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DanBeadle49 Author

Level 1

4 points

Factory reset Apple TV 4K without remote

My Apple TV was not used for. a while.

Without an ethernet connection, it comes up and hangs trying to the the time/date update.

I believe I changed the password to the wifi SSID while it was unused. So, it may be failing to get a wifi link.

I then hooked up to an ethernet connection.

It comes up in showing Top Movies. It is unresponsive to remote.

I followed instructions to re-pair the remote (black version) after charging it all night. I see the Apple TV light blink after pairing. On reboot, no change.

I also tried using the iPhone X remote. The three other devices in my home show up, but not this unit. iPhone and Apple TV are on the same network - TV connected via ethernet and iPhone via wifi to the same router.

Is there any way to return to factory mode and start the setup from scratch?

Posted on Mar 23, 2021 8:52 AM

Top-ranking reply

Urquhart1244

Community+ 2024

Level 10

143,316 points

Posted on Mar 23, 2021 11:14 AM

For a reset through the menu, you will need a functional remote. Reset or restore your Apple TV to its factory settings - Apple Support

With the 4K model, for a software restore through a computer, you will need outsource this action to an Apple technician. Contact Apple to pursue that route. Restore your Apple TV - Apple Support

For pairing the remote to the box, follow the steps as indicated on: If your Apple TV remote isn’t working - Apple Support. That will work if there is not hardware defect.

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Factory reset Apple TV 4K without remote

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