Change the Language in Settings

To change the language on your Apple TV, go to Settings on the home screen, then select Airplay and HomeKit, and look for Language. The exact path depends on your tvOS version, but the language option is always in the main Settings menu. Once you open it, you'll see a list of available languages — select the one you want, and the interface will switch when ready.

The change takes effect right away. You don't need to restart your Apple TV or sign out. If you picked the wrong language by mistake, you can go back into Settings and switch again using the same path. The language setting controls the text and spoken menus throughout the system, including Siri voice commands if you use them.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings from the home screen, then navigate to Airplay and HomeKit to find the Language option.
  • Select your preferred language from the list, and the change takes effect when ready without restarting.
  • Changing the system language also changes the language for Siri voice commands and on-screen text.
  • If you change your mind, you can return to the same menu and pick a different language at any time.

Where to Find the Language Menu on Different Apple TV Models

The path to language settings is slightly different depending on which Apple TV model you own. On Apple TV 4K (3rd generation and newer) and Apple TV HD, go to Settings, then Airplay and HomeKit, then Language. On older models like the Apple TV 4K (2nd generation), the path is Settings, then AirPlay and HomeKit, then Language — the menu name is the same, just spelled slightly differently.

If you're unsure which model you have, go to Settings and look for About. This screen shows your model name and tvOS version. Once you know what you're working with, the language setting is always in the same general area of the Settings menu, so you won't have to hunt for it.

What Happens When You Change the Language

When you switch languages, the entire interface changes — menus, app names, and system messages all appear in your chosen language. If you use Siri voice commands, Siri will also respond in the new language. However, the language setting only affects the Apple TV system itself, not the apps you read. Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming apps have their own language settings inside each app.

Your Apple ID account, purchase history, and saved passwords remain unchanged when you switch languages. You can change the language back and forth as many times as you want without affecting your account or losing any data.

Supported Languages on Apple TV

Apple TV supports dozens of languages, including English (US and UK), Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Thai, Turkish, Arabic, Hebrew, and many others. The exact list depends on your tvOS version — newer versions sometimes add languages that older versions don't have.

If the language you want isn't in the list, it may not be supported on your model or tvOS version. In that case, you can check the Apple TV support page to see if an update is available that adds your language, or you can keep the system in English and change the language settings inside individual apps instead.

Changing the Language for Individual Apps

The system language controls the Apple TV menus, but each app has its own language settings. To change the language in Netflix, Disney+, or another streaming service, open the app, go to its settings or account menu, and look for a language or audio option. This is separate from the system language, so you can have your Apple TV menus in Spanish and Netflix in English if you want.

Some apps let you choose the language for subtitles, audio tracks, and the menu separately. For example, you might watch a show with English audio and Spanish subtitles while keeping the Netflix menu itself in English. Check each app's settings to see what options are available.

Troubleshooting Language Changes

If you change the language and the menu doesn't update, try restarting your Apple TV. Go to Settings, then System, then Restart. Wait for the device to turn off and back on, which usually takes about 30 seconds. After the restart, the new language should be fully active.

If the language option is missing from your Settings menu, make sure your tvOS is up to date. Go to Settings, then System, then Software Updates, and select Update Software if an update is available. Older tvOS versions sometimes have language settings in a slightly different location, so updating may also help you find the option more easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing the language affect my apps or account?

No. Changing the system language only affects the Apple TV menus and Siri. Your apps, account, and purchase history stay the same. Apps have their own language settings that you control separately inside each app.

Can I use 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 profile's language takes effect. Go to Settings, then Users and Accounts, to set up multiple profiles with different languages.

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

You can still change it back. Go to Settings (the gear icon is usually in the same place in any language), then look for the option that looks like it controls system preferences — it's typically the second or third menu item. Select the language option and pick English or your preferred language from the list.

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

No, the change takes effect when ready. However, if the menu doesn't update right away, a restart can help. Go to Settings, System, Restart, and wait for the device to turn back on.

Can I change the language for subtitles separately from the system language?

Yes. The system language controls the menus, but each app lets you set subtitle and audio languages independently. Open any streaming app, go to its settings, and look for audio or subtitle options to choose languages for what you're watching.