Quick answer
Open YouTube. If it is not signed in, choose Sign in and pick the TV's Google account, or choose Sign in with your phone and enter the code at yt.be/activate.
Which TVs this covers
Any TV or box running Google TV or Android TV, such as the Nvidia Shield and most TVs from Sony, TCL, Philips, Hisense and Xiaomi. Brand guides add the maker's own menus: Sony, TCL, Hisense, Philips, Xiaomi, Chromecast.
Install or update YouTube
- Android TV: open the Google Play Store, search for YouTube and install or update it.
- Google TV and Chromecast with Google TV: go to the Apps tab, search for YouTube and choose Install.
Sign in with a code
- Open YouTube and go to Sign in in the side menu.
- Pick an account or use your phone.Accounts already on the TV appear first. For another account, choose Sign in with your phone.
- Enter the code at yt.be/activate or scan the QR code.
- Allow access and the TV switches to that account.
Opens Google's official page in a new tab. Type your code there, never on any other site.
Android TV problems and fixes
- Wrong account signed in: open the YouTube profile menu and switch, or add an account.
- App errors: Settings → Apps → YouTube → Clear cache, then Force stop and reopen. Menu names vary by brand.
- No code screen: update YouTube from the Play Store and restart the TV.
Questions people ask
Why is YouTube already signed in on my Google TV?
Google TV and Android TV are set up with a Google account, and YouTube can use that account. Add or switch accounts from the YouTube profile menu.
Can I sign in to an old Chromecast?
No. Older Chromecasts without a remote cannot be signed in directly. Cast from the YouTube app on a signed-in phone instead. Chromecast with Google TV signs in like any Google TV.
How do I update YouTube on Android TV?
Open the Google Play Store on the TV, go to your apps and update YouTube.