iTunes 7.6.1: Apple TV not recognized, various fixes

Apple TV is gone, baby, gone after the 7.6.1 update.

CNET staff

Sept. 2, 2009 2:26 a.m. PT

2 min read

[Wednesday, March 5th]

Several users have reported that they can no longer see their Apple TVs (the devices are not recognized) after updating to iTunes 7.6.1. In other words, the Apple TV does not show up on the devices list in iTunes after the software update.

One reader, phdlynn, writes:

"My link disappeared and after going through all of the options on the Apple Support web site for this issue, it did not result in reestablishing this connection. In my case, the Apple TV was connected to my network and could download movies and trailers from the Apple iTunes store. I also had an iTunes store connection from within iTunes but the Apple TV did not appear under devices. It does appear under iTunes Preferences when you click on the the Apple TV icon. This appears to be an iTunes 7.6.1 update related issue. On two occasions I waited over one hour to talk with an Apple specialist about this issue but was eventually disconnected while waiting so I have no additional insights from AppleCare about this issue."

Another reader, Travis Lemanski, adds:

"I cant seem to find apple tv in my devices list in itunes after i did the latest update. I have restarted everything multiple times."

The single most effective fix for this issue is a simple one: unplug your Apple TV from the power outlet then plug it back in.

Other potential fixes include:

Make sure your settings are correct Open iTunes and navigate to Preferences under the iTunes menu. Click on the Apple TV tab, and make sure the option "Look for Apple TVs" is selected.
Turn off the Firewall Open System Preferences, then click on the Security pane. Check the box next to "Allow all incoming connections."
Reconnect to network On the Apple TV, navigate to Settings then Network and select "Reconnect to network."
Don't use SOCKS Some users have reported problems when using SOCKS proxies. Try using an alternative connection method.
Reinstall iTunes Try reinstalling iTunes 7.6.1.
Change wireless channels Change the channel used by your wireless router -- interference may be at play. See our wireless tutorial for more information.
Recreate library Recreating your iTunes library may work to resolve this issue.
Restart Mac or Apple TV In some cases restarting the host Mac or the Apple TV (or both) can temporarily resolve this issue.