Apple TV Error Code 13: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
13
Brand
Apple TV
Product Type
smart_tv
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Apple TV Error Code 13 means your Apple TV is not functioning as an active HomeKit hub, which prevents your smart home devices from being controlled remotely or through automations. This typically happens when your Apple TV is signed out of iCloud, has lost its network connection, or has a software glitch disrupting hub mode. Restoring hub functionality is usually straightforward and requires no special tools — just your Apple TV remote and a few minutes of your time.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 13

  1. Check Your Apple TV Power and Connection

  2. Verify Your Wi-Fi or Ethernet Connection

  3. Confirm You Are Signed In to iCloud with the Correct Apple ID

  4. Enable HomeKit Hub Mode in Settings

  5. Restart Your Apple TV

  6. Update Apple TV Software

    Do not unplug your Apple TV during a software update. Interrupting the update can corrupt system software and require a full restore.

  7. Sign Out of iCloud and Sign Back In

  8. Reset Apple TV Network Settings

  9. Perform a Full Factory Reset as a Last Resort

    A factory reset erases all apps, accounts, and settings on your Apple TV. Ensure you know your Apple ID credentials before proceeding, as you will need them to set the device up again.
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When to Call a Professional

If your Apple TV shows hardware damage, will not power on, or continues to display Error Code 13 after a full factory reset, contact Apple Support at support.apple.com or visit an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. A hardware fault with the Apple TV's internal Wi-Fi or Bluetooth module may require professional diagnosis or device replacement. Also contact Apple Support if your iCloud account shows repeated authentication failures that you cannot resolve on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Apple TV Error Code 13 mean?
Error Code 13 on Apple TV means the device's HomeKit hub mode is not currently active. This prevents your smart home accessories from being controlled remotely or running automations when you are away from home. Fixing it usually involves ensuring the Apple TV is signed in to iCloud, connected to the internet, and properly configured in the Home app.
Why does my Apple TV keep losing its HomeKit hub status?
Apple TV can lose HomeKit hub status if it loses its internet connection, gets signed out of iCloud, or experiences a software glitch after an update. An unstable Wi-Fi connection is one of the most common culprits. Using an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi can greatly improve hub stability.
Can I use a HomePod or iPad as a HomeKit hub instead of Apple TV?
Yes. Apple allows HomePod, HomePod mini, and a dedicated iPad to serve as HomeKit hubs. If your Apple TV keeps having hub issues, you can set up a HomePod or leave an iPad plugged in at home as an alternative hub. Go to the Home app, then Home Settings, to see which hubs are available and connected.
Will fixing Error Code 13 delete my HomeKit automations or smart home setup?
No. Simply restarting your Apple TV, updating software, or re-signing into iCloud will not delete your HomeKit automations or home setup. The only step that could affect your configuration is a full factory reset of the Apple TV itself, which removes accounts and settings from that device but does not delete your Home app data stored in iCloud.
How do I check if my Apple TV is set as a HomeKit hub?
Open the Home app on your iPhone or iPad, tap the house icon in the top left corner, then go to Home Settings. Scroll down to 'Home Hubs and Bridges.' Your Apple TV should appear there with a status of 'Connected.' If it shows 'Not Connected' or does not appear at all, follow the troubleshooting steps to restore hub mode.

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