an update, the software installation may be interrupted and could become corrupted. Plug the TV back in when ready. In most cases, the TV will restart and attempt to resume or retry the update. If the TV will not turn on or is stuck in a boot loop, unplug it for 30 seconds and plug it back in again. If this does not work, contact Samsung Support.
Do I need to do anything to prepare my TV for an update?
Make sure your TV is connected to the internet and has a stable connection. If you are using Wi-Fi, may support the signal is strong. You do not need to close apps or clear the TV's storage before an update. straightforward let the update run without interruption. If you have automatic updates enabled, the TV will handle everything on its own.
How often does Samsung release updates?
Samsung releases updates on varying schedules depending on the TV model and age. Newer models typically receive updates more frequently than older ones. There is no fixed monthly or yearly schedule. If you have automatic updates turned on, your TV will receive updates as soon as they are available for your model.
Will an update erase my settings or saved information?
No. A software update will not erase your picture settings, sound settings, app logins, or any other information stored on your TV. Your preferences and saved data will remain the same after the update completes.