Apple TV flashes - you can do that
If the LED on the Apple TV flashes, this is usually not a good sign. We'll show you how to fix the problem and get your Apple TV back up and running.
Apple TV flashes - what's the problem?
- If your Apple TV is blinking, there is often a more serious problem. If you can still operate the device, a simple restart is sufficient in the best case.
- If the Apple TV stops responding or nothing appears, this is a much worse sign. Often only a reset to the factory settings helps.
First aid: Force restart of the flashing Apple TV
You can use the remote control, the Apple Remote, to force the device to restart. Only if that doesn't work, briefly disconnect the Apple TV from the power and then plug it in again.
- Apple TV 4: Press and hold the Menu button and the Home button on the remote at the same time. Do not let go until the Apple TV restarts.
- Apple TV 2 & 3: Hold down the Menu key and the Down key at the same time, and don't let go until the device turns off.
Apple TV flashes: reset device
If the LED flashes for more than 3 minutes, Apple recommends a hard reset. All content and settings on the Apple TV are deleted. If you can still operate the device, reset the Apple TV using the following instructions. Otherwise, follow these steps:
- Connect your Apple TV to your computer or Mac using a USB cable and start iTunes.
- Wait a moment, then select the Apple TV in the top left corner of iTunes.
- Click the "Restore Apple TV" button at the top right and follow the instructions.
- Then the Apple TV is reset and the latest firmware is installed.