How to Add Apps to Your Samsung TV

The fastest way to add an app to your Samsung TV

Open the Samsung TV app store directly from your remote. Press the Home button on your Samsung remote, then navigate to Apps using the arrow keys. Search for the app you want — Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, or any other — and select Install. The app downloads and installs automatically, then appears on your home screen ready to use.

If you cannot find an app in the Samsung store, your TV model may not support it. Older Samsung TVs (before 2016) use a different system called Tizen that has fewer apps available. Newer models use the same Tizen system but with a larger library. Check your TV's manual or Samsung's website to confirm which apps your specific model supports.

Key Takeaways

Press Home on your remote, go to Apps, search for the app name, and select Install — the whole process takes under two minutes.
Your Samsung TV connects to the internet through WiFi or ethernet, and apps install only if you are connected.
Older Samsung TVs have fewer available apps than newer ones, and some apps may not work on very old models.
If an app crashes or stops working, uninstall it and reinstall it from the Samsung app store to fix most problems.

Connecting your TV to the internet first

Your Samsung TV must be connected to WiFi or ethernet before you can download any apps. Press Home, go to Settings, then General, then Network. Choose WiFi if you want to use wireless, or Ethernet if you have a cable plugged into the back of your TV. If you choose WiFi, select your network name from the list and enter your password.

Test the connection by going back to Settings and looking for a Network Status option. It should show "Connected" with an IP address. If it says "Not Connected," check that your password was entered correctly and that your router is turned on. Move your TV closer to the router if the signal is weak, or use an ethernet cable for a more stable connection.

Finding apps in the Samsung TV app store

Not every app exists for Samsung TVs. Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu are all available on most models made after 2016. Smaller services like Peacock, Paramount+, and Apple TV+ are usually available too. Niche apps — fitness apps, music services, or regional streaming services — may or may not exist for your TV.

To search, press Home, select Apps, then look for a Search icon (usually a magnifying glass). Type the app name using your remote's keyboard. If the app appears in the results, select it and choose Install. If nothing appears, the app is not available for your TV model. In that case, you can use a streaming device like a Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire Stick instead, which plug into your TV's HDMI port and have larger app libraries.

What to do if an app won't install

If you see an error message or the install button does not respond, check three things: your internet connection, your TV's storage space, and whether the app is actually available in your region. Go to Settings, General, Storage to see how much space is left. If you have less than 1 GB free, uninstall apps you do not use to make room.

Some apps are not available in all countries. If you are trying to install an app that is only sold in the United States but you live elsewhere, it will not appear in your store. Check the app's official website or Samsung's support page to confirm whether it is available where you are. If the app is available but still will not install, restart your TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds, plugging it back in, and trying again.

Managing apps after installation

Once an app is installed, it appears on your home screen. You can rearrange apps by pressing and holding on one with your remote, then moving it to a new position. To remove an app you no longer use, press and hold it and select Delete or Uninstall. This frees up storage space and keeps your home screen clean.

If an app crashes, freezes, or behaves strangely, uninstall it completely and reinstall it fresh from the app store. This usually fixes problems caused by corrupted files or outdated versions. You can also go to Settings, Apps, find the app in the list, and select Clear Cache — this removes temporary files without deleting the app itself.

Updating apps on your Samsung TV

Samsung TVs can update apps automatically or manually depending on your settings. Go to Settings, General, Apps, then look for Auto Update or Update Apps. If you turn on auto-update, apps update in the background whenever new versions are released. If you leave it off, you can update manually by going to the app store, finding each app, and selecting Update.

Keeping apps updated fixes bugs, adds new features, and improves security. Most people should turn on auto-update so they do not have to think about it. If your TV is older or has very little storage space, manual updates give you more control over when apps download and install.

Using a streaming device if your TV does not have the app you want

If the app you want is not available for your Samsung TV, a streaming device is the simplest solution. Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast all plug into your TV's HDMI port and have their own app stores with much larger selections. You control them with their own remotes, and they work on any TV — not just Samsung.

Streaming devices cost between $30 and $150 depending on the model and features. They are worth it if you want apps that Samsung does not support, or if you have an older TV with a very limited app library. You can use both your TV's built-in apps and a streaming device at the same time — just switch between them using your TV's input button.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install apps from outside the Samsung app store?

No. Samsung TVs only install apps from the official Samsung app store. You cannot sideload apps from a computer or download them from other sources. This is a security feature to prevent malware, but it also means you are limited to what Samsung offers.

Why does my Samsung TV say an app is not compatible?

Your TV model is too old or does not have enough memory for that app. Samsung TVs made before 2016 use an older system with fewer compatible apps. Check your TV's model number in Settings to see what year it was made, then look up that model on Samsung's website to see which apps it supports.

Do I need to pay for apps on my Samsung TV?

Most apps are free to download and install. Some apps are free but require a paid subscription to use — Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu all work this way. A few apps cost money upfront, but these are rare on Samsung TVs. The app store always shows the price before you install.

What happens if I uninstall an app and then reinstall it?

You start fresh with a clean version of the app. Any saved data, login information, or settings inside the app are deleted. You will need to log in again and set up your preferences. This is useful for fixing apps that are broken or behaving strangely.

Can I use the same Samsung account on multiple TVs?

Yes. If you have more than one Samsung TV, you can sign in with the same Samsung account on both. Apps you install on one TV do not automatically appear on the other — you have to install them separately on each TV. But your account settings and preferences sync across devices.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.