If your Apple TV 4K isn't functioning as a HomeKit hub, has AirPlay problems, or won't connect to your TV or network, this guide covers the most common issues and solutions.
Not Working as HomeKit Hub
When Apple TV won't control HomeKit devices remotely:
- Verify you're signed into the same iCloud account on Apple TV and iPhone
- Go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit > check HomeKit hub status
- Ensure "Connect to HomeKit" is enabled
- Check that Apple TV is set as "Connected" not "Standby"
- Restart the Apple TV
- Sign out of iCloud and sign back in on Apple TV
Shows "Standby" or "Not Connected" for HomeKit
If the hub status shows issues:
- Ensure Apple TV is connected to the internet via WiFi or Ethernet
- Check your router isn't blocking Apple services
- Disable and re-enable HomeKit in Settings
- Reset the Apple TV and set up again
- Check for tvOS updates
- Verify two-factor authentication is enabled on your Apple ID
AirPlay Not Working
When you can't stream to Apple TV:
- Ensure Apple TV and streaming device are on the same network
- Check AirPlay is enabled: Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit > AirPlay
- Restart both the Apple TV and your iPhone/iPad/Mac
- Verify your network allows device-to-device communication
- Temporarily disable firewall on your router
- Check if AirPlay is restricted by access settings
No Video or Black Screen
If Apple TV shows no picture:
- Check HDMI cable is securely connected
- Try a different HDMI port on your TV
- Try a different HDMI cable
- Hold Menu + Volume Down on remote for 6 seconds to cycle resolutions
- Ensure TV is set to correct input
- Check if HDCP is causing issues with certain content
Remote Not Working
Siri Remote troubleshooting:
- Charge the remote - connect via Lightning/USB-C for 30 minutes
- Point remote directly at Apple TV when troubleshooting
- Restart Apple TV by unplugging for 6 seconds
- Re-pair remote: Hold Menu + Volume Up for 5 seconds
- If remote is unresponsive, use iPhone as remote via Control Center
WiFi Connection Problems
If Apple TV keeps disconnecting:
- Move Apple TV closer to your router
- Use Ethernet connection for better stability
- Restart your router
- Forget and rejoin the WiFi network on Apple TV
- Check for interference from other devices
- Assign a static IP to Apple TV in router settings
Apps Crashing or Freezing
For app-related issues:
- Force quit the app: Double-click TV button, swipe up on the app
- Delete and reinstall the problematic app
- Check for tvOS updates
- Reset Apple TV settings (keeps apps)
- As last resort, restore Apple TV to factory settings
Factory Reset Apple TV
For persistent issues:
- Go to Settings > System > Reset
- Choose "Reset" to keep settings or "Reset and Update" for fresh start
- You can also restore via computer using Finder/iTunes
- After reset, sign into iCloud to restore HomeKit hub functionality
- Re-configure AirPlay and HomeKit settings