As simple as this device may seem, the Apple TV has sophisticated software that, like other products of the brand, receives updates from time to time. If you are experiencing any failure or problem to update your Apple TV, do not worry because in this article we will try to help you solve it.
Is it possible to keep updating your Apple TV?
Apple gives its devices a long useful life when it comes to software updates, although unfortunately there will come a day when it will no longer receive support in this regard. Therefore, one of the possible reasons why your Apple TV cannot be updated may come from precisely not receiving more support. This is the latest software that every existing Apple TV supports:
- Apple TV (original): up to Apple TV Software 3.0.2
- Apple TV (2nd generation): up to tvOS 6.2.1
- Apple TV (3rd generation): up to tvOS 7.6.2
- Apple TV HD – Keeps updating (tvOS 14 and later)
- Apple TV 4K: Keeping Upgrading (tvOS 14 and Later)
Typical, but effective: reboot the device
There are times when the dumbest solution ends up being the right one. It is possible that there is some process in the background that is preventing the correct operation of the Apple TV and, therefore, not allowing you to update its software. We recommend that you first try putting the device into sleep mode and then restart it and try to download the update.
If the previous method has not worked for you, what you could do now is not just leave it idle but disconnect it from the power for several seconds. Once this is done, put the Apple TV back into operation and try again. If you’re still unsuccessful, keep reading this article.
Check the internet connection of the device
It sounds very obvious, but in many cases the failures to update the Apple TV lie in not having an internet connection. If you have it connected by cable, check that it is in good condition and proceed to change it for another in case of doubts about its operation. If you connect it to the network via WiFi, check the settings that it is connected. We even recommend running a speed test with another device (mobile, tablet or computer) to verify that the connection is fast enough. Any problem in this regard should be consulted with the company that provides you with the internet.
What if the download is very slow?
The first thing to keep in mind is that tvOS, despite not being as massive a software as the iPhone, could be the victim of a server crash. If there are many users trying to update their Apple TV at the same time, it is logical to find a delay in the download and even errors that prevent the process from finishing. This happens especially in the hours after the release of a new version, so the recommendation we make is to wait for a few hours to proceed to update it. That or arm yourself with patience, although you should also bear in mind that the slowness could also be due to the fact that the version you are downloading is very heavy.
Contact Apple if necessary
If, despite following the tips in this article, you are still experiencing problems, perhaps the best solution is to contact Apple. Many times it is enough to receive support by email, chat or telephone to solve it, but if not, you can make an appointment at an Apple Store for specialist technicians to review the device and find the origin of the problem. The cost of this repair will vary depending on whether you have a warranty and what the problem is. If it is detected that it is a factory defect or any other problem other than misuse, the repair or replacement device may be free. In any case, you can request all the information from Apple without any kind of commitment.
