There is still no solution to Apple TVs that can't be activated? My generation 2 won't. ID and password work on all other Apple devices.
iMac, OS X Mountain Lion
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/8060787
First response worked for me. Put in Apple ID, then type password but don’t submit, request verification code from phone settings, add verification code to end of password, then submit.
Thank you. I’ve reset and restored the Apple TV 2 several times. The Settings > General > “About” screen always shows “Activation … Failed.” Repeated entry of my Apple ID, password, and verification code fails. Oddly (to me at least) it does work to show the Apple TV home screen. And it plays trailers and subscription services like PBS. This is a long standing problem that needs some attention from Apple. Apple has, to its credit, refunded material I purchased that can’t be displayed.
same problem on ATV 3
Apple TV activation failed
