Change the language in Settings on your Apple TV box or device

Open Settings on your Apple TV. Go to Airplay and HomeKit, then select Language and Region. Choose your preferred language from the list. The interface will switch when ready, and you can restart the device if the change doesn't take effect right away.

If you're using an older Apple TV model (4th generation or earlier), the path is slightly different: go to Settings > General > Language and pick your language. The menu will update as soon as you select it.

The language you set here controls the system menus, on-screen text, and voice prompts. It does not change the language of movies, shows, or apps unless you adjust those settings separately within each app.

Key Takeaways

  • On newer Apple TV models, language settings are in Settings > Airplay and HomeKit > Language and Region.
  • On older Apple TV boxes (4th generation and earlier), go to Settings > General > Language.
  • Changing the system language affects menus and text but not the audio or subtitles of individual shows or movies.
  • The change takes effect when ready, though restarting the device can help if the interface doesn't update right away.
  • You can change the language back at any time by returning to the same settings menu.

Change audio language for a specific show or movie

The system language and the language of what you're watching are separate. To change the audio language for a show or movie, start playing it, then press the Menu button on your remote (or swipe down on the Siri Remote). Look for Audio and Subtitles or Audio Languages.

A list of available audio tracks will appear. Select the language you want. Not all shows and movies offer multiple audio languages—what's available depends on the content provider and the version of the title in your region.

If you don't see an audio language option, the content may only be available in one language. Subtitles in different languages are usually found in the same menu under Subtitles or Closed Captions.

Change subtitles to a different language

While playing a show or movie, press Menu on your remote and select Subtitles or Closed Captions. A list of available subtitle languages will appear. Choose the one you want, or select Off to turn subtitles off.

Like audio languages, the subtitle options available depend on what the content provider has included. Some titles have many subtitle languages; others have none. If a language you need isn't listed, it may not be available for that particular title.

Adjust regional settings for time, date, and currency

Your Language and Region settings also control how dates, times, and currency appear on your Apple TV. If you want the date to show in a different format or the time in 12-hour or 24-hour mode, these options are usually in the same menu where you set the language.

Some apps may use these regional settings to show prices in your local currency or to determine which version of a service to display. Changing your region can affect which content is available in certain apps, so only adjust this if you're moving or want to see content from a different country.

Troubleshoot if the language won't change

If you change the language but the menu stays in the old language, restart your Apple TV. Unplug it from power for 10 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for it to fully boot up—this usually takes a minute or two.

If the problem persists, check that you're in the correct settings menu. On newer models, confirm you're in Settings > Airplay and HomeKit > Language and Region. On older models, make sure you're in Settings > General > Language. If you're still stuck, try resetting the Apple TV to factory settings, though this will erase all your preferences and sign-outs. Go to Settings > System > Reset and choose Reset and Update.

What to do if your language isn't in the list

Apple TV supports dozens of languages, but not every language is available in every region. If your language doesn't appear in the Language and Region menu, it may not be supported on your model or in your country.

You can still watch content in other languages by using subtitles or by looking for apps that support your language. Some streaming services have their own language settings separate from the Apple TV system language, so check within each app to see what options are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing the language affect my apps?

The system language change affects Apple TV's menus and built-in features. Most apps will follow the system language, but some apps have their own language settings. Check inside each app if you want to set a different language for that specific service.

Can I set different languages for different user profiles?

Yes. Each user profile on your Apple TV can have its own language setting. When a different person signs in, their language preference will load automatically. Set this up in Settings > Users and Accounts, then select each profile and adjust its language.

What if I accidentally change the language to one I don't understand?

Go back to Settings (the gear icon is usually in the same place in any language). Look for the option that looks like a globe or says "Language" or "Region"—it's typically the fourth or fifth option from the top. Select it and choose a language you recognize.

Do I need to restart Apple TV after changing the language?

Usually the change takes effect when ready. If the menus don't update right away, unplug the device for 10 seconds and plug it back in. A full restart often clears up any display issues.

Can I change the language of Siri on Apple TV?

Siri uses the system language you set in Language and Region. If you change the system language, Siri will respond in that language. Some languages may have limited Siri support, so voice commands might not work in every language.