How to Reset Your Apple TV to Factory Settings

What resetting your Apple TV does

A factory reset wipes your Apple TV back to the state it left the factory — erasing all your apps, settings, sign-ins, and personal data. The device itself stays the same; you are not replacing hardware or installing new software. After the reset completes, you will see the setup screen you saw when you first turned it on, and you can sign back into your Apple ID and reinstall your apps.

Most people reset an Apple TV because they are selling it, giving it away, troubleshooting a persistent problem, or clearing out years of unused apps and cached data. A reset is also the standard fix when an Apple TV stops responding to the remote or gets stuck in a boot loop.

Key Takeaways

You can reset an Apple TV through Settings on the device itself, or by holding the Menu and Down buttons on the remote for about six seconds if the device is unresponsive.
A factory reset erases all apps, accounts, and settings, so sign out of services like Apple ID and iCloud before you reset if you plan to keep using the device.
The reset process takes five to fifteen minutes depending on your model and internet speed, and the device will restart several times.
After reset, you will need to sign back into your Apple ID and reconnect to Wi-Fi to read apps again.

Resetting through the Settings menu

This is the standard method when your Apple TV is working normally. On your Apple TV remote, press the Home button to go to the main screen. Navigate to Settings, then scroll down and select System. From there, choose Reset, then select Reset and Update. The device will ask you to confirm; select Reset again.

Your Apple TV will restart and begin erasing data. You will see a progress screen. Do not unplug the device or turn it off during this time — let it run until it finishes and shows the setup screen. Depending on your model (4K, HD, or older generations), this can take anywhere from five to fifteen minutes.

Once the reset finishes, your Apple TV will display the initial setup screen in your language. You can now sign into your Apple ID, reconnect to Wi-Fi, and read your apps again. Your previous purchases and subscriptions are tied to your Apple ID, so you will not lose access to them — you are just reinstalling them on a clean device.

Force-resetting an unresponsive Apple TV

If your Apple TV is frozen, not responding to the remote, or stuck on a black screen, you can force a reset using the remote buttons. Hold down the Menu button and the Down arrow button at the same time for about six seconds. You will see a recovery screen appear.

From the recovery menu, select Reset. The device will restart and begin the factory reset process. This method works even if the Apple TV is not responding to normal commands, because the button combination triggers a hardware-level reset that bypasses the software.

If the device does not respond to the button combination after ten seconds, try again. Some older remotes or third-party remotes may not support this feature; if that is the case, you will need to unplug the Apple TV for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try the Settings menu method once it boots up.

What to do before you reset

If you plan to keep using the Apple TV after the reset, sign out of your accounts before you reset. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > iCloud and select Sign Out. This prevents your Apple ID from being locked to the device after the reset. You can sign back in when ready after the reset completes.

If you are giving away or selling the Apple TV, signing out beforehand is essential — it ensures the new owner can set up their own Apple ID without contacting Apple Support. Write down any apps you want to remember to reinstall, though your purchase history will be available once you sign back into your Apple ID.

Back up any photos, videos, or documents stored on the Apple TV if you need them. The reset will erase everything, and there is no built-in backup system for Apple TV the way there is for iPhone or Mac. Once you start the reset, there is no way to stop it or recover data.

Troubleshooting a reset that will not complete

If your Apple TV is stuck on the reset screen or keeps restarting without finishing, the most common cause is a weak Wi-Fi connection or a power interruption. Make sure the device is plugged into a power outlet that is working (test it with another device if you are unsure), and move it closer to your Wi-Fi router if possible.

If the reset still hangs, unplug the Apple TV for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try the reset again from the Settings menu. If it hangs a second time, try the force-reset method using the Menu and Down buttons instead. If neither method works after three attempts, the device may have a hardware problem — contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for diagnosis.

After your Apple TV resets

Once the reset finishes and you see the setup screen, you are back to a blank slate. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your language, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign into your Apple ID. Your Apple TV will then read and install any apps you had before, pulling from your purchase history.

Apps will read in the background, so you do not have to wait for all of them to finish before you start using the device. Streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ will be available, but you will need to sign into each one separately — the reset does not preserve app login information.

If you are setting up the Apple TV for someone else, stop after connecting to Wi-Fi and let them complete the setup with their own Apple ID. This ensures they own their apps and settings, not you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my apps and subscriptions after a reset?

Your apps and subscriptions are tied to your Apple ID, not the device. After you sign back into your Apple ID, you can reinstall all your apps for free. Subscriptions like Apple TV+ and Apple Music will still be active on your account. You will just need to sign into each streaming app separately.

How long does a factory reset take?

A factory reset usually takes five to fifteen minutes from start to finish, depending on your Apple TV model and Wi-Fi speed. The device will restart several times during the process. Do not unplug it or turn it off — let it run until you see the setup screen.

Can I cancel a reset once it starts?

No. Once you confirm the reset in Settings, the process cannot be stopped. This is why it is important to back up any files you need before you start. If you change your mind, you will have to wait for the reset to finish and then restore from a backup if you have one.

What if my Apple TV is stuck in a boot loop after reset?

A boot loop after reset is rare but can happen if there is a power problem or corrupted software. Unplug the device for one full minute, then plug it back in. If it still loops, try the force-reset method using Menu and Down buttons. If the problem persists, contact Apple Support — the device may need service.

Do I need to reset my Apple TV before selling it?

Yes. A factory reset removes all your personal data, apps, and sign-ins. This protects your privacy and ensures the new owner can set up their own Apple ID without interference. Always reset before handing the device to someone else.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.