Quick answer
Open YouTube on Apple TV, choose Sign in and Sign in with your phone, then enter the code at yt.be/activate and choose Allow.
Install YouTube on Apple TV
- Open the App Store on the Apple TV.
- Search for YouTube and select Get.
Sign in on Apple TV
- Open YouTube and swipe left on the remote to open the side menu. Select Sign in.
- Choose Sign in with your phone.The code and QR code appear.
- Scan or type.Point your iPhone camera at the QR code, or go to yt.be/activate and type the code.
- Allow access for your Google account.
Opens Google's official page in a new tab. Type your code there, never on any other site.
Apple TV problems and fixes
- Restart: Settings → System → Restart.
- Update: Settings → System → Software Updates, and update YouTube in the App Store.
- Reinstall: on the home screen, press and hold YouTube, choose Delete, then download it again.
Questions people ask
Does YouTube work on older Apple TVs?
The YouTube app needs a current Apple TV (Apple TV HD or Apple TV 4K). The 3rd-generation Apple TV lost the app in 2021.
Can I sign in with the Apple TV keyboard on my iPhone?
If you choose Sign in with your remote, your iPhone may offer a keyboard notification for typing. The code method is usually quicker.