If your Apple TV isn’t working, won’t turn on or displays a black screen
Find out what to do if your Apple TV device won’t turn on or displays a black screen.
Find out how to get the Apple TV app or Apple TV+ app and what to do if you’re having issues watching content in the Apple TV app.
Check your HDMI setup
Check if your issue has been resolved after each step.
Unplug both ends of your HDMI cable, then firmly plug them back in.
Try using a different HDMI cable to check if the cable is causing the issue. For HDMI 2.1, use an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. For HDMI 2.0, use a Premium High Speed HDMI cable.
In the TV menu, make sure you select the HDMI input that matches the HDMI port connected to the Apple TV.
Try a different HDMI port on your TV, starting with HDMI 1 or Input 1. Check your TV manual for assistance.
Check video resolution
Use your Apple TV remote to change video resolutions.
For Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD, hold Menu and Volume Down for 5 seconds. Apple TV will switch to a new resolution every 20 seconds. Select OK to choose a resolution or Cancel to quit.
For Apple TV (2nd or 3rd generation), hold Menu and Up for 5 seconds. Apple TV will switch to a new resolution every 20 seconds. Select OK to choose a resolution or Cancel to quit.
Check your HDMI switch or AV receiver setup
If you’re using an HDMI switch or AV receiver, connect your Apple TV directly to your TV instead of your switch or receiver to determine if they are causing the issue.
If the issue is resolved by connecting your Apple TV directly to your TV, consult your HDMI switch or AV receiver manufacturer for help.
Check dynamic range and frame rate matching settings
If you turn on Match Dynamic Range or Match Frame Rate, Apple TV will attempt to automatically determine which dynamic ranges or frame rates your TV supports. You may experience a blank or flickering screen as your TV switches between formats when playback starts or stops.
On your Apple TV, go to Settings > Video and Audio > Match Content and check whether Match Dynamic Range or Match Frame Rate are turned on.
Check your power supply and power cable
Check if your issue has been resolved after each step.
Unplug the power cable from Apple TV, wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
Plug the power cable into a different socket or power strip.
If possible, use a different Apple TV power cable.
Get more help
Find out what to do if your TV shows an iPhone next to an Apple TV.
Find out what to do if a warning symbol appears on Apple TV.
If your Apple TV still won’t turn on, you may need a service. Get service.
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