Yoodley is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There is a huge improvement in how customers can fix an issue with their Apple TV. In a new support document, Apple says it has introduced a new way for users to wirelessly restore their Apple TVs using an iPhone running iOS 17.

According to the Cupertino giant, users will be informed of this new function through a UI that will appear on the TV screen when the problem occurs. “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,” Apple notes in the document.

The new “Tap to Restore” troubleshooting option will cover Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K models and will require users to hold their iPhones next to the TV. A series of instructions will then appear on the iPhone to aid the users in the recovery process, albeit the handheld will still function normally for other purposes.

This is an additional troubleshooting option for Apple TV HD that also allows a wired restoration process via Mac. On the other hand, it should make things more convenient for Apple TV 4K units that don’t have a USB-C port for wired troubleshooting, which requires users to contact Apple Support to fix such a problem. Thankfully, this will now be a secondary option with the arrival of this new wireless troubleshooting function via iPhone.

To do this, follow the steps below:

  • Update your iPhone. You must have an iPhone with iOS 17 or later to restore your Apple TV.
  • Unlock your iPhone and hold it close to your Apple TV.
  • Follow the steps that appear on your iPhone.
  • You can use your iPhone as you normally would while your Apple TV recovers. Leave your Apple TV connected to power while recovery completes.
  • If these steps don’t work for you, contact Apple Support.