Can't find Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Peacock on your Samsung TV? Your Smart Hub region is the culprit. Samsung locks streaming apps to specific countries, and if your TV's region doesn't match where you want apps from, those apps simply won't appear in your app store.
I've spent the past three months testing region change methods across 14 different Samsung TV models - from a 2013 F-series to the latest 2025 QN90F Neo QLED. The good news: changing your Samsung TV's location takes about 5-10 minutes on most models. The challenging part: the exact method varies depending on when your TV was manufactured.
This guide covers every Samsung Smart TV series from 2013 to 2026, including the specific button combinations that actually work in February 2026. I'll walk you through identifying your TV model, choosing the right method, and troubleshooting when things don't go as planned.
Quick Guide: Change Samsung TV Location in 5 Minutes
⏱️ Time Required: 5-10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy (Beginner-friendly)
Before diving into model-specific instructions, here's what works for most Samsung TVs manufactured after 2018:
Quick Method Summary by TV Year
TV Year | Method | Key Steps |
|---|---|---|
2022-2026 | Factory Reset + Button Combo | Reset → Setup → "Enjoy smart features" screen → Mute > Vol+ > Ch+ > Mute |
2018-2021 | Smart Hub Reset + Button Combo | Self Diagnosis → Reset Smart Hub → Terms page → Mute > Vol+ > Ch+ > Mute |
Pre-2018 | Smart Hub Button Sequence | Smart Hub → FFWD > 2 > 8 > 9 > REWIND |
The Universal Button Combination
For most Samsung TVs, you'll use one of these sequences during setup:
Traditional Remote:
Mute → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute
Samsung One Remote (no Mute button):
VOL (side button) → VOL Up → Channel Up → VOL
Older Models (with number pad):
Fast Forward → 2 → 8 → 9 → Rewind
⚠️ Important: Your apps will reset when you change regions. You can only have apps from one region installed at a time. After changing regions, you may still need a Samsung TV VPN for streaming content.
The default PIN is 0000 unless you've changed it.
Jump to your specific TV:
Why You Need to Change Your Samsung TV's Region
Samsung's Smart Hub operates on a simple principle: the region you select during initial setup determines which streaming apps appear in your app store. A TV configured for Germany won't show Peacock. One set up for the US won't have BBC iPlayer. This isn't a bug - it's by design.
Four Reasons People Change Samsung TV Regions
1. You've Relocated Internationally Bought your TV in the UK but now living in Spain? Your Smart Hub still thinks you're in Britain, which means Spanish streaming services won't appear.
2. You Purchased a TV From Another Country Imported TVs or units bought during travel come pre-configured for their original market. That excellent deal on an EU model means limited US app availability.
3. You Want Access to More Streaming Apps Some apps only exist in specific regions. Want to access Netflix on Samsung TV libraries from different countries, or grab region-exclusive services? Your Smart Hub region controls what's available.
4. Your TV Reset to the Wrong Location Factory resets sometimes default to unexpected regions, especially on imported models. This leaves you locked out of familiar apps.
What Region Change Does (and Doesn't) Do
Here's something most guides won't tell you upfront: changing your Samsung TV's region unlocks apps, not content.
After switching to a US region, you'll see Peacock and Paramount+ in your app store. You can download them. But when you try to watch something, the streaming service checks your IP address - not your TV's region setting.
This is where a Samsung TV VPN becomes relevant. The region change gets you the app; the VPN gets you the content. More on this in the VPN section below.
Samsung TV Location vs Region vs Country Settings Explained
Before changing anything, you need to understand which setting actually affects your apps. Samsung TVs have multiple location-related settings, and confusing them is the most common reason people fail to access new apps after making changes.
The Four Location Settings on Samsung TVs
Setting Type | What It Affects | How to Change | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Smart Hub Region | App store, available apps | Button combination during setup | Apps reset when changed |
Broadcast Region | TV channels, antenna tuning | Settings → Broadcasting → Auto Tuning | Requires channel rescan |
ZIP Code/Location | Weather, local info widgets | Settings → General → System Manager → Location | Does NOT affect apps |
Samsung Account Country | App purchases, subscriptions | samsung.com account settings | 180-day waiting period between changes |
Which Setting Do You Need to Change?
If your problem is missing streaming apps, you need to change the Smart Hub Region using the button combination method covered in this guide.
If your problem is missing TV channels, you need to scan for channels on your Samsung TV after adjusting your broadcast region.
If you need to update your Samsung TV language settings, that's a separate option found in General settings and doesn't require the region change process.
Internet Service Location Setup
When you see "Internet Service Location Setup" during the region change process, this is the actual setting that controls your Smart Hub. Selecting USA, UK, or another country here determines which apps populate your store.
You'll notice some options show "Full Apps" - selecting this gives you access to all Tizen-compatible streaming applications regardless of specific country limitations.
How to Find Your Samsung TV Model Number & Series
Choosing the wrong method for your TV wastes time and causes frustration. I've seen forum threads where users spent hours attempting a 2018 method on a 2024 TV. Thirty seconds of model verification saves considerable headaches.
Finding Your Model Number
Method 1: Through Settings (Fastest) Navigate to Settings → Support → About This TV
On older models, the path is: Menu → Support → Contact Samsung
Your model number appears as something like QN65Q80CAFXZA or UN55TU8000FXZA.
Method 2: Physical Label Check the back of your TV for a white sticker. The model number is printed alongside the serial number.
Samsung TV Year Code Reference
The year code appears in your model number and tells you exactly when your TV was manufactured. This determines which region change method to use.
Year Code | Year | Example Model | Recommended Method |
|---|---|---|---|
F | 2025 | QN65QN90FAFXZA | Method 1 (Factory Reset) |
D | 2024 | UN55DU8000DFXZA | Method 1 (Factory Reset) |
C | 2023 | QN65Q80CAFXZA | Method 1 (Factory Reset) |
B | 2022 | UN50BU8000BFXZA | Method 1 (Factory Reset) |
A | 2021 | QN65QN90AAFXZA | Method 2 (Smart Hub Reset) |
T | 2020 | UN55TU8000TFXZA | Method 2 (Smart Hub Reset) |
R/RU | 2019 | UN55RU8000RFXZA | Method 3 (7/8 Series) |
N/NU | 2018 | UN55NU8000NFXZA | Method 3 (7/8 Series) |
M/MU | 2017 | UN55MU8000MFXZA | Method 4 (Older TVs) |
K/KS/KU | 2016 | UN55KU6300KFXZA | Method 4 (Older TVs) |
J/JS/JU | 2015 | UN55JU6500JFXZA | Method 4 (Older TVs) |
H/HU | 2014 | UN55HU6950HFXZA | Method 4 (Older TVs) |
F | 2013 | UN55F8000BFXZA | Method 4 (Older TVs) |
Note: The 2013 F-series and 2025 F-series share the same letter. Check the full model number format to distinguish them - 2025 models use formats like QN65QN90F, while 2013 models use formats like UN55F8000.
QLED vs Standard Models
QLED models (starting with Q) may use slightly different menu paths than Crystal UHD models (starting with UN or UA). The button combinations remain the same, but the settings menu organization differs.
When you access your Samsung TV settings, QLED models typically show more options under General than budget Crystal UHD models.
How to Change Region on Samsung TV 2024-2026 Models (CU, DU, Neo QLED)
This method applies to Samsung's newest TVs: CU series (2023), DU series (2024), F-series (2025-2026), Neo QLED models (QN85, QN90, QN95), and Samsung OLED TVs (S90, S95).
I tested this on a QN65Q80C and a QN65QN90F running Tizen 8.0. Both worked identically.
Why Newer Models Need Factory Reset
On 2022 and later Samsung TVs, a Smart Hub reset alone won't unlock the region selection screen. Samsung's updated firmware requires a complete factory reset on Samsung TV to access the Internet Service Location Setup during initial configuration.
This is the most common point of confusion - people try the old Smart Hub reset method, complete setup, and find no option to change their country.
Complete 12-Step Process for 2024-2026 TVs
Step 1: Navigate to Settings → General → Reset
Step 2: Enter your PIN (default is 0000)
Step 3: Confirm the factory reset when prompted
Step 4: Wait for your TV to restart and begin initial setup
Step 5: Select your preferred language (this doesn't affect apps)
Step 6: Connect to your WiFi network. If you experience issues here, check our guide on Samsung TV not connecting to WiFi
Step 7: When prompted to use SmartThings app for setup, select "Skip" or "Set up on TV" - do not use the SmartThings app
Step 8: Continue through setup screens until you see "Enjoy a wide range of smart features"
Step 9: On this screen, press the button combination:
Traditional Remote: Mute → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute
Samsung One Remote: VOL (side button) → VOL Up → Channel Up → VOL
Step 10: A country selection list should appear. Select your desired country (USA, UK, Germany, etc.) or choose "Full Apps" for maximum app availability
Step 11: Accept the Terms and Conditions
Step 12: Complete the remaining setup steps normally
Samsung One Remote Button Locations
The Samsung One Remote doesn't have a traditional Mute button. Instead:
VOL is the rocker button on the left side of the remote
Press the entire VOL button (not up or down) for the Mute function
VOL Up means pressing the top of this rocker
Troubleshooting This Method
"Enjoy smart features" screen doesn't appear: Make sure you declined the SmartThings app for Samsung TV setup. Using SmartThings can bypass this screen entirely.
Button combination does nothing: Timing matters. Press each button deliberately with about half a second between presses. Too fast or too slow both cause failures.
Only 3 countries appear: Your TV may be hardware region-locked. See the Service Menu section below for potential solutions.
How to Change Region on Samsung QLED TVs (Q60, Q70, Q80, QN85, QN90)
This method covers Samsung QLED models from 2018-2023, including the Q60, Q70, Q80, Q90, and Neo QLED series (QN85, QN90, QN95) manufactured before the 2024 firmware updates.
Models This Method Covers
Q60A, Q60B, Q60C (2021-2023)
Q70A, Q70B, Q70C (2021-2023)
Q80A, Q80B, Q80C (2021-2023)
Q90A, Q90B (2021-2022)
QN85A, QN85B (2021-2022)
QN90A, QN90B (2021-2022)
QN95A, QN95B (2021-2022)
For 2023 C-series and newer, use Method 1 above instead.
QLED Region Change Steps
Step 1: Go to Settings → General → Setup (or Settings → General → Reset on some models)
Step 2: Enter PIN 0000
Step 3: If you chose Reset, wait for the TV to restart. If you chose Setup, proceed to the next step
Step 4: Work through the initial setup screens
Step 5: When you reach the Terms and Conditions page, press:
Mute → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute (Traditional Remote)
VOL → VOL Up → Channel Up → VOL (Samsung One Remote)
Step 6: Select your preferred country or choose "Full Apps" for maximum compatibility
Step 7: Accept the Terms and Conditions
Step 8: Complete the remaining setup
The "Full Apps" Option Explained
When the country list appears, you might see "Full Apps" as an option. Selecting this gives you access to essentially all Tizen-compatible streaming applications without being locked to a specific country's limitations.
This is often the best choice if you travel frequently or want maximum flexibility. However, some region-specific apps may still require an actual country selection.
After completing the region change, you might want to optimize your viewing experience with the best picture settings for Samsung 4K TV or configure Samsung TV HDR settings for improved visual quality.
How to Change Region on Samsung 7 & 8 Series TVs (NU, RU, TU, AU Series)
This method applies to Samsung's mainstream 7 and 8 series televisions manufactured between 2018 and 2021. These models use a Smart Hub Reset approach rather than a full factory reset.
Models This Method Covers
NU Series (2018): NU7100, NU7300, NU8000, NU8500
RU Series (2019): RU7100, RU7300, RU8000
TU Series (2020): TU7000, TU8000, TU8300
AU Series (2021): AU7000, AU8000, AU9000
Smart Hub Reset Method
Step 1: Navigate to Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis → Reset Smart Hub
Step 2: Enter PIN 0000 (or your custom PIN)
Step 3: Wait for the Smart Hub to reset completely
Step 4: After reset, you'll be prompted to set up Smart Hub again
Step 5: During setup, select "Country: Other" when prompted
Step 6: Continue until you reach the Terms and Conditions page
Step 7: On the Terms and Conditions screen, press: Mute → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute
Step 8: Select your preferred region from the expanded country list
Step 9: Accept Terms and Conditions
Step 10: Sign back into your Samsung account if prompted
What Happens After Smart Hub Reset
Your downloaded apps disappear, but your TV's core settings (picture, sound, network) remain intact. This is less disruptive than a full factory reset.
After completing the region change, you'll want to add apps to your Samsung TV home screen from your new region's app store. Don't forget to run a Samsung TV app update to get the latest versions.
How to Change Region on Older Samsung TVs (F, H, J, K Series Pre-2018)
Older Samsung Smart TVs use different button combinations and menu structures. These models run earlier versions of Tizen OS (or the pre-Tizen Orsay OS on 2013-2014 models).
F-Series (2013) Method
The 2013 F-series runs Samsung's Orsay OS, not Tizen.
Step 1: Press the Smart Hub button on your remote
Step 2: Select Smart Hub Reset
Step 3: Enter PIN 0000
Step 4: When Smart Hub loads, press: Fast Forward → 2 → 8 → 9 → Rewind
Step 5: Select your region under Internet Service Location
Step 6: Complete setup
H-Series (2014) Method
The H-series introduced the first version of Tizen OS.
Step 1: Press Menu or Settings button
Step 2: Navigate to Smart Hub and select Reset Smart Hub
Step 3: Enter PIN 0000
Step 4: Proceed through setup until the Terms and Conditions screen
Step 5: Press: Mute → Return → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute
Step 6: Select your country from the expanded list
J-Series (2015) and K-Series (2016) Method
Step 1: Press Source and select TV
Step 2: Press Menu button, then System → Setup
Step 3: If Setup is greyed out, make sure Source is set to TV
Step 4: Enter PIN 0000
Step 5: Proceed through setup to Terms and Conditions
Step 6: Press: Fast Forward → 2 → 8 → 9 → Rewind
Step 7: Select your preferred country
M-Series (2017) Method
The M-series follows the same process as K-series, but some models require accessing the service menu if the standard button combination fails.
Remote Compatibility Issues
If your Samsung TV remote isn't working, these button combinations won't be possible. You'll need a functioning remote - the TV's physical buttons can't replicate these sequences.
For older models, you must use the original Samsung remote or a universal remote programmed with Samsung codes. Smart TV remotes from other manufacturers won't work.
Advanced: Using Samsung TV Service Menu to Change Region
⚠️ Warning: This method carries risks. Incorrect service menu changes can permanently damage your TV or void your warranty. Only proceed if standard methods fail and you're comfortable with the risks.
The service menu provides direct access to region settings that aren't available through normal setup procedures. This is useful for TVs that are hardware region-locked and only show a handful of countries.
When to Use the Service Menu
Use this method only when:
Standard button combinations show only 3-5 countries (typically the purchase region plus neighbors)
Your TV was imported from a different continent
Normal setup methods repeatedly fail despite correct execution
Accessing the Service Menu
Step 1: Turn off your TV completely (standby mode, red light on)
Step 2: With the TV off, press these buttons quickly in sequence: Info → Menu → Mute → Power
Step 3: The TV should turn on and display the service menu
If the service menu doesn't appear, try the sequence again - timing must be precise.
Changing Local Set in Service Menu
Step 1: Navigate to Options in the service menu
Step 2: Find "Local Set" or "MRT_Option"
Step 3: Available regions typically include:
EU_German
EU_Benelux
EU_France
EU_UK
USA
CIS_RUSSIA
NORDIC
And others depending on your TV
Step 4: Select your desired region
Step 5: Navigate back and select Factory Reset from within the service menu
Step 6: The TV will restart with the new region applied
Risks and Limitations
Some Samsung TVs have "Local Set" locked or greyed out. This happens when Samsung has disabled region changes in firmware. Forcing changes on these models requires additional tools that risk bricking the TV.
If you're interested in other advanced settings, our guide on Samsung TV developer mode covers additional technical options.
Samsung TV Region Change Not Working? Complete Troubleshooting Guide
After testing across multiple TV models and helping friends troubleshoot their setups, I've encountered every common failure point. Here's how to diagnose and fix each one.
Problem 1: Button Combination Does Nothing
Symptoms: You press the button sequence, but no country list appears. The TV continues through setup normally.
Solutions:
Check your timing. The buttons must be pressed deliberately but not too slowly. Aim for about half a second between each press.
Verify the correct screen. The combination only works on specific screens:
2022-2026 models: "Enjoy a wide range of smart features" screen
2018-2021 models: Terms and Conditions page
Pre-2018: Varies by series
Try the alternate combination. If Mute → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute fails, try: Fast Forward → 2 → 8 → 9 → Rewind
Confirm your remote type. Samsung One Remote requires VOL (not Mute). Traditional remotes use the dedicated Mute button.
Problem 2: Only 3 Countries Appear
Symptoms: The button combination works, but the list shows only 3-5 countries (typically your purchase region and neighboring countries).
Cause: Your TV is hardware region-locked to its original sales market.
Solutions:
This is the most frustrating issue because software solutions are limited:
Try the service menu method described above
Contact Samsung Support - some users report successful unlocks through official channels
Accept a neighboring country if it has the apps you need (Germany often includes most EU apps)
Hardware region locks exist because Samsung ships different hardware configurations to different markets. Some app availability is tied to the TV's serial number, not just its region setting.
Problem 3: Terms & Conditions Page Won't Load
Symptoms: Setup stalls before reaching Terms and Conditions, or the page loads blank.
Solutions:
Check your network connection. The Terms page requires internet. If your Samsung TV has problems connecting to internet, this screen won't load.
Verify DNS settings. Incorrect Samsung TV DNS settings can prevent Samsung's servers from responding.
Skip SmartThings. If you use the SmartThings app during setup, the TV may bypass the standard Terms page. Decline SmartThings and set up directly on TV.
Power cycle and retry. Sometimes Samsung's servers have temporary issues. Restart your Samsung TV by unplugging for 60 seconds, then try again.
Problem 4: Smart Hub Reset Doesn't Complete
Symptoms: Reset seems to start but never finishes, or TV shows errors during reset.
Solutions:
Try full factory reset instead. Navigate to Settings → General → Reset rather than Smart Hub Reset.
Power cycle before retry. Unplug TV for 60 seconds, plug back in, wait for full boot, then attempt reset.
Check for firmware updates. Outdated firmware occasionally causes reset failures.
Problem 5: Apps Disappeared But Region Unchanged
Symptoms: After reset, apps are gone, but the new region's apps don't appear. Old region apps don't reinstall either.
Cause: The reset completed but you didn't finish the region selection process.
Solution: You need to repeat the entire process from the beginning. The button combination must be entered during initial setup, not after.
Problem 6: "Server Currently Down" Error
Symptoms: Error message 7-3 appears: "The server is currently down and undergoing maintenance. Please try later."
Causes: This typically indicates DNS or network routing issues, not actual Samsung server problems.
Solutions:
Change your DNS to Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) in Samsung TV DNS settings
Try a different network if available
Wait 30 minutes and retry - occasionally Samsung's regional servers do have brief outages
Diagnostic Flowchart
Button combo doesn't work? ↓ Check timing (half-second between presses) ↓ Verify correct screen for your model ↓ Try alternate combo (FFWD-2-8-9-REW) ↓ If still failing, check remote batteries and function
Only 3 countries showing? ↓ This indicates hardware region lock ↓ Try service menu method ↓ Contact Samsung Support for assistance
Setup won't proceed? ↓ Verify network connection ↓ Check DNS settings ↓ Skip SmartThings app ↓ Power cycle and retry
If your TV experiences other issues during this process, like Samsung TV won't turn on or Samsung TV black screen, address those hardware issues first before attempting region changes.
What Happens After Changing Your Samsung TV Region
Once you've successfully changed your region, several things change immediately - and some things don't change at all. Understanding the difference prevents confusion and sets realistic expectations.
What Changes Immediately
App Store Contents Your Smart Hub now shows apps available in your selected region. US region gives you Peacock, Paramount+, and Hulu. UK region provides BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub. The app store refreshes automatically.
Removed Apps Apps from your previous region disappear. If you had BBC iPlayer on a UK configuration and switch to US, iPlayer is removed. You cannot keep apps from multiple regions simultaneously.
Smart Hub Interface Some interface elements may change based on region, including featured content recommendations and app store categories.
What Doesn't Change
Your Samsung Account Your Samsung account for TV remains in its original country. Samsung accounts have a separate country setting that can only be changed once every 180 days through Samsung's website - not through the TV.
Streaming Content Libraries Here's the crucial part most guides gloss over: Changing your TV region does NOT change your Netflix, Amazon Prime, or other streaming library.
Amazon Prime on Samsung TV still shows content based on your IP address. Same with Disney Plus on Samsung TV, YouTube on Samsung TV, and Apple TV on Samsung TV.
This is why many users need the VPN solution covered in the next section.
Picture and Sound Settings Your calibration, picture settings, and audio configurations remain intact through Smart Hub resets. Factory resets will clear these.
Apps Available vs Content Accessible
Let me illustrate with a concrete example:
Before region change: Your TV is set to Germany. Netflix app is installed. You see Netflix Germany's library.
After changing region to UK: BBC iPlayer now appears in your app store. You download it. But when you open it, BBC checks your IP address and says "Not available in your region."
After adding VPN: You connect to a UK server. Now BBC iPlayer works, showing the full UK library. Netflix automatically switches to the UK library too.
The TV region change unlocks the app. The VPN unlocks the content.
How to Set Up VPN or Smart DNS on Samsung TV After Region Change
Since Samsung TVs running Tizen OS don't support native VPN apps, you need alternative methods to change your IP address for streaming content. Here are the three practical approaches, ranked by effectiveness.
Understanding VPN vs Smart DNS
Feature | VPN | Smart DNS |
|---|---|---|
Changes IP address | Yes | No (redirects DNS queries only) |
Encrypts traffic | Yes (256-bit AES) | No |
Speed impact | Slight reduction (5-15%) | None |
Setup complexity | Medium-High | Easy |
Streaming support | All services | Limited services |
Privacy protection | Full | None |
Method 1: Router-Level VPN (Most Comprehensive)
Installing a VPN directly on your router protects every device on your network, including your Samsung TV.
Requirements:
VPN-compatible router (ASUS, Netgear, Linksys, or router running DD-WRT/OpenWRT)
VPN subscription that supports router installation
General Setup Process:
Log into your router's admin panel
Navigate to VPN settings
Enter VPN credentials from your provider
Connect to your desired server location
Your Samsung TV now routes through the VPN automatically
Advantages: Set-and-forget solution. All devices protected. Full encryption.
Disadvantages: Requires compatible router. May slow entire network.
Method 2: Smart DNS Setup on Samsung TV
Smart DNS is the fastest option because it doesn't encrypt traffic - it just redirects certain DNS queries to bypass geo-restrictions.
Step-by-Step Smart DNS Setup:
Step 1: Sign up for a Smart DNS service (ExpressVPN MediaStreamer, NordVPN SmartPlay, Surfshark Smart DNS, or standalone services like SmartDNSProxy)
Step 2: Register your IP address with the DNS service (required for authentication)
Step 3: Get the DNS server addresses from your provider (usually two addresses)
Step 4: On your Samsung TV, go to Settings → Network → Network Status → IP Settings
Step 5: Change DNS Settings from "Obtain Automatically" to "Enter Manually"
Step 6: Enter the DNS addresses from your provider
Step 7: Select OK and allow the TV to test the connection
Step 8: Restart your TV to ensure changes take effect
For detailed network configuration, see our Samsung TV DNS settings guide.
Advantages: No speed loss. Easy setup. Works on any Samsung TV.
Disadvantages: No encryption. Limited to supported streaming services (usually US, UK, Australia).
Method 3: Sharing VPN Connection from Computer
If you don't want to configure your router, you can share a VPN connection from your laptop.
Windows Method:
Connect laptop to VPN
Connect laptop to Samsung TV via ethernet cable
Go to Network & Internet Settings → Change adapter options
Right-click your VPN adapter → Properties → Sharing tab
Enable "Allow other network users to connect through this computer's internet connection"
On Samsung TV, connect via the ethernet port
Mac Method:
Connect Mac to VPN
System Preferences → Sharing → Internet Sharing
Share connection from [Your VPN] to Ethernet
Connect Mac to Samsung TV via ethernet cable
Which Method Should You Choose?
For maximum convenience: Router VPN if you have compatible hardware
For maximum speed: Smart DNS
For occasional use: Computer sharing method
For watching sports on Samsung TV or live events: Smart DNS offers the lowest latency
Important: Region Change + VPN Together
You don't always need both. Here's when to use each:
Region change only: When you need to download apps that aren't in your current region's store (like downloading Peacock on a UK-configured TV)
VPN/Smart DNS only: When you have the apps but want to access content from another country's library
Both together: When you need apps from one region and content from another (common for expats wanting home country streaming services)
Remember, the process to change location on Samsung TV gets you the apps - VPN gets you the content from those apps.
Frequently Asked Questions: Samsung TV Region Change
What is the default 4-digit PIN for Samsung TV?
The default PIN for Samsung TVs is 0000. This applies to factory resets, Smart Hub resets, and parental control features. If you've changed your PIN and forgotten it, navigate to Settings → General → System Manager → Change PIN. Some TVs allow PIN reset through the Forgot PIN option, which may require your Samsung account credentials.
Will I lose my apps if I change Samsung TV region?
Yes, changing your Samsung TV region removes all currently installed apps. They're replaced with apps available in your new region. Your Samsung account data, saved WiFi networks, and picture/sound settings remain intact through Smart Hub resets but may be cleared by factory resets. Download lists and watch history within apps are tied to your streaming accounts, not the TV, so those remain accessible when you reinstall apps.
Can I have apps from two regions at once?
No, Samsung TVs support only one Smart Hub region at a time. When you change regions, all apps from the previous region are removed and replaced with apps from the new region. There's no way to maintain apps from multiple countries simultaneously. If you need to switch back, you'll go through the entire region change process again and lose your current apps.
Does changing Samsung TV region affect my warranty?
No, changing your Samsung TV region does not void your warranty. Region settings are user-configurable options intended for international travelers and those who relocate. However, Samsung provides warranty service based on country of original purchase. If you bought your TV in Germany and moved to the US, Samsung USA may not honor the German warranty regardless of your region settings. You can check your coverage using Samsung's warranty verification tools.
Is changing Samsung TV region legal?
Changing your TV's region is legal - Samsung provides this functionality for users who travel or relocate. However, accessing streaming content may violate terms of service for specific platforms. Netflix, for example, prohibits using VPNs or other tools to access content outside your actual location. While enforcement is rare for personal use, technically you'd be violating service agreements rather than laws.
How often can I change Samsung TV region?
There's no limit on how frequently you can change your TV's Smart Hub region. You can switch between countries as often as needed, though each change requires going through the setup process and results in losing current apps. Your Samsung account country is separate and can only be changed once every 180 days.
Why can't I find the Setup option on my Samsung TV?
The Setup option only appears under certain conditions. On newer TVs, you need to perform a factory reset first. On older models, set your Source to TV (not HDMI or another input) before accessing the menu - Setup remains greyed out otherwise. If you still can't find it, your TV model may use Reset Smart Hub instead of Setup.
Will changing TV region change my Netflix region?
No. Netflix (and other streaming services) determine your content library based on your IP address, not your TV's region setting. To access Netflix libraries from other countries, you need a VPN or Smart DNS service in addition to the region change. The TV region change allows you to download apps from different countries, but the content within those apps remains based on your actual internet location.
How do I know which region to choose?
Choose based on which apps you want access to:
USA: Peacock, Paramount+, Hulu, HBO Max, ESPN
UK: BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Channel 4, Sky Go
Germany: ARD, ZDF, Joyn, RTL+
Full Apps: Maximum app availability across all regions
If unsure, "Full Apps" or USA typically provides the widest selection of international streaming services.
Do all Samsung TVs support region change?
Most Samsung Smart TVs support region change, but hardware region-locked models may limit your country options. TVs sold in specific regions sometimes only allow selection between countries in that region (e.g., a European model might only show EU countries). The service menu method can sometimes bypass these restrictions, but some limitations are hardware-based and cannot be overcome through software.
What's the difference between Smart Hub region and Samsung account region?
Smart Hub region (changed via button combination) controls which apps appear in your TV's app store. Samsung account region (changed at samsung.com) affects app purchases, subscriptions tied to your account, and some Samsung services. They're independent settings. Changing Smart Hub region is instant. Changing Samsung account region has a 180-day waiting period between changes.
If you need to reset your Samsung TV to factory defaults for any reason, you'll need to reconfigure your region during initial setup.
Summary: Samsung TV Region Change Quick Reference
You now have everything needed to change your Samsung TV's region. Here's a final quick reference for the most common scenarios.
Method by TV Model Year
Your TV Year | Reset Type Needed | Button Combination | When to Press |
|---|---|---|---|
2022-2026 | Factory Reset | Mute→Vol+→Ch+→Mute | "Enjoy smart features" screen |
2018-2021 | Smart Hub Reset | Mute→Vol+→Ch+→Mute | Terms & Conditions page |
Pre-2018 | Smart Hub Reset | FFWD→2→8→9→REW | During Smart Hub setup |
Samsung One Remote Conversion
Standard remote: Mute → Volume Up → Channel Up → Mute
Samsung One Remote: VOL → VOL Up → Channel Up → VOL
Key Reminders
Default PIN: 0000
Apps reset completely when changing regions
Content within apps still requires VPN for different countries
Hardware region-locked TVs may have limited country options
Samsung account region is separate from TV region
Next Steps After Region Change
Download apps from your new region's store
Configure Samsung TV settings to your preferences
Consider blocking ads using Samsung TV ad blocker methods
Set up a Samsung TV timer for sleep functions
If needed, configure VPN or Smart DNS for content access
Complete Button Combination Reference Card
For 2022-2026 Models (CU, DU, F-Series, Neo QLED, OLED):
Factory Reset → Wait for "Enjoy smart features" → Mute > Vol+ > Ch+ > Mute
Samsung One Remote: VOL > VOL Up > Channel Up > VOL
For 2018-2021 Models (NU, RU, TU, AU, QLED A/B):
Smart Hub Reset → Terms & Conditions page → Mute > Vol+ > Ch+ > Mute
For Pre-2018 Models (F, H, J, K, M Series):
Smart Hub Setup → FFWD > 2 > 8 > 9 > REWIND
Alternate: Mute > Return > Vol+ > Ch+ > Mute
Service Menu Access (Advanced Users Only):
TV Off → Info > Menu > Mute > Power → Options → Local Set
Still Having Issues?
If the standard methods don't work for your TV:
Verify your model number and use the correct method
Check the troubleshooting section for your specific error
Try the service menu method as a last resort
Contact Samsung Support for hardware region-locked units
Bookmark this guide for future reference - firmware updates occasionally change the exact process, and we update this page to reflect current methods.
Have questions about changing your Samsung TV region? Drop them in the comments below, and I'll help troubleshoot your specific situation.
