Why does Apple TV show screensaver when playing video?

Question

On occasion, our 3rd Gen ATV will display the screensaver while playing video. Once it starts doing this, the only way to get it to stop is by restarting. I love my ATV, but this is quite a distraction.

So far, I've noticed that this occurs with both Hulu and Netflix. The reports I've seen say that a reboot solved the issue with no follow-ups. For me, that fix is temporary. A few days later, the problem is back again.

Has anyone else had this problem?

Answer 1

That is very unusual behavior and should not be happening. Try restoring the firmware of the ATV by plugging it into a computer, opening iTunes, and selecting Restore.

Note you will have to re-enter all of your passwords into the ATV afterwards.