What a reset does and when you need one
A reset wipes your Apple TV back to the state it left the factory — all your apps, passwords, and settings disappear. You should reset your Apple TV if it's running slowly, an app keeps crashing, you're selling or giving it away, or you've forgotten your Apple ID password and can't sign in. A reset is also the first troubleshooting step Apple support will ask you to try before replacing the device.
There are two types of reset: a soft reset (restart) and a factory reset. A soft reset turns the device off and back on without erasing anything — try this first for freezing or app crashes. A factory reset erases everything and takes longer, but fixes deeper problems.
Key Takeaways
- A soft reset (restart) fixes most temporary problems like freezing or a single app crashing, and takes less than a minute.
- A factory reset erases all apps, settings, and sign-ins, so only do this if a restart didn't work or you're giving the device away.
- You can restart from the remote or the Settings menu; a factory reset must be done through Settings.
- After a factory reset, you'll need to sign in with your Apple ID again and reinstall your apps.
- If your Apple TV won't turn on or respond to the remote, try unplugging it for 30 seconds before attempting a reset.
How to do a soft reset (restart) using the remote
The fastest way to restart is with the Siri Remote or Apple TV Remote. Hold down the Menu and TV/Control Center buttons at the same time for about three seconds. The screen will go black, and your Apple TV will restart. This usually takes 30 to 60 seconds.
If you're using an older Apple TV (4th generation or earlier), the button combination is different: hold Menu and Play/Pause together for six seconds instead. The device will restart the same way.
A soft restart doesn't erase anything — all your apps and settings stay exactly as they were. If the problem returns after a restart, move on to a factory reset.
How to do a soft reset through the Settings menu
You can also restart from the Settings menu if your remote isn't working or you prefer the menu route. Go to Settings > System > Restart. Select Restart and confirm. The device will turn off and back on, which takes about a minute.
This method works the same way as the remote button combination — nothing is erased, and all your apps and passwords stay in place.
How to factory reset your Apple TV
A factory reset must be done through the Settings menu. Go to Settings > System > Reset. You'll see two options: Reset (which resets settings but keeps apps) and Reset and Update (which erases everything and installs the latest software). Choose Reset and Update if you want a complete wipe.
Select your choice and confirm. The Apple TV will restart and begin erasing data — this can take 5 to 15 minutes depending on how much is stored. The screen will show a progress bar. Do not unplug the device during this time.
When the reset finishes, you'll see the setup screen, just like when the Apple TV was new. You'll need to sign in with your Apple ID, connect to Wi-Fi again, and reinstall any apps you want. Your previous apps and settings are gone.
What to do if your Apple TV won't respond to the remote
If your Apple TV is frozen and the remote won't work, try a hard reset: unplug the power cable from the back of the device, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. The device will restart on its own. This is not the same as a factory reset — nothing is erased.
If the device still won't respond after 30 seconds, unplug it again and wait a full minute before plugging back in. If it still doesn't work, check that the remote has fresh batteries and is pointed directly at the Apple TV. If the remote still doesn't respond, the remote batteries may be dead or the remote itself may need repair.
Resetting your Apple TV before selling or giving it away
Before you hand over your Apple TV to someone else, do a factory reset to remove all your personal information. Go to Settings > System > Reset and choose Reset and Update. This erases your Apple ID, passwords, payment methods, and all apps.
The new owner will see the setup screen and can sign in with their own Apple ID. Make sure the reset finishes completely before you hand it over — don't unplug it during the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a restart erase my apps and passwords?
No. A soft restart (using the remote buttons or the Restart menu option) turns the device off and back on without erasing anything. All your apps, passwords, and settings stay in place. Only a factory reset erases data.
How long does a factory reset take?
A factory reset usually takes 5 to 15 minutes from start to finish. The screen will show a progress bar. Do not unplug the device while it's resetting, or you may damage it.
What do I do after a factory reset?
After the reset finishes, you'll see the setup screen. Sign in with your Apple ID, connect to Wi-Fi, and then reinstall your apps from the App Store. Your previous apps and settings are gone and cannot be recovered.
Can I undo a factory reset?
No. A factory reset permanently erases all data on the device. If you have a backup from iCloud, you can sign in with your Apple ID after the reset and some settings may restore, but apps must be reinstalled manually.
What if my Apple TV is still broken after a factory reset?
If the problem continues after a factory reset and a restart, the device may have a hardware problem. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. Bring your proof of purchase if the device is still under warranty.