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

Beginner 15-30 minutes

What You'll Need

  • Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)
  • TV with HDMI port (HDMI 2.1 for 4K/120Hz)
  • HDMI cable (included or high-speed for full features)
  • WiFi network or Ethernet connection
  • Apple ID
  • iPhone or iPad for quick setup (optional)

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Connect to TV: Plug one end of HDMI cable into Apple TV and the other into your TV's HDMI port.
  2. Connect power: Attach the power cord to Apple TV and plug into wall outlet.
  3. Turn on TV: Switch to the correct HDMI input. The Apple TV setup screen appears.
  4. Pair remote: Press and hold the Back and Volume Up buttons until the pairing message appears.
  5. Choose setup method: Select "Set Up with iPhone" for automatic configuration, or "Set Up Manually."
  6. For iPhone setup: Hold your iPhone near Apple TV. Follow prompts to transfer WiFi and Apple ID settings.
  7. For manual setup: Use Siri Remote to select WiFi network and enter password. Sign in with Apple ID.
  8. Configure options: Choose one-time password settings, location services, analytics, and screen saver preferences.
  9. Enable Home Hub: In Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit, enable "Home Hub" to control smart home devices remotely.

Key Features

  • Matter controller: Acts as a Thread border router and Matter hub for smart home devices
  • 4K HDR streaming: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos support
  • A15 Bionic chip: Fast performance for games and apps
  • Siri Remote: Voice control and touch-enabled clickpad navigation
  • FaceTime on TV: Video calls using iPhone or iPad as camera (Continuity Camera)
  • SharePlay: Watch together with friends remotely

Troubleshooting

  • No picture: Try different HDMI port. Ensure TV is set to correct input. Check HDMI cable connection.
  • Remote not pairing: Keep remote within 8cm of Apple TV. Charge remote if battery is low.
  • WiFi won't connect: Ensure you're entering correct password. Move Apple TV closer to router.
  • Home Hub not available: Update to latest tvOS. Enable in Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit.
  • 4K not displaying: Verify TV supports 4K and HDMI cable is high-speed. Check Settings > Video and Audio.