The tvOS, which powers Apple TV was built on Apple iOS. This has been the case since tvOS 9 launched in 2015. This is underlined by the TV’s reliance on Apple silicon. The latest model, the third-generation Apple TV 4K, runs on A15 Bionic. It’s advisable to update apps on Apple TV just as you would with your iPhone with each release. However, updating apps on Apple TV is different from iPhone or iPad. Here’s how it works.
Why Update Apps On Apple TV?
Some people update Apple TV apps for convenience’s sake. But it’s not the only reason for doing so. Others update their TVs’ apps to unlock the latest features. Still, others run updates to fix glitchy apps. Regardless, it’s worth knowing how to update your apps.
Unlock The Latest Features
Updating an app lets you enjoy the latest and best features. No app is perfect from the outset. Updates allow developers to debut new and improved app versions. This goes so far beyond basic bug fixes. From adding new settings and features to removing unpopular functions or features, updates let you access the latest app version. That’s why it’s so essential to know how to perform updates.
Fix Performance Bugs
Nothing is worse than a performance bug. Videos won’t stream, features won’t work, games won’t play -it’s incredibly frustrating. Some apps are just plain buggy. Others take time and effort to fix their problems so they can enjoy the best possible version of the app. This is where updates come in. They fix major performance bugs, serious app issues, and dangerous security flaws that lessen our enjoyment of Apple TV apps.
App Won’t Work Without Updating
Lastly, some apps plain won’t work unless you update them. When an app undergoes a major overhaul or faces tremendous performance bugs, the developer might find blocking access to outdated versions easier to encourage users to update to the new version. While not the most common reason to update the apps on your Apple TV, it is another reason. So, instead of worrying about what’s wrong with your Apple TV, you’ll know you need to update.
- 4K Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos sound and HDR10+ support
- Equipped with the powerful A15 Bionic chip
- Third-generation Siri Remote with improved clickpad
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet options available
How To Update Apps On Apple TV
App updates are only possible on the Apple TV HD and beyond. Any Apple TV released before this fourth-generation device in 2015 has pre-installed apps. Only the Apple TV HD and the three Apple TV 4K releases can update apps. We’re walking you through the first-generation Apple TV 4K, but the steps should work as long as you have a compatible device.
Step One: Open Settings App
Turn on your Apple TV device if you haven’t done so, then navigate to the home screen and find the Settings app. It’s gray with an assortment of gears. Once you find the Settings, click it.
Step Two: Select Apps
Next, use the Siri Remote to maneuver down to the option that reads “Apps.” You should see it seven spaces down from the top. It’s wedged between the “Accessibility” and “Network” options. Click it to open up your Apple TV app settings.
Step Three: Turn On Automatic Updates
Below the App settings menu, select the top option that reads “Automatically Update Apps.” Change the word “Off” to the word “On” by hitting the Select button. This will activate automatic app updates. Now, your Apple TV will automatically update your apps going forward.
How To Manually Update Apps
If there’s a reason you don’t want to turn on automatic updates, you can still manually update Apple TV apps. Simply navigate to the Apple TV App Store, then search for the app you want to update. Once you’ve found it, select the app to open its designated page. From there, you can choose “Update” in the same place you once hit “Get.” You’ll have to repeat this procedure whenever there’s a new update unless you turn automatic updates back on.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©History-Computer.com/Nate Williams.