It’s rare for me to encounter bugs or software problems with the Apple TV 4K that stop me in my tracks. But when you do, restoring Apple’s streaming box has always been a pain. With the older Apple TV HD, you have to connect it to a Mac via the rear USB port. But that’s not even an option on the 4K model, leaving customers with little choice but to contact Apple for service. This inconvenience is finally changing with the release of iOS 17 and tvOS 17, which can now use your iPhone to restore an Apple TV and reset its software.
As noted by MacRumors, Apple has outlined this new troubleshooting step in a support document. “If your Apple TV HD or later with tvOS 17 or later is experiencing problems, an image of an iPhone next to an Apple TV may appear on your TV screen,” it reads.
After unlocking your phone and holding it near the Apple TV, you’ll see a prompt on the screen. Follow the instructions, and a confirmation message saying “Apple TV is restoring” will appear shortly after. You can then use your iPhone as normal while the set-top box resets.
tvOS 17 is one of the most substantial updates to Apple’s streaming box for some time. Among other things, it brings FaceTime to the TV screen, includes a redesigned control centre, a new ‘enhanced dialogue’ mode and the handy ability to locate a misplaced Siri remote with your iPhone. Both tvOS 17 and iOS 17 are available now.
