On Apple TV, open Settings > System > Software Updates to check the system software or enable automatic updates. Keep power and network connected during the supported update. The app’s version and tvOS version are separate records.
Record the two software layers
Note the Apple TV model, installed system version and affected player’s version. A store update to the player does not establish that the operating system changed. Conversely, a system update does not prove that every installed independent app is current. Keep the original fault and its time before beginning maintenance.
Use the owner’s normal account and authorised update route. This guide concerns Apple TV system software, not an iPhone update, a Mac installer or an Android package. If the device is managed, follow its administrator’s policy.
When a player publisher names a minimum version, write the requirement beside the version it refers to. Record both installed versions before using the supported update route.
Choose automatic or manual updating
Apple provides both a future preference and an immediate check. Use the one that matches the task.
- Open System, then Software Updates.
- For a future preference, set Automatically Update as intended.
- For a current check, select Update Software.
- If an update is offered, use Download and Install.
- Leave Apple TV connected to power and its network until the documented restart and installation sequence completes.
Read the exact update state
A download, preparation and installation can produce different screens. Apple’s guide distinguishes a Preparing or Applying message from a stalled Apple-logo display without text. Do not substitute a generic unplugging recipe for those different states. If a progress screen persists, follow the current guide’s stated waiting and support route for that exact screen.
A remote source becoming unavailable while the device is updating is not evidence that the service term expired. Complete or resolve the supported maintenance step, then return to the original player action. Record what actually changed rather than treating an update check as a playback test.
Verify the intended result
After Apple TV returns normally, record the resulting system and app versions. Repeat the original action and use its observed result to choose the next check.
| After the check | Useful next action |
|---|---|
| Required versions now present; failure remains | Give publisher the exact reproduction and both versions. |
| No eligible update offered | Ask Apple/publisher about this model’s supported range. |
| Update has not completed | Resolve the documented update state first. |
| App works; one source still fails | Return to item/format/account investigation. |
Sources and review
- Update your Apple TV — Apple