New Apple TV 4K shows YouTube errors; update, restart and reinstall may help

Owners of the new Apple TV 4K have reported that the YouTube app stops working soon after setup. Some users receive an error stating the app cannot yet run on their unit. According to 9to5Mac, the problem appears widespread, with complaints on social media and Reddit. The Verge reports that some units showed only a black screen with a QR code, while others ran the app with a red bar at the bottom describing a testing status.

Warren's steps, shared on X, begin with making sure the device runs tvOS 27.2. They then cover restarting the device, either by unplugging it or through the Settings menu, and holding two buttons for five seconds. Next comes removing the YouTube app and installing it again from the App Store.

For one Verge writer, the update and reboot were not enough, and a reinstall was also needed. 9to5Mac also reports a server-side change on YouTube's end that may make manual steps unnecessary.

Neither report gives a date for a permanent fix, and it is not clear how many units are affected. Apple has not been quoted in either article. The reports describe early buyers of the device, so later stock may behave differently. The Verge also noted that its reviewer rated the device among the best streaming boxes but expensive next to other models.