Google TV Keeps Restarting? Diagnose the Problem and Fix It

If your Google TV keeps restarting, the first thing to identify is when the restart happens. Does the device repeatedly show the Google TV logo without reaching the home screen? Does it restart while you’re watching something? Or does it reboot only when you open a particular app?

These symptoms can point to different problems. An external streaming device may have an unstable power supply, while a television with Google TV built in may be experiencing a software or hardware issue. A restart that happens only when opening one app requires a different approach from a device that cannot finish starting up.

This guide covers televisions with Google TV built in, Chromecast with Google TV, and Google TV Streamer. Where troubleshooting differs between these devices, the instructions explain which steps apply to your setup.

Start with the symptom that most closely matches what you’re seeing.

Quick Diagnosis: Start Here

What you’re seeing	Start here
Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer repeatedly restarts or displays a low-power warning	Go to Fix 1
Google TV started restarting unexpectedly and previously worked normally	Go to Fix 2
Google TV restarts after running for some time or feels unusually hot	Go to Fix 3
Google TV restarts only when you open or use a particular app	Go to Fix 4
Google TV reaches the home screen but continues restarting during normal use	Go to Fix 5
Restarting began around a software update, or an update appears to be stuck	Go to Fix 6
A television with Google TV built in repeatedly restarts, even before you can use its apps	Go to Fix 7
Chromecast with Google TV displays an Android recovery screen	Go to Fix 8
Google TV continues restarting after the relevant troubleshooting steps	Go to Fix 9

Google TV Keeps Restarting. Why This Happens

Google TV restarting repeatedly doesn’t always indicate a serious hardware problem.

For external streaming devices, an inadequate power adapter, incompatible USB cable or unstable power connection can prevent the device from operating normally. Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer can even become stuck in a reboot loop when their power requirements aren’t met.

Software problems are another possibility. An app may crash, a system update may encounter a problem, or the device may become unresponsive during normal operation.

Heat can also be relevant, particularly when a device restarts after prolonged use or is installed in a poorly ventilated location. However, a warm device alone doesn’t establish that overheating is causing the problem.

For televisions with Google TV built in, the television’s own power system, manufacturer-specific software and connected equipment may also need to be considered.

The key is to determine whether the entire device is restarting or whether you’re experiencing a different problem, such as an app closing or the television briefly losing its picture.

Fix 1: Check the Power Supply on External Google TV Devices

Use this fix if you have Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer.

If your streaming device repeatedly shows its startup logo, restarts before reaching the home screen or displays a low-power warning, begin with its power connection.

Google specifically identifies insufficient power and incompatible cables as possible causes of startup and reboot-loop problems.

Follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the streaming device from its power source.
2. Check that you’re using the power adapter and cable supplied with the device.
3. Connect the adapter directly to a reliable wall socket.
4. Make sure the power cable is fully inserted into both the adapter and the streaming device.
5. Reconnect the device and allow it to start.

If your Chromecast is powered through a television’s USB port, switch to its supplied wall adapter.

Avoid using an unverified replacement cable or adapter. Also remove any unnecessary USB-C hubs, switches or other accessories between the streaming device and its power supply.

If the device starts normally after changing the power connection, continue using the recommended power setup.

For televisions with Google TV built in: This particular fix doesn’t apply. Use the television’s own power cable and follow the manufacturer’s power troubleshooting instructions.

Fix 2: Perform a Proper Power Restart

If the restarting began unexpectedly, try a controlled power restart.

This can clear a temporary problem without deleting your apps, accounts or settings.

For Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer:

1. Disconnect the streaming device’s power cable.
2. Leave it disconnected for approximately one minute.
3. Reconnect the power cable.
4. Allow the device to finish starting.

Removing Chromecast from the television’s HDMI port alone does not restart it. You must disconnect its power source.

For a television with Google TV built in:

If the television is responsive, open:

Settings → System → Restart

If the television is unresponsive, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for performing a power restart. On many televisions, this involves disconnecting the television from power briefly before reconnecting it.

If your television uses a separate power adapter or has a manufacturer-specific restart procedure, follow its documentation.

Once Google TV starts, use it normally and check whether the unexpected restarts return.

Fix 3: Check for Heat and Poor Ventilation

If Google TV restarts mainly after running for an extended period, inspect its physical setup.

External streaming devices can become warm during normal operation. However, if the device feels unusually hot and repeatedly restarts after prolonged use, its operating environment deserves attention.

Turn the device off and disconnect its power.

Allow it to cool before handling or repositioning it.

Then check whether:

• The device is tightly enclosed behind the television or inside a crowded cabinet.
• It is positioned directly against another device that generates heat.
• Its ventilation openings, if present, are obstructed.
• It is exposed to direct sunlight or another nearby heat source.

Move the device to a more open location where practical, without placing strain on its cables or HDMI connection.

For televisions with Google TV built in, make sure the television’s ventilation openings are unobstructed and that it has the clearance recommended by its manufacturer.

Reconnect the device and test it again.

Important: Heat is only one possible explanation for repeated restarts. If the problem continues in a properly ventilated setup, move to the other relevant fixes rather than assuming that overheating is responsible.

If you notice a burning smell, visible damage or abnormal heat, stop using the device and contact the manufacturer.

Fix 4: Troubleshoot the App if Restarting Happens Only When You Open It

First, distinguish between an app crashing and the entire Google TV device restarting.

If an app closes and returns you to the Google TV home screen, the device itself may not be rebooting.

If you see the Google TV startup logo again and the entire interface reloads, the device is restarting.

When the problem occurs only while opening or using one particular app, start with that app.

Step 1: Force stop the app

If you can reach the Google TV home screen:

1. Open Settings → Apps.
2. Select the affected app.
3. Choose Force stop, if available.
4. Reopen the app and test it.

Step 2: Check for app updates

Open the Google Play Store on your Google TV device and check whether an update is available for the affected app.

Install the update and test again.

Step 3: Clear the app’s cache

If the problem continues, return to the app’s settings and look for its storage or cache controls.

Clear the cache, then reopen the app.

Menu names can vary between devices and software versions.

If the app still causes problems, check whether other streaming apps work normally.

Avoid clearing the app’s data or uninstalling it as your first step, particularly if doing so would remove downloads, preferences or saved account information.

If the entire device continues rebooting while using several different apps, move to Fix 5.

Fix 5: Check for Google TV System and App Updates

If Google TV reaches the home screen but restarts unpredictably during normal use, check for available software updates.

You should perform this step only when the device remains stable long enough to complete an update.

To check for a Google TV system update:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select System.
3. Open About.
4. Select System update.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions if an update is available.

The exact menu wording may vary by manufacturer.

Next, check for updates to your installed apps through the Google Play Store.

Allow any updates to finish before testing the device again.

If Google TV is stable enough to navigate its menus, you can also perform a normal system restart:

Settings → System → Restart

Do not repeatedly attempt an update if the device cannot stay powered on long enough to complete it. Resolve power-related problems first, particularly on external streaming devices.

Fix 6: Check Whether Google TV Is Completing a Software Update

A restart during a system update isn’t necessarily a malfunction.

Google TV devices may restart as part of installing new software. Chromecast and Google TV Streamer can also display a status light indicating that an update is in progress.

If the restarting began while an update was installing, first check whether the device is still displaying an update screen or making progress.

Avoid repeatedly disconnecting power during an active update.

If the device eventually reaches the home screen, check whether the update completed successfully:

Settings → System → About → System update

If an external Google streaming device appears stuck and no longer makes progress, first verify that it has a reliable power connection using Fix 1.

Google provides separate recovery guidance for devices that encounter startup or system problems. If your Chromecast with Google TV displays an Android recovery screen, follow Fix 8.

For a television with Google TV built in, use the manufacturer’s support instructions for an interrupted or unsuccessful software update. Recovery procedures can differ between television brands and models.

Fix 7: Troubleshoot a Television With Google TV Built In

If your television repeatedly restarts before you can open the Google TV home screen, the problem may involve more than an individual streaming app.

Start by checking the television itself.

Step 1: Disconnect external equipment

Turn off the television and disconnect external HDMI devices, USB accessories and other nonessential equipment.

Leave the television connected to its normal power source.

Restart it and check whether the problem continues.

If the television starts normally, reconnect the external devices one at a time to see whether a particular connection is associated with the problem.

Step 2: Check the power connection

Make sure the television’s power cable is securely connected.

If you’re using an extension board or power strip, check whether it is functioning correctly.

Follow the television manufacturer’s guidance for its power connection.

Step 3: Perform a manufacturer-recommended restart

If the television remains responsive long enough, use its normal restart option.

Otherwise, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for restarting your exact model.

Do not use a button combination intended for a different television brand or model.

Step 4: Check the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guidance

If the television continues restarting before the Google TV interface becomes usable, look for startup-loop or repeated-restart instructions for your exact television model.

A manufacturer may provide a specific recovery procedure or recommend service when the television cannot complete startup.

Do not attempt to open the television or repair its internal power components yourself.

Fix 8: Use the Recovery Options if Chromecast Displays an Android Recovery Screen

This fix applies specifically to Chromecast with Google TV when its Android recovery screen is visible.

If your screen displays a message indicating that the system or an application is having problems, Google provides a recovery procedure for this situation.

You must use the physical button on the Chromecast device rather than its voice remote.

1. Locate the button on the back of your Chromecast.
2. Press the button to cycle through the recovery options displayed on the television.
3. Highlight Try again.
4. Press and hold the Chromecast button for approximately three seconds to select it.

The device will attempt to restart.

If Chromecast starts normally, you can return to using it.

If it repeatedly returns to the same Android recovery screen, Google provides a Factory data reset option.

However, that option erases the data stored on Chromecast and requires you to set it up again.

Only proceed with the reset if the restart attempt has failed and you’re prepared to lose the device’s saved settings and data.

Do not use this procedure for a television with Google TV built in or assume that Google TV Streamer has the same physical-button recovery controls. Follow the instructions for your exact device.

Fix 9: Consider a Factory Reset Only After Other Fixes Fail

If Google TV continues restarting after you’ve checked its power supply, performed a proper restart and completed the relevant software troubleshooting, a factory reset may be worth considering.

A factory reset erases the device’s saved data and settings. You will need to set it up again, sign in to your accounts and reinstall your apps.

It also cannot repair a defective power supply or damaged hardware.

If Google TV remains accessible:

On many Google TV devices, the reset option is available under:

Settings → System → About → Factory reset

Follow the on-screen instructions for your particular device.

If you’re using Chromecast with Google TV and cannot access the menus:

Google provides a physical-button reset procedure:

1. Keep Chromecast connected to the television and powered on.
2. Press and hold the button on the back of the Chromecast.
3. The indicator light should begin blinking yellow.
4. Release the button when the light becomes solid white.

Chromecast will begin resetting.

For televisions with Google TV built in: Factory-reset procedures vary by manufacturer. Follow the instructions for your exact model rather than using Chromecast’s button procedure.

If the device continues restarting after a successful factory reset, contact the manufacturer for further diagnosis.

Repeated restarts that persist after the relevant power and software checks may require professional service or device replacement.

How to Prevent Google TV Restarting Problems

Use the supplied power adapter and cable with Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer. Avoid powering these devices through an unsuitable television USB port or incompatible third-party accessories.

Keep your Google TV system and installed apps updated. Allow software updates to finish without unnecessarily interrupting the device’s power.

Make sure your television or external streaming device has adequate ventilation. Avoid placing it in a tightly enclosed space or directly against equipment that generates significant heat.

If restarting begins after installing a particular app or connecting new equipment, test whether the problem continues without that app or accessory.

Finally, pay attention to the restart pattern. A device that repeatedly reboots before reaching the home screen requires different troubleshooting from one that closes a single streaming app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Google TV keep restarting by itself?

Google TV can restart unexpectedly because of power problems, temporary software issues, app-related problems or faults affecting the device itself.

The likely cause depends on whether the restart happens during startup, while opening an app or after the device has been running for some time.

Why does Chromecast with Google TV keep restarting at the logo?

An inadequate power supply or incompatible cable can cause Chromecast with Google TV to become stuck in a reboot loop.

Start by using the supplied power adapter and cable, connecting the adapter to a reliable wall socket and checking that the power connections are secure.

If the device continues restarting, follow the remaining startup and recovery troubleshooting steps.

Can overheating cause Google TV to restart?

Heat-related problems are possible, particularly if the device restarts after prolonged use or operates in a poorly ventilated location.

However, a warm device doesn’t necessarily indicate overheating.

Check the ventilation and physical setup, then investigate power and software problems if restarting continues.

Why does Google TV restart when I open Netflix or another app?

If the entire Google TV device restarts when you open one particular app, begin by checking that app for updates and temporary problems.

If only the app closes and returns you to the home screen, the device may not actually be restarting.

If several apps cause full device reboots, investigate the system and power-related fixes instead.

Why does my Google TV keep restarting after an update?

A device may restart during normal update installation.

If it continues rebooting without completing startup, the update may not have finished successfully, or another issue may be preventing the device from starting.

Check that the device has a reliable power supply and follow the manufacturer’s recovery guidance if it cannot complete startup.

Will a factory reset stop Google TV from restarting?

A factory reset may help if the problem is caused by certain software or configuration issues, but it isn’t guaranteed to resolve repeated restarts.

It will not repair defective hardware or an inadequate power supply.

Try the relevant power, restart, app and system troubleshooting steps before resetting the device.

Is Google TV restarting the same as a black screen?

No.

A restart means the device is rebooting, often displaying its startup logo again before returning to the home screen.

A black screen can occur because of HDMI, display, app or television problems even when the Google TV device itself remains powered on.

If the screen goes black without a visible reboot, use the separate Google TV Black Screen troubleshooting guide.

Related Troubleshooting

Google TV Black Screen? Diagnose the Problem and Fix It

Google TV Apps Not Working or Loading? Diagnose the Problem and Fix It

Google TV Keeps Buffering? Diagnose the Problem and Fix It

Chromecast Keeps Disconnecting? Diagnose the Problem and Fix It