How to Upgrade Your Apple TV to the Latest Model

When and why to upgrade your Apple TV

You should upgrade your Apple TV when the model you own no longer supports the apps and features you use regularly, or when Apple stops releasing software updates for it. Apple typically supports each Apple TV model for five to seven years after release, but older hardware eventually cannot run current versions of tvOS, the operating system that powers the device.

The most common reasons to upgrade are: your current model cannot install the latest tvOS version, apps you rely on (like streaming services) no longer work on your device, the remote is damaged beyond repair, or you want access to newer features like Thread support for smart home devices or improved processing power for gaming. Before you upgrade, check whether your current model still receives updates by going to Settings > System > About on your Apple TV and looking at the tvOS version number.

Key Takeaways

Apple TV models from 2015 and earlier cannot run current tvOS versions and will eventually lose access to major streaming apps.
You can check your current model's age and supported features by going to Settings > System > About and comparing the tvOS version to Apple's official support documents.
The current Apple TV lineup includes the 4K model (third generation, released 2022) and the HD model, each with different processing power and port options.
Your existing Apple TV remote, AirPlay connections, and HomeKit automations will work with a new Apple TV, though you may need to re-sign into apps.
Selling or donating your old Apple TV requires erasing it first through Settings > System > Reset, which removes all your personal data and sign-ins.

Identify which Apple TV model you currently own

Open Settings on your Apple TV and select System, then About. Write down the model name and tvOS version shown on the screen. This tells you exactly what you have and whether it can still receive updates. Apple TV models are named by generation and capability: for example, "Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)" or "Apple TV HD."

If your model is from 2015 or earlier—such as Apple TV (4th generation) or Apple TV (3rd generation)—it will not run tvOS 17 or later, and major apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube have already stopped supporting it or will soon. Models from 2017 onward (Apple TV 4K, first and second generation) can run current software but may lack newer features like Thread or the latest processor for gaming performance.

Compare the current Apple TV lineup

Apple currently sells two models: the Apple TV 4K (third generation, 2022) and the Apple TV HD. The 4K model has a faster processor, supports 4K and HDR video output, includes Thread support for smart home devices, and costs more. The HD model outputs video at 1080p resolution, has an older processor, and costs less—it is suitable if you have a 1080p television or do not use HomeKit extensively.

Both models come with the same Siri Remote (second generation), which has a clickpad instead of the older touch surface. Both support AirPlay, HomeKit, and all current streaming apps. The main difference is processing power and video resolution. If you own a 4K television or plan to use Apple TV for gaming, the 4K model is the better choice. If you have a 1080p television and mainly watch streaming video, the HD model will work fine.

Check the storage capacity when you purchase. Both models come in 64 GB and 128 GB versions. Most people do not need more than 64 GB because apps stream content rather than storing it locally, but if you plan to install many games or use local file storage, 128 GB gives you more room.

Purchase and set up your new Apple TV

Buy your new Apple TV directly from Apple's website, an Apple Store, or an authorized retailer. You will receive the device, the Siri Remote, a USB-C power cable, and an HDMI cable. Unbox the device and connect it to your television using the HDMI cable, then plug in the power cable.

When you turn on the new Apple TV, it will ask you to sign in with your Apple ID. Use the same Apple ID you used on your old Apple TV—this automatically restores your HomeKit configuration, AirPlay settings, and app preferences. You will still need to sign into individual apps like Netflix or Disney+ with your account credentials, but your home automation setup and device connections transfer automatically.

If you do not remember your Apple ID password, use another Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) to sign in on the new Apple TV instead. The setup process will recognize your device and let you approve the sign-in without typing the password.

Transfer your settings and HomeKit automations

When you sign in with the same Apple ID on your new Apple TV, HomeKit automations, scenes, and room assignments transfer automatically. Your smart home devices will recognize the new Apple TV as a hub if it is set up in the same home in the Home app on your iPhone or iPad.

AirPlay connections also transfer—your iPhone, iPad, and Mac will see the new Apple TV in the AirPlay menu without additional setup. Bluetooth connections to your old remote will not transfer; you will use the new Siri Remote that came with the device. If you want to keep using your old remote as a backup, you can pair it by holding it near the new Apple TV and following the pairing prompt, though Apple recommends using the newer remote for best performance.

Erase and dispose of your old Apple TV

Before you sell, donate, or recycle your old Apple TV, erase all your personal data. Go to Settings > System > Reset and select Erase All Content and Settings. This removes your Apple ID sign-in, app accounts, HomeKit data, and any files you stored on the device. The process takes a few minutes and will restart the device when finished.

After erasing, you can sell the device on a marketplace like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, donate it to a local charity or school, or take it to an electronics recycling center. Apple Stores also accept old Apple TV devices for recycling at no cost. Do not throw it in the trash—electronics contain materials that should be recycled properly.

Troubleshoot common upgrade issues

If apps do not sign you in automatically after setup, go to each app and sign in manually with your account credentials. This is normal—app passwords are not transferred for security reasons. If HomeKit automations do not appear on the new Apple TV, check that both the old and new devices are signed in with the same Apple ID and are in the same home in the Home app on your iPhone.

If the new Apple TV does not appear as a HomeKit hub, make sure it is plugged in and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your other HomeKit devices. HomeKit hubs must be plugged in at all times to function. If you see a message that says "No Hub Available," restart the new Apple TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

If you cannot sign in with your Apple ID during setup, restart the Apple TV and try again. If the problem continues, reset the device to factory settings by holding the Menu and Down buttons on the Siri Remote for about six seconds until the light on the device flashes, then set it up again from the beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old Apple TV remote with the new model?

Yes, you can pair an older Siri Remote or Apple Remote with the new Apple TV by holding it near the device during setup or by going to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Remote. However, Apple recommends using the Siri Remote that came with your new device because it has the latest features and better compatibility.

Will my streaming app accounts transfer to the new Apple TV?

Your app preferences and HomeKit settings transfer when you sign in with the same Apple ID, but you will need to sign into each streaming app (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) separately with your account username and password. This is a security measure and takes only a few minutes per app.

What happens to my HomeKit automations when I upgrade?

HomeKit automations transfer automatically when you sign in with the same Apple ID on the new Apple TV. Make sure the new device is set as a HomeKit hub in the Home app on your iPhone or iPad so automations continue to run when you are away from home.

Do I need to buy a new HDMI cable for the new Apple TV?

The new Apple TV comes with an HDMI cable, so you do not need to buy one. However, if your television is far from where you want to place the Apple TV, you may want a longer HDMI cable, which you can purchase separately at any electronics store.

Can I return my old Apple TV for credit toward the new one?

Apple does not offer trade-in credit for old Apple TV models, but you can sell your old device on a marketplace or donate it. Some retailers may offer store credit if you bring in your old device, so check with the store where you plan to purchase the new Apple TV.

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.