Samsung Smart TVs update automatically by default, but you can also check for and install updates manually

Most Samsung Smart TVs are set to download and install software updates overnight when the TV is in standby mode. You do not need to do anything — the TV handles it on its own. However, if you want to check right now whether an update is available, or if your TV has automatic updates turned off, you can go into the settings menu and look for updates yourself. The process takes about five to ten minutes and requires only your remote control.

Updates fix bugs, improve performance, and sometimes add new features. If your TV is running slowly, apps are crashing, or you notice features that seem broken, an update may solve the problem. You should also update if you are having trouble connecting to the internet or if streaming apps are not working the way they used to.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung Smart TVs check for updates automatically when in standby mode, usually between midnight and 6 a.m.
  • You can manually check for updates by going to Settings, then Support, then Software Update on your TV.
  • Updates typically take 10 to 30 minutes to download and install, and your TV will restart during the process.
  • If an update fails or your TV gets stuck, unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually fixes the problem.
  • You need a stable internet connection — either Wi-Fi or an ethernet cable plugged into the back of the TV.

Check for updates using your remote

Pick up your Samsung remote and press the Home button. This opens the main menu on your TV screen. Look for an icon that says Settings — it usually looks like a gear or wrench. Select it and wait for the settings menu to load.

Once you are in Settings, scroll down until you see Support. Select Support and then look for Software Update. Press Enter or Select on your remote. The TV will now check whether a newer version is available. This check takes about 30 seconds to one minute. If an update is found, you will see a button that says Update Now or Install. Select it and the download will begin.

Do not turn off your TV or unplug it while the update is running. The TV will restart on its own one or more times during the process. This is normal. The entire update usually takes between 10 and 30 minutes depending on the file size and your internet speed. Leave the TV alone until you see the home screen again.

Turn on automatic updates if they are off

If you want Samsung to handle updates without you checking manually, you can turn on automatic updates. Go to Settings, then Support, then Software Update again. Look for an option that says Auto Update or Automatic Update. Make sure the toggle or checkbox next to it is turned on.

When automatic updates are on, your TV will download and install new software during off-peak hours — usually between midnight and 6 a.m. — when you are not using it. Your TV must be plugged in and in standby mode (not fully powered off) for this to work. If you turn off your TV completely using the power button on the back, automatic updates will not run that night.

What to do if the update fails or gets stuck

If the update stops partway through, or if your TV freezes on an update screen, unplug the TV from the wall outlet. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This is called a power cycle and it resets the TV's memory without erasing your settings or apps. The TV will usually resume the update or start over from the beginning.

If the TV gets stuck again at the same point, try connecting it to the internet using an ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi. Plug one end of the cable into the back of your TV (look for a port labeled Ethernet or Network) and the other end into your router. A wired connection is more stable than Wi-Fi and often solves update problems. Then go back to Settings, Support, Software Update and try again.

If the update still fails after a power cycle and a wired connection, contact Samsung support. You will need your TV model number, which you can find on the back of the TV or in Settings under About This TV.

Understand what happens during an update

When you start an update, the TV first downloads the new software file from Samsung's servers. This download uses your internet connection, so the speed depends on how fast your Wi-Fi or ethernet is. During the download, you will see a progress bar on the screen. Do not interrupt this step.

Once the download finishes, the TV will install the update. During installation, the TV will restart — sometimes multiple times. Each restart is normal and expected. You may see a black screen, a Samsung logo, or a loading animation. This can take several minutes. The TV will turn itself back on when the installation is complete.

After the update finishes, your TV will boot up to the home screen as usual. Your apps, settings, and saved passwords will still be there. The update does not erase anything on your TV.

Check your current software version

If you want to know what version of software your TV is currently running, go to Settings, then Support, then About This TV. You will see the model number and the current software version displayed on the screen. Write down the version number if you need to contact Samsung support.

You can also check the Samsung website to see what the latest version should be for your model. Search for your TV model number on Samsung's support site, and it will show you the most recent software version available. If your TV's version number is older, an update is waiting for you.

Troubleshoot internet connection problems during updates

If your TV cannot find an update, or if the download keeps stopping, the problem is usually your internet connection. First, check that your TV is actually connected to Wi-Fi. Go to Settings, then General, then Network, and look for the name of your Wi-Fi network listed there. If it is not listed, your TV has disconnected.

If your TV is disconnected, select your Wi-Fi network name from the list, enter your password, and wait for it to reconnect. This usually takes 30 seconds to one minute. Then go back to Settings, Support, Software Update and try the update again.

If your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting, move your router closer to the TV, or use an ethernet cable instead. Ethernet is more reliable for large downloads like software updates. If you do not have an ethernet cable, you can buy one at any electronics store for under twenty dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be home when my TV updates?

No. If automatic updates are turned on, your TV will update on its own overnight while you sleep. You do not need to do anything. Just make sure the TV is plugged in and in standby mode (not fully powered off) when you go to bed.

Will an update erase my apps or passwords?

No. Updates do not erase anything on your TV. Your apps, login information, and settings will be exactly the same after the update finishes. The update only changes the underlying software that runs the TV.

How long does a Samsung TV update usually take?

Most updates take between 10 and 30 minutes from start to finish. The time depends on the size of the update file and how fast your internet connection is. During this time, your TV will restart one or more times, which is normal.

Can I use my TV while it is updating?

No. Do not try to watch TV or use apps while an update is running. The TV needs all its resources to download and install the new software. If you interrupt the update, it may fail and you will have to start over.

What should I do if my TV gets stuck on the Samsung logo during an update?

Unplug the TV for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This power cycle usually allows the update to resume or restart. If it gets stuck again at the same point, try using an ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi and attempt the update again.