Only a small part of users know how to connect Apple TV to a TV and set up the equipment for the first time. In fact, synchronizing these devices is a simple and straightforward process that anyone can handle.
The technology released by Apple has an intuitively simple and clear interface. Therefore, users do not have problems connecting and configuring equipment from this manufacturer.
What functions does Apple TV perform?
The smart set-top box from the famous American brand differs from its analogues in its versatility. Let's look at what features it provides:
- creating a home multimedia center by synchronizing various gadgets: TV, smartphone, tablet, speaker system, player and other devices;
- using the iTunes application to play music content;
- gaining access to high-quality video content (series, films, clips), which is stored on appropriate resources;
- watching sports broadcasts in real time;
- displaying images from mobile gadgets on a large TV screen, regardless of the operating system. Therefore, you can synchronize your Samsung smartphone and Apple TV;
- access to the most popular video games, podcasts.
Apple consoles are conventionally divided into 4 generations. Devices of the debut line were produced with the Mac OS X Tige operating system. The second version of the technology operates on iOS.
Owners of second and third generation smart boxes from Apple will be able to play media content exclusively in streaming mode. This is explained by the lack of a built-in hard drive with sufficient capacity that would allow storing files directly on the hard drive.
The A5 central processor and 8 GB of internal memory are used as intermediate storage for streaming information. However, there are advantages. The set-top box allows you to play various content from iTunes in maximum resolution (Full HD) and with multi-channel audio without any delays.
4th generation devices have 32 and 64 gigabytes of internal memory. Accordingly, the line consists of only 2 models. The latest version of Apple TV provides access to applications from the App Store. The device also supports voice control technology – Siri.
After connecting the set-top box, you can not only watch TV. The functionality of the TV will be significantly expanded.
To gain access to the multimedia library of a smartphone, laptop, computer or tablet, you need to install special software. Then the devices are synchronized. Control will be carried out using the remote control, which is included in the basic package of the console. An alternative method is any gadget running iOS 7 and higher.
What is Apple TV 4K for?
Apple TV 4K adds Smart TV features to your regular TV. However, you can purchase a set-top box even if you already have a built-in smart TV, but for some reason you are not satisfied with it.
Typically, Smart TV is purchased to gain access to services such as Amediateka, ivi, MEGOGO, Netflix. Users pay a monthly subscription and watch TV series, movies or cartoons in high quality. You can also purchase movies from the iTunes Store, but the prices there are not the lowest. In addition to movies, Apple TV 4K provides access to a huge number of applications: from fitness, sports to dynamic games. The set-top box has a powerful A10X Fusion processor, which ensures smooth operation of any supported content.
With Apple TV 4K, you can pull out any media content from your iCloud library: photos, videos, or music. This makes it convenient to display vacation photos or give presentations.
What you need to connect
The set-top box connects to the TV via an HDMI cable or Wi-Fi. There are no alternative methods. A wired connection is a priority option, as it opens up the opportunity to fully use the functionality of the device. If synchronization is carried out over a wireless Wi-Fi network, you will not be able to use iTunes. List of required connections:
- TV with a working HDMI connector;
- HDMI cable;
- Internet access;
- Apple TV set-top box.
The cable will have to be purchased separately. The basic Apple TV package includes only a power cord, a remote control, the device itself and a USB cable.
How to connect the set-top box to the TV
connect Apple TV to a TV that has a connector for an HDMI cable or Wi - Fi . In the absence of such capabilities, it will not be possible to connect the set-top box to the TV. To have access to all the features of the gadget, it is best to use a wired connection. If connected via Wi-Fi, the user will not have the iTunes function.
To connect you will need:
- set with Apple TV device;
- TV with HDMI connector;
- HDMI cable (sold separately);
- personal Internet connection (router).
Using an HDMI cable, the Apple TV set-top box is connected to the TV. If the connection to the router will be made via an Ethernet cable, then it is also inserted into the devices. This completes the connection stage. Now all that remains is to configure the equipment.
The process of connecting Apple TV to a TV
Instructions for connecting the set-top box:
- Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the device connector, and the other plug to the corresponding socket on the TV.
2. Insert the power cable into the power connector, and then plug the wire into the outlet.
3. Take the TV remote control and select “HDMI” as the main signal source.
Why doesn't the TV see the set-top box? It is possible that one of the cables is not working. The second reason is that the equipment was configured incorrectly. You should also not rule out the fact that you mixed up the connectors and the devices were connected incorrectly. Check everything again.
Apple TV Specifications
In conclusion, we provide a table comparing the main characteristics of the 4th generation Apple TV set-top box, which is still available for sale, and Apple TV 4K.
| Model | Apple TV (4th generation) | Apple TV 4K (5th generation) |
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| Connection |
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See also:
- HEVC: what is it?
- iMessage: what is it on iPhone
- FaceTime: what is it on iPhone
Setting up a set-top box via iPhone
Apple smartphones have a special function designed to configure a proprietary set-top box. This option is called iBeacon. To set up Apple TV using your iPhone mobile phone, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Insert all the necessary cables, and then turn on the equipment to the network.
- Bring your smartphone to the console, and then move away with your mobile device a short distance. 20 centimeters will be enough.
- A notification will appear on the smartphone screen asking you to start setting up. You need to click "Yes".
- Log in to your Apple ID by entering the appropriate username and password.
- As a result, two notifications will appear on the iPhone screen: whether to save your Apple ID account on this device, and you will also be asked for permission to send reports on the operation of the equipment.
- Answer the queries that appear on your mobile phone screen.
- The setup will begin, wait until it finishes.
Overall, synchronization will only take a few minutes. Then you can start working. To set up Apple TV using an iPad or iPhone, you need iOS 9.1. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be turned on on your smartphone or tablet.
Do you need Apple TV 4K
The downside of the console is its limitations. The situation is similar to iOS: you have specific functionality that constrains you. On Apple TV 4K, you get access to a huge library of movies and apps, plus an iCloud library. This is where its functionality practically ends. At the same time, the advantage of Android TV is at least the browser. With a browser, you get access to all content: paid, free, licensed or pirated.
Even if you don’t have a 4K TV, but a Full HD one, you can buy a set-top box, it will work and be fun. Another question is the price: pay 15,000 and not use the main 4K function... Here everyone decides for themselves. In principle, if you are planning to buy a 4K TV in the near future, then it is better to immediately buy Apple TV 4K.
Conclusion: Apple TV is for those who are willing to pay for content. If you are ready to buy movies and do not experience financial difficulties with it, take Apple TV. If you're not ready, grab Android TV.
Setup instructions
Setting up Apple TV is as follows:
- Turn on the TV and set-top box. If the wired connection was made correctly, a menu for setting up a new device will appear on the TV screen.
- Connect the remote control by pressing the touch panel.
- Using the remote control, the initial setup is carried out: a language and region are selected, the voice control function is activated (available only in models of the fourth generation and higher), and a password is entered.
- When you first connect to the Internet, activate your accounts in Apple branded services, for example, iTunes.
A few words about connecting the remote control. Press the touchpad on the remote control to begin syncing with the set-top box. If you encounter any difficulties, press the menu button and the volume up key at the same time. They need to be held for about 5 seconds. It is possible that a notification “There is too much distance between devices” will appear on the TV screen. In this case, you need to put the remote control on the console.
The step-by-step instructions are simple and clear. Each user will be able to independently turn on Apple TV. This completes the set-top box setup. Now you will be able to download and play multimedia content.
If you are a fan of Apple products and have several devices from this manufacturer, then be sure to connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to your TV. Synchronization takes minimal time. Everything is very convenient and accessible.
Instructions
Before you start connecting Apple TV to the screen, you need to buy an HDMI cable, since it is not included with the device.
Scheme:
- Connect the cable to the set-top box and TV (all equipment must be disconnected from the power supply).
- After connecting the HDMI cable, connect the devices to the network. Switch the TV screen to HDMI mode.
- The Apple logo will appear on the screen, you need to select the desired language, this action is performed using the remote control, use the volume and center keys.
- The device will begin searching for available Internet networks to connect to. If the connection is wireless, then you need to select your connection from the list that appears and enter the password.
- After this action is completed, you can activate accounts on various applications, such as iTunes.
- The connection is complete.
