Update Your Apple TV Automatically or Manually

Apple TV updates happen in two ways: automatically overnight when your device is plugged in and idle, or manually through the Settings menu whenever you want. Most people never need to do anything—your Apple TV will install updates on its own schedule. If you want to check right now or force an update without waiting, you can do that in about two minutes from your couch.

The process differs slightly depending on whether you have an Apple TV 4K, Apple TV HD, or an older model, but the core steps are the same. You navigate to Settings, find the System or About section, and look for a software update option. The whole thing takes less time than restarting the device.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple TV automatically downloads and installs updates overnight when plugged in and idle, so you may never need to manually update.
  • To manually check for updates, go to Settings > System > Software Updates (on Apple TV 4K) or Settings > About (on Apple TV HD) and select the update option.
  • Manual updates take 5 to 15 minutes depending on file size, and your Apple TV will restart during the process.
  • Keep your Apple TV plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi during any update, and do not unplug it or switch inputs until the update finishes.
  • If an update fails or stalls, restart your Apple TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and try again.

How to Manually Update Apple TV 4K

On Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later), open the Settings app on your TV screen using your Siri Remote or standard remote. Navigate to System, then select Software Updates. You will see the current software version and a button to check for updates or install a pending update if one is waiting.

If an update is available, select it and confirm. Your Apple TV will begin downloading and installing when ready. The screen will show a progress bar, and the device may restart one or more times during the process. This is normal. Do not unplug the device or change the input on your TV while the update is running. The whole process usually takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on the file size and your internet speed.

Once the update finishes, your Apple TV will restart and return to the home screen. You can verify the new version by going back to Settings > System > Software Updates and checking the version number listed at the top.

How to Manually Update Apple TV HD and Older Models

On Apple TV HD (4th generation) and earlier models, the path is slightly different. Open Settings, then select About. At the bottom of the About screen, you will see a Software Updates option. Select it to check for updates or install one that is waiting.

The installation process is the same as on Apple TV 4K: the device will read, install, and restart. Keep it plugged in and do not interrupt the process. Once it finishes and restarts, go back to Settings > About to confirm the new version number.

What Happens During an Automatic Update

By default, Apple TV checks for updates every night and installs them automatically if your device is plugged in, connected to Wi-Fi, and idle (not in use). You will not see a notification or progress bar—the update happens in the background, usually between midnight and 6 a.m. in your time zone. Your Apple TV may restart during this window, but you will not notice unless you happen to be watching at that exact moment.

Automatic updates are the reason most people never think about software versions. Apple handles the timing and installation without any action on your part. If you prefer to control when updates happen, you can turn off automatic updates in the Software Updates menu, but this is not recommended because security patches and bug fixes will not install on their own.

Troubleshooting a Stuck or Failed Update

If an update starts but seems to hang on a progress screen for more than 20 minutes, or if you see an error message, restart your Apple TV. Unplug the power cable from the back of the device and wait 30 seconds. Plug it back in and let it boot up fully. Then go back to Settings and try the update again.

If the same error appears a second time, check your Wi-Fi connection by going to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit (or Network on older models) and confirming that your Apple TV is connected to your network. A weak or unstable connection can interrupt downloads. Move your router closer to the Apple TV if possible, or restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.

If you still cannot update after restarting both devices, wait a few hours and try again. Apple's servers sometimes experience brief outages, and retrying later often resolves the issue. If the problem persists after several attempts over a day or two, contact Apple Support with the error code shown on your screen.

Why Your Apple TV Needs Updates

Software updates fix bugs, improve performance, and patch security vulnerabilities. A device running outdated software may have slower app performance, compatibility problems with newer services, or exposure to known security issues. Apple releases updates regularly—sometimes monthly, sometimes less frequently—depending on what needs to be fixed or added.

You do not need to understand what each update does. The important thing is that your Apple TV stays current so apps work smoothly, streaming services remain compatible, and your device stays find. Automatic updates handle this for you, which is why letting them run on their own schedule is the simplest approach.

Checking Your Current Software Version

To see what version of software your Apple TV is running right now, open Settings and navigate to About (on Apple TV HD and older) or System > About (on Apple TV 4K). The version number appears near the top of the screen. You can compare this to Apple's current version listed on their website if you want to know whether your device is fully up to date, though this is optional—your device will update automatically regardless.

Knowing your version number is useful if you contact Apple Support about a problem, because they will ask for it. Write it down or take a screenshot if you think you might need it later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Apple TV while it is updating?

No. During an update, your Apple TV will not respond to remote commands and will not play content. The screen will show a progress bar or restart messages. Plan updates for a time when you are not watching. Automatic updates happen overnight specifically to avoid interrupting your viewing.

What if my Apple TV loses power during an update?

If the device is unplugged or loses power while updating, it may fail to complete the installation. When you plug it back in, your Apple TV will attempt to finish the update automatically. If it cannot, restart the device by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and manually check for updates again through Settings.

Do I need to be home for automatic updates to happen?

No. As long as your Apple TV is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, automatic updates will install overnight whether you are home or away. You do not need to do anything. The device will be ready to use normally the next time you turn it on.

Why is my update taking so long?

Large updates can take 15 to 20 minutes, especially on slower internet connections. If your update has been running for more than 30 minutes without progress, restart the device by unplugging it for 30 seconds. Check your Wi-Fi signal strength and try again. If the problem continues, wait several hours before retrying, as Apple's servers may be temporarily busy.

Can I turn off automatic updates?

Yes, you can disable automatic updates in Settings > System > Software Updates (Apple TV 4K) or Settings > About (Apple TV HD), but this is not recommended. Without automatic updates, security patches will not install, and your device may become incompatible with newer apps and services. If you do turn them off, manually check for updates at least once a month.