Apple TV won’t open apps, when clicking on one opens a bubble to edit Home Screen or move the app

When I try clicking into an app on my Apple TV, a bubble pops up to edit Home Screen or move the app. I can’t open any apps. I have updated the software, restarted the unit, unplugged it, done a factory reset, and when it loads my profile it always syncs back to this issue. I have two Apple TVs and both have the same problem. Any tips on how to fix this?

Apple TV 4K, tvOS 17

Posted on Sep 25, 2023 06:21 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 1, 2024 08:17 PM

Found on Reddit: The issue is that Apple did an update and it caused the SEL (select) button on most universal remotes on the market to act as a long press. When you do a long press on an Apple TV remote, it brings up the "Edit Home Screen" box and this is what you are now seeing with various Harmony, URC, RTI and other remotes.



NOTE: We have seen it mainly on older Apple TVs and not on any of the new ones.


What to do:


If you are comfortable with programming, you either change the repeats or the sustain feature, depending on what brand you have (Harmony, URC, RTI all call it different things).


Not comfortable with programming or don't want to pay to have your smart home guy out...grab the remote that came with the Apple TV. The center button on it will let you choose your content.


Can't find the Apple remote? You can use your iPhone or iPad to control your Apple TV through the command center.


This will get you back-in-business.

13 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 1, 2024 08:17 PM in response to ctraylor15

Found on Reddit: The issue is that Apple did an update and it caused the SEL (select) button on most universal remotes on the market to act as a long press. When you do a long press on an Apple TV remote, it brings up the "Edit Home Screen" box and this is what you are now seeing with various Harmony, URC, RTI and other remotes.



NOTE: We have seen it mainly on older Apple TVs and not on any of the new ones.


What to do:


If you are comfortable with programming, you either change the repeats or the sustain feature, depending on what brand you have (Harmony, URC, RTI all call it different things).


Not comfortable with programming or don't want to pay to have your smart home guy out...grab the remote that came with the Apple TV. The center button on it will let you choose your content.


Can't find the Apple remote? You can use your iPhone or iPad to control your Apple TV through the command center.


This will get you back-in-business.

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Apple TV won’t open apps, when clicking on one opens a bubble to edit Home Screen or move the app

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