How to access recovery mode on Apple TV 4K 3rd gen?

Question

How to access recovery mode on Apple TV 4K 3rd gen?

Hi,

Model above shows Apple logo for 2 seconds then restarts. Apple support after troubleshooting said to fix was $121, 90 days out of warranty.

Was in recovery mode with the bluetooth icon and apple tv showing but can't get to it now, just restart loop.

Tried recovering but after 3 phones all said fetching recovery status the recovery would fail.

Any ideas on how to get back to recovery mode and why fetching recovery status failed? 30gb+ free on all 3 phones tried. Wifi good strength and tried different bands.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Apple TV 4k 3rd wifi boot loop

Apple TV 4K, tvOS 18

Posted on Sep 3, 2025 06:02 AM

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Answer 1

Urquhart1244

Level 10

145,776 points

Sep 4, 2025 08:38 AM in response to Robert Massung

If the boot-up sequence fails, then the system software might be hosed, and in need of reinstall. Unfortunately, for the 4K models, the Restore-through-iPhone option is the only method available to end-users, when the GUI menus are not accessible. When Restore-through-iPhone is not available or not working, the unit may need servicing by Apple staff.

Restore your Apple TV (externally) - Apple Support

↳ Get service.

Tried recovering but after 3 phones all said fetching recovery status the recovery would fail.

If you haven’t done so yet, please review the recover procedure for details that you might have skipped inadvertently.

If your TV shows an iPhone next to an Apple TV - Apple Support

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