It is important to update your Apple TV periodically to run with a new version. This will ensure the device has the latest security patches and features and remove the associated bugs. You can enable the automatic update option on your device settings to update the firmware automatically.
For manual updating, you can navigate to the settings using your Apple TV remote. In case of a lost or damaged remote, you can use the iPhone or iPad as a remote control to carry out the update process. This article explains the possible ways to update the firmware on all Apple TVs.
How to Update Your Apple TV Firmware Automatically
1. Turn on your Apple TV using the remote and go to Settings.
2. Select System from the menu and choose Software Updates.
3. On the next screen, select Automatically Update and turn it on.
![turn on Automatically Update - How to Update Apple TV](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-turn-on-Automatically-Update.png)
From now on, your Apple TV will automatically download new updates whenever they are released. If you want to experience the latest beta update features, enable the Get Beta Updates feature.
How to Update Apple TV Manually
1. On the Apple TV home screen, tap Settings and choose System.
2. Select Software Updates from the options and choose Update Software. Now, your Apple TV will search for any updates available for your Apple TV.
![select Update Software](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-select-Update-Software.png)
3. If available, select Download and Install. The new software will now start to install, and your Apple TV will restart automatically after updating.
![select Download and Install](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-select-Download-and-Install.png)
How to Update Apple TV Without Remote
If your Apple TV remote is not working, you can use your iPhone or iPad to update your Apple TV software without a remote. This is possible using the Apple TV Remote app in the Control Center, which is available by default on all the latest versions of iPads and iPhones.
If you can’t see the Remote function in the Control Center, you can add it by going to Settings → Control Centre, and tapping the + icon next to Apple TV Remote. Once done, connect your Apple TV to the same WiFi as your iPhone or iPad. Click the Remote icon in your device’s Control Center and select Apple TV to connect. Then, use the remote interface to go to settings and update your Apple TV firmware.
How to Update Apple TV Box with iTunes
1. Eject the HDMI cable from your Apple TV and unplug the power cord and LAN cable (if plugged in).
2. Take a micro USB cable and connect one end to your Apple TV’s backside. Connect the other end to your Windows or Mac.
3. Launch the iTunes app on your computer. Under Devices, your Apple TV will be displayed. Highlight your device and tap the Restore button.
![Click Restore in the iTunes app on your Windows or Mac](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-15.jpg)
4. Once you click Restore, it will display a few prompts. Click Check to continue.
5. Tap Restore and Update on the next pop-up menu.
![Tap Restore and Update](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-13.jpg)
6. The Apple TV Software Restore dialog box will appear. Tap Next to continue.
![Click Next on Apple TV software restore window](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-12.jpg)
6. Click Agree to Accept the terms and conditions of the Apple TV software license agreement.
7. The download progress is shown at the top of the window. Once completed, it will restore the Apple TV to its factory settings.
![Click OK on the pop-up menu to finish the update process](https://www.appletvlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-to-Update-Apple-TV-11.jpg)
8. Then, click OK on the pop-up.
Unplug your Apple TV from the PC and connect it to your TV. Check whether your Apple TV streaming device has reflected the new features. Remember that it will only update the Apple TV firmware, not the installed apps. To update apps on your Apple TV, you must visit the App Store and do it.