How to Set Up Your Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation)

What You Will Need

• Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation) and included power cord
• An HDMI 2.1 cable (sold separately; required for 4K HDR output)
• A television with an HDMI port (4K HDR-capable recommended)
• An iPhone or iPad running iOS 16 or later for automated setup, or a Bluetooth keyboard for manual setup
• A Wi-Fi network or Ethernet connection
• An Apple ID

Connecting the Hardware

1. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the back of the Apple TV 4K and the other end to an available HDMI port on your television.
2. If you prefer a wired internet connection, plug an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the Apple TV 4K. The Wi-Fi model does not have an Ethernet port, so skip this step and connect via Wi-Fi during software setup.
3. Plug the included power cord into the Apple TV 4K and connect it to a wall outlet.
4. Turn on your television and switch the input to the HDMI port where the Apple TV 4K is connected.

Software Setup

1. When the Apple TV 4K powers on, you will see a language selection screen. Use the Siri Remote to swipe and select your preferred language.
2. Select your country or region.
3. Choose your setup method. The fastest option is Set Up with iPhone, which transfers your Apple ID, Wi-Fi credentials, and preferences automatically. Hold your unlocked iPhone near the Apple TV and follow the on-screen prompts on both devices.
4. If setting up manually, select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password using the Siri Remote or a paired Bluetooth keyboard.
5. Sign in with your Apple ID. If you have two-factor authentication enabled, approve the sign-in on a trusted device when prompted.
6. Choose whether to enable Siri, Location Services, Screen Time, and One Home Screen (which syncs your app layout across multiple Apple TVs).
7. The Apple TV will download and install any available software updates. This may take several minutes depending on your internet speed.
8. When prompted, choose whether to set up the Apple TV as part of a room in the Home app. This is recommended if you plan to use it as a Home Hub.

Configuring as a Home Hub

The Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation) can serve as a Home Hub for your HomeKit and Matter smart home devices. Once signed in with your Apple ID, it is automatically available as a Home Hub. To confirm, open the Home app on your iPhone, go to Home Settings, and check that the Apple TV appears under Home Hubs & Bridges. As a Home Hub, it enables remote access to your accessories, automations, and guest control while you are away from home.

Pairing the Siri Remote

The Siri Remote included with the Apple TV 4K should pair automatically during initial setup. If it does not, hold the remote close to the Apple TV and press and hold the Back button and the Volume Up button simultaneously for five seconds. A pairing notification will appear on screen.

Calibrating Your Display

For the best picture quality, use the Color Balance feature. Go to Settings > Video and Audio > Color Balance and hold your iPhone face-up near the TV screen when prompted. The Apple TV will analyze your display and adjust its video output accordingly. This process takes about 30 seconds and can significantly improve color accuracy.

Tips for Getting Started

• Enable Thread support by keeping the Apple TV connected and powered on. It acts as a Thread border router for compatible smart home devices.
• Download streaming apps from the App Store using the Siri Remote or by searching with Siri voice commands.
• Use AirPlay to mirror your iPhone, iPad, or Mac screen, or to stream photos, videos, and presentations to your TV.
• Pair Bluetooth headphones for private listening by going to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Bluetooth.