iCloud login on third generation Apple TV

Hello there, eightpointacres!

Thanks for reaching out to the Apple Support Communities! That's a great question you have about signing in on your Apple TV 3rd generation when you have two-factor authentication set up. Check out this article to use Two-factor authentication for Apple ID:

"What if I use two-factor authentication on a device running older software?

If you use two-factor authentication with devices running older OS versions—like an Apple TV (2nd or 3rd generation)—you might be asked to add your six-digit verification code to the end of your password when signing in. Get your verification code from a trusted device running iOS 9 and later or OS X El Capitan and later, or have it sent to your trusted phone number. Then type your password followed by the six-digit verification code directly into the password field."

Thanks again for the question and take care!

If you have an Apple TV (2nd or 3rd generation) and two-factor authentication for your Apple ID, then you may be asked to type your password followed by the six-digit verification code directly into the password field. Additionally, there is a time limit, after which the code becomes invalid.

Try this: First enter the characters of your password (do not submit yet), then manually request a new verification code, then append that code to the password (no spaces or other separating characters), and then submit. That should help you get passed the time limit.

"What if I use two-factor authentication on a device running older software?

If you use two-factor authentication with devices running older OS versions—like an Apple TV (2nd or 3rd generation)—you might be asked to add your six-digit verification code to the end of your password when signing in. Get your verification code from a trusted device running iOS 9 and later or OS X El Capitan and later, or have it sent to your trusted phone number. Then type your password followed by the six-digit verification code directly into the password field."

I have tried this and have not been successful. I have even reset my password and I am not able to get this to work. I know I have an older Apple TV device which hasn't been use in years. I was able to update it and reset, but I am still not able to get it to connect. I was thinking/planning on purchasing a current Apple TV device, but wanted to check out all of the features/options Apple TV has to offer before making a purchase.