How to reset Apple TV

By Technobezz

First Published on October 06, 2022 | RECENTLY REVISED

Mobilebezz is both a category and a property of Technobezz

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Apple TV is a handy device as it allows users to do multiple activities in one place. It uses the latest technology; you can watch movies, play games, and even connect to your other Apple devices. You can configure the settings according to your preferences and enjoy a smooth interface.

But there can be many reasons you want to reset your TV; you may want to sell it, or there may be a black screen glitch and maybe even lagging or buffering. Resetting your television will get it back to the factory settings, and all of your preferred configurations will get erased, so be sure before taking this action, as it can't be reverted. If you have made up your mind and want to reset your device, here's how you can do it.

Identifying the generation of your Apple TV

You can identify the version of your television by knowing its model number. To determine the model number of your set, go to settings, and select "About" in the general section. Scroll down on the screen to find the model number.

The model numbers and the generations they belong to are –

A1218- 1^st generation
A1378- 2^nd generation
A1427/A1469- 3^rd generation
A1625- HD TV
A1842- 4K TV

You can also find the model number on the bottom of your TV, written on the first line near the middle.

Resetting Apple TV - 4K and HD

To do this,

Go to Settings and click on System
Next, click Reset.
There will be two options: Reset or Reset and Update. The former is the quickest way to bring the TV to its factory settings and doesn't require internet. In contrast, the latter also updates and installs the software in addition to returning to the factory setting, so it requires an internet connection. Don't unplug your TV from the main power source while it is resetting.

Resetting Apple TV- 3^rd generation or earlier

Go to Settings and click the General option.
Click Reset. You will now have two options to choose from: Reset all settings, or Restore.
If you choose the first one, it will restore your settings to factory mode and erase your accounts and desired configurations.
Choosing the second option will also update the software and restore the system to the factory settings. Affirm that your TV is plugged into the power source during the whole process, and after it is done, you can set it up again according to your needs.

Resetting using your personal computer

To reset the Apple TV using this method, disconnect your television from the power source. Also, disconnect the HDMI cable. Connect both devices using a USB cable if your TV is 4^th generation. Use a Micro-USB cord to connect your PC and the Apple TV for earlier devices. Plugin the power cord for HD and 3^rd generation devices but leave it unplugged from the 2^nd generation TV set.

After the above process is done, install iTunes on your personal computer and if you have a Mac, make sure that iTunes is up to date. For OS Mojave and earlier, launch the app, select your Apple TV name from the list of devices, and click on restore from the options shown. If the Mac has OS Catalina or later versions, open the finder, click on your Apple TV from the roll, and select restore. Once the resetting process has been completed, plug your TV back into the power source.