HT1600: Apple TV (1st generation): How to update Apple TV software

Learn about Apple TV (1st generation): How to update Apple TV software
Reg W.
Level 1 (0 points)

Q: Update was not successful after Restart

Cannot update the latest Apple TV 3 software release.  The update appears to download but then never gets to step 2 and shows the error message "The update was not successful."  I have tried this several times with the same result. The Apple TV operates normally, but I would lke to keep the software up to date. Help will be appreciated.

Apple TV (3rd generation), OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2)

Posted on Dec 16, 2012 7:11 AM

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Reg W.

Q: Update was not successful after Restart

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  • by Winston Churchill,

    Winston Churchill Winston Churchill Dec 16, 2012 7:13 AM in response to Reg W.
    Level 10 (104,526 points)
    Apple TV
    Dec 16, 2012 7:13 AM in response to Reg W.

    If your problem persists get yourself a micro USB cable (sold separately), you can restore your Apple TV from iTunes:

     

    1. Remove ALL cables from Apple TV. (if you don't you will not see Apple TV in the iTunes Source list)
    2. Connect the micro USB cable to the Apple TV and to your computer.
    3. Reconnect the power cable (only for Apple TV 3)
    4. Open iTunes.
    5. Select your Apple TV in the Source list, and then click Restore.

     

    If you get a message that the device cannot be found, download the following file (as appropriate for your device):

     

    Apple TV Software Restore 5.1.1 (2nd generation)

     

    Apple TV Software Restore 5.1.1 (3rd generation)

     

    Now hold down the option key when selecting restore and choose the downloaded file when prompted.