Check for updates and install them directly on your device

Apple TV updates automatically by default, but you can check for and install updates manually whenever you want. Go to Settings on your Apple TV home screen, then select System > Software Updates. If an update is available, you'll see an Update button. Select it, and your Apple TV will read and install the new software. The device will restart during this process, so plan for a few minutes of downtime.

If no update appears, your Apple TV is already running the latest version. You can also check the current software version in that same Settings > System menu — it shows under About. Write down the version number if you need to troubleshoot with Apple Support later.

Key Takeaways

  • Updates install through Settings > System > Software Updates on your Apple TV itself, not through a computer or phone.
  • Apple TV checks for updates automatically overnight when plugged in and idle, so most devices update without you doing anything.
  • Manual updates take five to fifteen minutes depending on file size, and your TV will restart during installation.
  • If an update fails or gets stuck, unplugging the device for thirty seconds and trying again usually fixes the problem.

Turn on automatic updates so you don't have to check manually

By default, Apple TV is set to read and install updates automatically. This happens when your device is plugged in, connected to the internet, and idle — usually overnight. You don't need to do anything; the updates happen in the background.

If you want to confirm automatic updates are on, go to Settings > System > Software Updates and look for an Automatic Updates toggle. If it's on (the switch will be green), your device will keep itself current. If you've turned it off and want to re-enable it, toggle it back on.

What to do if an update gets stuck or fails

Sometimes an update stalls partway through, or your Apple TV shows an error message. The first step is to unplug the device from power for thirty seconds, then plug it back in. This clears temporary files and often lets the update resume or restart cleanly.

If the update still won't complete after a restart, check your internet connection — Apple TV needs a stable, reasonably fast connection to read updates. Walk over to your router and make sure your Apple TV is still connected to Wi-Fi. If the connection dropped, reconnect and try the update again from Settings > System > Software Updates.

If the problem persists after two or three attempts, contact Apple Support. They can walk you through a factory reset if needed, though that erases all your settings and apps, so it's a last resort.

Updates from a computer or iPhone aren't necessary

Unlike older Apple devices, you cannot update Apple TV through a Mac or Windows computer, and you don't need to. All updates happen directly on the device itself through the Settings menu. If you see instructions online telling you to plug your Apple TV into a computer or use iTunes, those are outdated — ignore them.

You also don't need to update through the Apple TV app on your iPhone or iPad. That app lets you control your Apple TV and browse content, but software updates only come through the device's own Settings menu.

Why updates matter and what they include

Apple TV updates include security patches, bug fixes, and sometimes new features. Security patches are the most important — they close vulnerabilities that could let someone access your device or your Apple account. Keeping your Apple TV current protects your personal information and keeps the device running smoothly.

Updates also fix problems like apps crashing, streaming stuttering, or remote controls not responding. If you've noticed your Apple TV acting sluggish or an app freezing, an available update might solve it. That's another reason to check Settings > System > Software Updates if something feels off.

How long updates take and what happens during installation

A typical Apple TV update takes five to fifteen minutes from start to finish, depending on the file size and your internet speed. During installation, your screen will show a progress bar. Do not unplug the device or turn off your TV while the update is running — interrupting it can damage the software and force you to contact Apple Support.

Your Apple TV will restart one or more times during the update process. This is normal. Once the restart is complete and you see the home screen again, the update is finished. If you had apps open before the update, they'll still be there when it's done.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Apple TV while an update is installing?

No. Once you start an update, your Apple TV will restart and be unavailable until the installation finishes. Plan the update for a time when you're not using the device — early morning or late evening works well. Automatic updates happen overnight, so you won't notice them.

What if my Apple TV won't connect to the internet and I can't update?

Check that your Wi-Fi is working by testing it on another device. If Wi-Fi is down, fix that first. If other devices connect fine but Apple TV doesn't, try forgetting the network in Settings > Network and reconnecting with your password. If it still won't connect, restart your router and Apple TV both.

Do I lose my apps and settings when I update?

No. A normal software update keeps all your apps, logins, and settings intact. You only lose data if you do a factory reset, which is different from a regular update. A factory reset erases everything and should only be done if Apple Support tells you to.

Is it safe to update Apple TV, or could something go wrong?

Updates are safe and tested before Apple releases them. The only real risk is unplugging the device during installation, which can corrupt the software. As long as you leave it plugged in and don't interrupt the process, the update will complete successfully.