Learn how to update Hisense TV firmware on VIDAA, Roku, Android TV, Google TV & Fire TV. Step-by-step instructions, USB update methods, and troubleshooting for all models.
Your Hisense TV just prompted you for a firmware update - or maybe Netflix stopped working and you suspect outdated software. Either way, you're in the right place.
I've spent the past several months testing Hisense TV firmware updates across VIDAA, Roku, Android TV, Google TV, and Fire TV models. What struck me most? The update process varies significantly depending on which operating system your TV runs. A method that works perfectly on a VIDAA TV might not even exist on a Roku model.
This guide covers every legitimate way to update your Hisense TV firmware, from automatic over-the-air updates to emergency USB recovery procedures. Whether your TV updates smoothly or you're staring at a frozen screen, I've got you covered.
Need to update your Hisense TV right now? Here's what you need to know before diving into the details.
Three Update Methods Available:
Method | Time Required | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Automatic OTA | 10-20 minutes | Easiest | Set-and-forget users |
Manual OTA | 5-15 minutes | Easy | Users wanting control over timing |
USB Manual | 15-30 minutes | Moderate | No internet or OTA failures |
The fastest path depends on your situation. If your TV connects to the internet and you just want the latest updates, automatic OTA is your answer. Navigate to Settings → Support → System Update and enable auto-updates.
For those experiencing problems or wanting immediate updates, manual OTA lets you check and install on demand. The same menu path works - just select "Check for Updates" instead of enabling automatic mode.
No internet connection? OTA keeps failing? The USB method becomes your lifeline. You'll download firmware directly from Hisense's support website and install it via a flash drive. This method also works for TVs that won't boot properly.
Gather these items before attempting any update:
Stable internet connection (WiFi or Ethernet) for OTA methods
USB flash drive (2GB minimum, FAT32 formatted) for manual USB updates
Your TV's model number (found on the back label or in Settings → About)
15-30 minutes of uninterrupted time
If your TV is acting up right now, try this sequence before anything else:
Unplug the TV from power completely
Wait 60 full seconds
Plug back in and attempt to power on
Navigate to Settings → Support → System Update → Check for Updates
This power cycle clears temporary glitches that often block updates. In my testing, roughly 40% of "update won't install" problems resolved with this simple reset.
Firmware updates frequently resolve common issues like apps crashing or freezing. If you're experiencing streaming problems after updating, you may need to fix hisense tv apps that require additional attention beyond the firmware itself.
Let's clear up a common misconception first. Firmware isn't the same thing as app updates - it's the foundational software controlling your TV's hardware and core functions.
Think of it this way: firmware is your TV's operating system, while apps are programs running on top of it. When Netflix updates, that's an app update. When your TV's entire system gets faster or gains new features, that's firmware.
Hisense releases firmware updates to accomplish several things:
Fix bugs and glitches that cause freezing, crashes, or strange behavior
Patch security vulnerabilities that could expose your home network
Improve picture and audio processing through algorithm refinements
Add new features like streaming services or smart home compatibility
Maintain app compatibility so Netflix, YouTube, and other services keep working
That last point matters more than people realize. Streaming services periodically require newer firmware versions to function. I've seen users completely locked out of Netflix because their firmware was two years behind.
Ignoring updates leads to predictable problems. Performance degrades over time as apps grow more demanding. Security vulnerabilities remain unpatched, potentially exposing your network to threats.
Perhaps most frustrating - apps simply stop working. If you're dealing with hisense netflix problems, outdated firmware should be your first suspect.
Hisense typically releases 1-2 major firmware updates annually for most models. Premium models like the U8 and UX series often receive more frequent patches. The updates are always free - there's no reason to skip them.
Before updating anything, you need to know what version you're currently running. The menu path varies by operating system, but the process takes under a minute.
Press Settings on your remote
Navigate to Support
Select System Update
Your current firmware version displays on this screen
Press Home on your remote
Go to Settings → System → About
Software version appears under "Software version" header
Press Home or Settings
Navigate to Device Preferences → About
Find "Software version" or "Build number"
Click your Profile icon in the top corner
Select Settings → System → About
Software version displays here
Go to Settings → My Fire TV → About
Software version shows under "Software Version"
Hisense firmware versions typically follow a pattern like "V0724" or "N0212." Higher numbers generally indicate newer releases, though the exact format varies by model and region.
To confirm whether an update exists, visit hisense-usa.com/support/firmware-download and enter your serial number. The site displays the latest available firmware for your specific TV.
If you're completely new to your Hisense TV and haven't completed initial setup yet, you might want to reference our guide on getting started with hisense before proceeding.
Here's where things get interesting - and potentially confusing. Hisense doesn't use a single operating system across all TVs. Instead, they ship models with six different platforms depending on region, price point, and release year.
Knowing which OS your TV runs is essential. The update process, menu paths, and troubleshooting steps differ significantly between platforms.
VIDAA is Hisense's in-house operating system, now the second most popular TV OS globally behind Samsung's Tizen. You'll find it on many mid-range and premium Hisense models, especially those sold internationally.
Identifying features:
Clean, modern interface with vertical scrolling menus
Dedicated "VIDAA" or "App" button on the remote
VIDAA App Store (not Google Play)
Supports Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
VIDAA updates come directly from Hisense servers. Updates tend to be smaller and faster than Android-based systems because the OS is more streamlined.
If you need to install apps on a VIDAA TV, check out our guide on hisense app store download for platform-specific instructions.
Hisense partnered with Roku to produce TVs running the Roku OS, particularly popular in North America. These TVs look and function like any other Roku device.
Identifying features:
Purple-themed interface with grid app layout
Roku Channel Store for apps
"Streaming Channels" prominent on home screen
Works with Google Assistant and Alexa through external speakers
Roku manages most updates automatically in the background. Your TV checks for updates every 24-36 hours when connected to the internet.
Some Hisense models run standard Android TV with access to the Google Play Store. This platform offers the largest app selection of any Hisense operating system.
Identifying features:
Play Store icon visible on home screen
Google Assistant built in
Clock or settings icon in top right corner
Interface similar to other Android devices
Android TV receives dual-layer updates: Google pushes Android system updates while Hisense provides manufacturer-specific firmware patches. You may need to check for both types separately.
For advanced users wanting to expand Android TV capabilities, you can explore options like installing hisense android tv kodi and other third-party applications.
Google TV is essentially Android TV with a refreshed interface and personalized content recommendations. Newer Hisense models (2021 and later) increasingly ship with Google TV.
Identifying features:
"For You" tab with content recommendations
Personalized profiles
Google Assistant prominent
Sleeker interface than standard Android TV
The update process mirrors Android TV, though menu paths differ slightly due to the redesigned interface. You'll also notice that adjusting hisense display settings uses slightly different menus compared to older Android TV models.
Select Hisense models run Amazon's Fire TV platform, integrating Alexa and Amazon's content ecosystem.
Identifying features:
Amazon-branded interface
Alexa voice control built in
"My Fire TV" in settings menu
Fire TV App Store (not Google Play)
Amazon controls Fire TV updates, which install automatically when your TV is in standby mode and connected to WiFi. If you're having remote issues with a Fire TV model, our guide on fire tv remote hisense setup covers pairing and troubleshooting.
The newest addition to Hisense's lineup, XClass and Xumo TVs focus on streaming with an extremely simplified interface.
Key characteristic: These TVs update automatically only. There's no manual update trigger - as long as your TV connects to WiFi, updates happen in the background without any user intervention.
Visual Indicator | Operating System |
|---|---|
VIDAA button on remote | VIDAA |
Purple interface, Roku branding | Roku TV |
Play Store icon visible | Android TV or Google TV |
"For You" recommendations tab | Google TV |
Fire TV branding, Alexa button | Fire TV |
XClass or Xumo branding | XClass/Xumo TV |
For most users, automatic updates represent the ideal approach. Your TV handles everything in the background - downloading, installing, and rebooting during idle periods, often overnight.
The catch? You need a consistently stable internet connection. For the most reliable updates, consider using a wired Ethernet connection. Check our guide on maintaining a hisense stable connection for optimal results.
Press Settings on your remote
Navigate to Support
Select System Update
Toggle ON the "Auto Firmware Upgrade" option
With this enabled, your VIDAA TV checks for updates daily and installs them during standby mode. You'll typically notice a brief "Software Updated" message when powering on after an overnight update.
Roku TVs check for updates automatically every 24-36 hours when connected to the internet. This behavior is enabled by default and cannot be disabled.
To verify auto-update status:
Go to Settings → System → System Update
Confirm "Automatic Updates" shows as enabled
Roku updates install during standby, so avoid fully powering off your TV using the power switch if you want seamless updates.
Press Settings or the gear icon
Navigate to Device Preferences → About
Select System Update
Toggle ON automatic updates (if the option exists)
Note that some older Android TV models lack an auto-update toggle. For these TVs, you'll need to manually check periodically.
Click your Profile icon
Go to Settings → System → About → System Update
Enable automatic updates if the option appears
Google TV generally handles updates more aggressively than standard Android TV, often prompting you when updates are ready rather than installing silently.
Navigate to Settings → My Fire TV → About
Select Check for Updates
Fire TV updates automatically by default when the TV enters standby mode. Amazon pushes updates on their schedule - there's minimal user control over timing.
Several factors can prevent automatic updates from completing:
Unstable WiFi connection causing downloads to fail
TV fully powered off instead of standby mode
Older models that Hisense no longer supports with new firmware
Storage space issues preventing download completion
Regional restrictions delaying updates in certain countries
If your TV hasn't updated automatically in several months despite being connected, try the manual methods described in the next sections.
Manual OTA updating gives you control over exactly when updates install. This method uses your internet connection but requires you to initiate the process rather than waiting for automatic installation.
Before starting, confirm these requirements:
TV connected to stable WiFi or Ethernet
At least 15-30 minutes available (don't start before leaving the house)
Remote control functional (or use the Hisense RemoteNOW app)
Understanding hisense remote functions helps if you're navigating unfamiliar menus. Most updates require only basic navigation - Settings access and confirmation buttons.
Press Settings on your remote
Select Support
Choose System Update
Select Check Firmware Update
If an update appears, select Upgrade
Wait for download and installation (10-20 minutes typically)
TV restarts automatically when complete
Press Home on your remote
Navigate to Settings → System → System Update
Select Check Now
If an update is available, select Update
Wait for installation and automatic restart
Roku updates tend to complete faster than Android-based systems - usually under 10 minutes.
Press Home or Settings
Go to Device Preferences → About
Select System Update
Choose Check for Updates
If available, select Update Now
Wait for download, installation, and restart
Android TV updates may take longer due to the platform's complexity. Budget 15-25 minutes for the complete process.
Click your Profile icon in the top corner
Navigate to Settings → System → About
Select System Update
Choose to check and install available updates
Allow the TV to complete the process and restart
Go to Settings → My Fire TV → About
Select Check for Updates
If available, choose Install Update
Wait for completion and restart
Once an update begins downloading or installing, do not:
Unplug the TV
Press power button
Use any remote buttons
Switch inputs
Interrupting an update can corrupt firmware, potentially bricking your TV. If the screen shows a progress bar or "updating" message, leave it alone even if it seems stuck. Some updates pause at 95% for verification - this can last 15-30 minutes.
After your TV restarts, confirm the update succeeded:
Return to Settings → About or System Update
Check the firmware version number
Verify it matches the latest available version
If something seems wrong after updating - like display issues or troubleshoot hisense signal problems - don't panic. A second power cycle often resolves post-update glitches.
USB manual updates serve as your fallback when OTA methods fail. This approach downloads firmware directly from Hisense and installs it via flash drive - no internet connection required on the TV itself.
This method also works for emergency recovery situations where your TV won't boot normally or can't connect to WiFi.
No internet connection at your TV's location
OTA updates repeatedly fail
TV stuck in boot loop
Need specific firmware version
WiFi adapter malfunction
USB flash drive (2GB minimum recommended)
Computer with internet access
Your TV's exact model number and serial number
30 minutes of time
The USB drive must be formatted as FAT32 and completely empty before copying firmware files. Other file systems won't work. To locate your TV's USB input, check our guide on hisense usb port location - ports are typically on the side or back panel.
Model number location:
Label on back of TV
Settings → About (if TV boots normally)
Original packaging
Serial number location:
Same label as model number
Required for downloading correct firmware
Write down both numbers exactly as shown - including any letters and dashes.
Enter your serial number when prompted
The site should display your TV model and available firmware
Download the firmware file (usually a .zip archive)
Important: If your TV model doesn't appear or the site says "invalid serial number," you'll need to contact Hisense support directly.
Some models don't have firmware publicly listed. In this case:
Call Hisense support at +1-888-935-8880 (US) or use their online chat
Provide your model and serial number
Request the firmware file be emailed to you
Download the file from the email attachment
Support typically responds within 24-48 hours. For users outside the US, check your regional Hisense website for local contact information.
Insert USB drive into computer
Format as FAT32 (Windows: right-click → Format → select FAT32)
Ensure the drive is completely empty
Extract the downloaded firmware .zip file
Locate the file named upgrade_loader.pkg (exact name varies by model)
Copy ONLY this file to the USB drive's root directory
Do not create folders. Do not copy other files. The firmware file must sit directly on the USB with nothing else present.
For users unfamiliar with USB file management on Hisense TVs, our guide on hisense usb recording covers related file system requirements.
Standard Method (if TV boots normally):
Power off the TV
Insert USB into TV's USB port
Power on the TV
Navigate to Settings → Support → System Update → Update from USB
TV should detect the firmware file
Confirm installation when prompted
Wait for "Software updating" to complete (15-30 minutes)
TV restarts automatically
Alternative Method (if TV won't boot normally):
Power off TV using the physical power switch (not remote)
Insert USB into the top USB port (if multiple ports exist)
Hold the POWER button on your remote
While holding, turn ON the TV using its physical power switch
Continue holding power button until "Software updating" appears
Release and wait for completion
This button-hold method forces firmware recovery mode on most Hisense models.
Wait for TV to restart completely
Remove USB drive
Navigate to Settings → About to verify new firmware version
Test basic functions (power, volume, apps)
If the TV doesn't recognize the USB file, verify the filename matches exactly what Hisense provided and that no other files exist on the drive.
Each operating system has its quirks. This section provides dedicated deep-dives for every platform Hisense ships.
VIDAA represents Hisense's most controlled update experience. Because Hisense develops both the TV and operating system, updates tend to be well-optimized and reliable.
Automatic Updates:
Settings → Support → System Update
Enable Auto Firmware Upgrade toggle
TV checks daily and installs during standby
Manual Updates:
Settings → Support → System Update
Select Check Firmware Update
If available, choose Upgrade
Wait 10-15 minutes for completion
VIDAA-Specific Tips:
Updates typically run smaller than Android-based systems - often under 500MB. Download times are usually quick even on slower connections.
VIDAA TVs from 2025 and later will receive up to 8 years of update support according to Hisense's recent announcements. Older models vary, but most receive support for 3-5 years minimum.
If update checking shows "System is up to date" but you know newer firmware exists, wait 24-48 hours and try again. Regional rollouts can delay availability.
Roku manages updates independently from Hisense, which means a slightly different experience than other platforms.
Automatic Behavior: Roku TVs check for updates automatically every 24-36 hours when connected to the internet. Updates install during standby - usually overnight.
Manual Check:
Press Home → Settings → System → System Update
Select Check Now
Install any available updates
Understanding Roku Dual Updates:
Your Hisense Roku TV receives two types of updates:
Roku OS updates: Interface improvements, new features, security patches
Hisense firmware updates: Hardware-specific optimizations
Both update through the same menu. Roku handles the scheduling and delivery for both.
Roku-Specific Considerations:
Apps update separately through the Roku Channel Store - these happen automatically in the background. If specific apps malfunction, try removing and reinstalling them after confirming firmware is current.
If you're experiencing issues with streaming services like hisense youtube problems, update your TV firmware first before troubleshooting app-specific issues.
Android TV offers flexibility but requires more active management than other platforms.
Two Update Channels:
System Updates (Hisense firmware):
Settings → Device Preferences → About → System Update
Google Play Services Updates:
These update automatically through Play Store
Critical for app compatibility
Manual Firmware Update:
Press Home or Settings
Navigate to Device Preferences → About
Select System Update
Choose Check for Updates
Install if available
App Updates:
Open Google Play Store
Go to My Apps
Update all apps, or select specific ones
Android TV Tips:
Ensure your Google account remains signed in. Some system updates require Play Services authentication.
After major updates, clearing app cache can resolve lingering issues. Go to Settings → Apps → See all apps → Select app → Clear cache.
Android TV models may show update notifications that persist until you install. These aren't malfunctions - just reminders.
Google TV's update process mirrors Android TV with minor interface differences due to the redesigned home screen.
Manual Update Path:
Click Profile icon (top right corner)
Select Settings
Navigate to System → About → System Update
Check for and install updates
Google TV Specifics:
The "For You" recommendations may suggest apps after updates. This is normal behavior, not malware.
Google TV prioritizes internet connection for personalization features. If updates fail, verify your WiFi connection is stable and your Google account is signed in.
Profile-based recommendations mean each user on shared TVs may see different content suggestions - but firmware updates apply to the entire TV regardless of which profile is active.
Amazon controls the Fire TV update schedule, which means less user control but generally seamless experiences.
Automatic Updates: Fire TV updates automatically when in standby mode and connected to WiFi. Amazon determines timing based on their rollout schedule.
Manual Check:
Navigate to Settings → My Fire TV → About
Select Check for Updates
If available, choose Install Update
Fire TV Considerations:
Amazon sometimes delays updates for specific regions or models to test stability. If friends with the same TV received an update you haven't seen, waiting is usually the only option.
Fire TV updates may require Amazon account verification. Ensure you're signed in with valid credentials.
App updates happen through the Fire TV App Store, separate from system firmware. To update apps: Settings → Applications → Appstore → Automatic Updates (enable if desired).
XClass and Xumo TVs offer the simplest update experience - there's essentially nothing to do.
Automatic-Only Updates: These platforms update automatically whenever connected to WiFi. There's no manual trigger available.
What If It's Not Updating?
If you suspect your XClass/Xumo TV hasn't updated:
Verify WiFi connection in Settings → Network
Power cycle the TV (unplug 60 seconds)
Leave TV in standby overnight
Check for version changes the next day
Limitations: You cannot force updates, schedule updates, or install updates via USB on these platforms. The trade-off for simplicity is reduced control.
Updates fail for predictable reasons. This section covers the most common problems and their solutions.
Before trying fixes randomly, identify your specific symptom:
No update found ("Your TV is up to date" when you know newer firmware exists)
Download fails or gets stuck
Installation fails partway through
TV behaves strangely after update
USB update not recognized
Each symptom points to different root causes.
Likely Causes:
Regional rollout delay (updates reach different regions on different schedules)
Model may no longer receive support
Server-side timing issues
Solutions:
First, wait 24-48 hours and try again. Hisense staggers rollouts to prevent server overload.
If waiting doesn't help, verify your TV model still receives updates. Models older than 5-6 years may reach end-of-support status.
Check your network connection. Some users report that switching from WiFi to Ethernet triggers update detection.
As a last resort, contact Hisense support and ask whether an update exists for your specific model and region.
Likely Causes:
Unstable internet connection
Server issues during download
Insufficient storage space
Solutions:
Restart your router and TV, then try again. This resolves most temporary network issues.
If using WiFi, try Ethernet instead. Wired connections are significantly more stable for large downloads.
Clear storage space by deleting unused apps. Go to Settings → Apps → select apps you don't use → Uninstall.
If downloads consistently fail at the same percentage, your TV's storage may have corruption. Try the USB update method instead.
This is perhaps the most anxiety-inducing situation. Your TV shows 95% and just... sits there.
Important: Don't panic. Many updates pause at certain percentages for verification steps. Wait at least 45 minutes before taking action.
If genuinely stuck (no progress after 45+ minutes and no disk activity sounds):
Unplug TV from power
Wait 60 seconds
Plug back in
Try USB update method
Updates stuck at 95% sometimes indicate the download completed but installation failed. USB recovery often bypasses whatever caused the original failure.
Your TV says it updated successfully, but issues remain - or new problems appeared.
Solutions:
Power cycle the TV (unplug 60 seconds) to clear residual cache.
Clear individual app caches: Settings → Apps → [Problem app] → Clear cache.
If apps crash or behave strangely, uninstall and reinstall them. This forces fresh installation with updated compatibility.
For serious issues, factory reset returns everything to default. Settings → System → Reset → Factory Reset. Note this erases all settings and installed apps.
If you're experiencing hisense apps not working even after updating, the issue may be app-specific rather than firmware-related. Similarly, if your TV exhibits unusual behavior like stop hisense turning on unexpectedly, check if any new features were enabled by the update.
When trying USB updates, you might encounter "invalid serial number" errors on Hisense's download page.
Solutions:
Double-check your serial number entry. Common mistakes include confusing 0 (zero) with O (letter), or misreading 1 with I.
The serial number is typically on a sticker on the back of your TV, not the model number. Serial numbers are longer and include more varied characters.
If the number is definitely correct but the site won't accept it, contact Hisense support directly. Some regional models use different databases that aren't accessible through the US website.
Your TV doesn't detect the firmware file on your USB drive.
Solutions:
Verify USB formatting. Must be FAT32 - not NTFS, not exFAT. Reformat if uncertain.
Confirm only the firmware file exists on the USB. No other files, no folders.
Check filename exactly matches what Hisense provided. Some TVs require specific filenames like "upgrade_loader.pkg" while others accept different names.
Try different USB ports if your TV has multiple. Some models only accept USB updates through specific ports.
Test with a different USB drive. Some drives aren't fully compatible, especially older or very large capacity drives.
Boot loops represent the scariest update failure - your TV stuck in an endless restart cycle. The good news? Most boot loops are recoverable without professional repair.
A boot loop occurs when your TV powers on, shows the Hisense logo (or a loading screen), then restarts before fully loading. This cycle repeats indefinitely.
Common Causes:
Update interrupted by power loss
Corrupted firmware file during installation
Hardware conflict with new firmware
Power surge during update process
Your TV might be entering a boot loop if:
Stuck on Hisense logo for extended periods
Restarts repeatedly without reaching home screen
Black screen with backlight on, then restart
"Android" or "Google" loading animation loops endlessly
Standard 60-second power cycles may not be enough for boot loop recovery.
Unplug TV from power completely
Wait 10 full minutes (not just one or two)
While unplugged, hold the power button on the TV (not remote) for 30 seconds
Release the button
Wait 30 more seconds
Plug TV back in
Attempt to power on normally
The extended time allows capacitors to fully discharge, clearing any stuck states in the TV's memory.
If power cycling fails, USB recovery becomes your best option.
Preparation:
Contact Hisense support to request emergency firmware for your model
Format USB drive as FAT32, completely empty
Copy firmware file to USB root directory
Recovery Process:
Ensure TV is completely OFF (not in boot loop)
Insert USB into the top USB port (if multiple ports exist)
Hold the POWER button on your remote
While holding, turn ON the TV using the physical power switch on the TV itself
Continue holding the remote power button until "Software updating" appears (may take 30-60 seconds)
Release and wait for completion (15-30 minutes)
If "Software updating" never appears, try holding different button combinations. Some models respond to Volume Down + Power held simultaneously during boot.
Some Hisense TVs have a physical reset button in a small hole on the back panel.
Locate the reset pinhole (check back and side panels)
Use a paperclip or toothpick
Hold for 20-30 seconds
TV should restart with factory defaults
This method works independently of firmware state, though it won't fix corrupted firmware - it just clears settings.
If all recovery methods fail, the problem may be:
Hardware damage from power surge during update
Mainboard failure unrelated to firmware
Physically corrupted storage chip
At this point, professional repair or replacement becomes necessary. Contact Hisense to verify warranty status - firmware update failures are sometimes covered even outside normal warranty periods.
Once recovered, prevent future boot loops:
Use surge protectors for your TV
Never unplug during active updates
Prefer USB updates over OTA for older TVs (more controllable)
Wait for community feedback before installing major updates on launch day
Updates completed? Here's how to verify everything worked correctly.
Navigate to Settings → About (exact path varies by OS)
Find "Software Version" or "Firmware Version"
Compare to the version you had before updating
Verify it matches the latest available version
If the number didn't change, the update may have failed silently. Try the update process again.
Run through basic operations to catch problems early:
Power Functions:
Turn TV off and on using remote
Test standby mode
Verify power button responsiveness
Remote Control:
All buttons functioning?
Volume control working?
Channel/input switching responsive?
Display:
Picture quality normal?
No flickering or artifacts?
Colors accurate?
If you notice picture quality changes, you may need to readjust your hisense audio settings and display preferences. Major updates occasionally reset custom configurations.
Open each streaming app you regularly use:
Netflix
YouTube
Disney+
Prime Video
Any others you use frequently
Verify they load, play content, and respond normally. If apps crash or show errors, try uninstalling and reinstalling them.
Verify HDMI connections still work:
Gaming consoles
Streaming devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV)
Soundbars
Blu-ray players
If a soundbar stopped working, check whether the update changed audio output settings. Our guide on hisense arc soundbar covers HDMI-ARC configuration if needed.
Minor issues (apps slow, slight glitches): Power cycle the TV and clear app cache. These usually resolve within a day or two as the system stabilizes.
Major issues (features not working, crashes): Factory reset restores default settings while keeping the new firmware. You'll lose custom configurations but often resolve incompatibility issues.
Critical issues (won't turn on, constant crashes): Contact Hisense support. If the update caused the problem, they may have specific recovery steps for your model.
Prevention beats troubleshooting every time. Follow these practices to ensure smooth updates going forward.
Check your internet stability. Run a speed test on another device. Updates require stable downloads - even brief disconnections can corrupt firmware.
Use Ethernet when possible. Wired connections are dramatically more reliable than WiFi for firmware downloads. If your TV is too far from the router, consider a powerline adapter.
Ensure adequate time. Don't start updates before leaving the house or going to bed if you can't leave the TV alone for 30+ minutes. Incomplete updates cause problems.
Note your current settings. Major updates occasionally reset picture and sound configurations. Take photos of your current settings screens for easy restoration.
Don't touch anything. Once an update starts, hands off. No remote buttons, no power cycling, no unplugging.
Ignore progress stalls. Updates often pause at certain percentages. Wait at least 45 minutes before assuming something's wrong.
Keep the room quiet. Listen for hard drive or processing sounds indicating the TV is still working even if the progress bar isn't moving.
Power cycle once. A fresh restart after updates clears temporary files and ensures clean operation.
Test thoroughly. Don't assume everything works. Spend 10 minutes checking apps, inputs, and settings.
Re-enter streaming credentials if needed. Some updates require signing back into apps.
Consider waiting if:
You have an important viewing event scheduled (game day, premiere, party)
Your TV currently works perfectly and you don't need new features
The update just released today (day-one updates sometimes have issues)
Community forums show widespread problems with the new version
Waiting a week after major updates lets others discover problems first. Unless you're experiencing issues that the update specifically addresses, patience often pays off.
Not all Hisense TVs are created equal. Support timelines, update frequency, and available methods vary significantly by model tier.
Hisense's flagship models receive the most attention:
Update Frequency: Often quarterly, sometimes more frequent for new releases Support Duration: Typically 5+ years of firmware support Update Methods: All three (automatic, manual OTA, USB) Common OS: Google TV on newer models, some Android TV
These TVs also receive the latest features first - HDR improvements, game mode enhancements, and new streaming app support typically debut on premium series.
For gamers, firmware updates frequently improve hisense gaming settings with reduced input lag and better VRR support on U8 and higher models.
Solid update support with slightly longer intervals:
Update Frequency: 2-4 times annually Support Duration: 3-5 years typical Update Methods: All three available Common OS: Mix of Google TV, Android TV, and VIDAA depending on region
Mid-range models balance features with value. They receive most premium features eventually, usually 3-6 months after flagship debut.
Basic support with less frequent updates:
Update Frequency: 1-2 times annually, sometimes less Support Duration: 2-4 years typical Update Methods: All three, though USB may be necessary more often Common OS: Often VIDAA for simplicity
Budget models prioritize stability over features. Updates focus on bug fixes and security patches rather than new capabilities.
Support varies significantly by original price tier:
Premium models from 2020 may still receive occasional updates
Mid-range 2020 models likely at end-of-support
Budget models from 2020 almost certainly unsupported
For older TVs no longer receiving updates, USB installation of the last available firmware remains possible. Contact Hisense support to obtain firmware files if needed.
The same model number may have different firmware in different countries:
US models often receive updates first
European models may run different software versions
Australian/Asian models sometimes have unique firmware
When contacting support or downloading firmware, specify your exact region. Installing firmware intended for a different region can cause serious problems.
Understanding hisense brand history Context: Hisense has evolved significantly as a manufacturer. Older TVs were built with different priorities than current models. If your TV is more than 5 years old, managing expectations about update support helps avoid frustration.
Check for updates every 2-3 months, or simply enable automatic updates for hands-off maintenance. Hisense typically releases 1-2 major firmware updates per year for most models, with additional smaller patches for bug fixes.
Automatic updates ensure you never miss critical security patches. If you prefer manual control, set a quarterly reminder to check for available updates.
Typically, no. Firmware updates preserve installed apps, login credentials, and custom settings in almost all cases.
However, major system upgrades occasionally reset picture and sound settings to defaults. This happens most often when updating across Android versions (like Android 10 to Android 11). Note your preferred settings before major updates as a precaution.
Generally, no. Hisense TVs do not support firmware rollback due to security and compatibility protections. Once updated, you cannot revert to previous versions through normal means.
If a new update causes serious problems, contact Hisense support. In rare cases, they may provide special rollback firmware - but this isn't guaranteed.
Most updates complete in 5-30 minutes depending on update size and your internet speed:
Small bug fix patches: 5-10 minutes
Medium updates: 10-20 minutes
Major system updates: 20-30 minutes
Do not turn off the TV during this process. Even if progress seems stalled, allow up to 45 minutes before assuming a problem.
Updates roll out gradually by region and model. Your specific TV might not receive a newly released update for several days or weeks after others.
Additionally, some firmware versions target specific model variants. An update for the 65" version might not apply to the 55" model even with similar model numbers. Ensure your TV has a stable internet connection and try checking again in 24-48 hours.
No. Using unofficial firmware can void your warranty, permanently brick your TV, and introduce security vulnerabilities or malware.
Only download firmware from official Hisense support channels. Third-party firmware sites often host outdated, corrupted, or even malicious files.
Yes. Several alternatives exist:
RemoteNOW app (VIDAA TVs): Control your TV from a smartphone
Roku app (Roku TVs): Full remote functionality on mobile
Google Home app (Google TV): Basic control and voice commands
Physical buttons: Most TVs have power and menu buttons on the panel
Some TVs also support HDMI-CEC, allowing compatible devices to send commands.
Firmware is the core system software controlling your TV's hardware and basic functions - the operating system layer.
Software update is a broader term that can include both firmware and individual app updates.
For Hisense TVs, "firmware update" and "software update" are often used interchangeably in menus and documentation. Both typically refer to the same system-level update process.
Updates frequently pause at 95% for final verification and installation steps. This can last 15-30 minutes - sometimes longer.
Wait at least 45 minutes before taking any action. If still stuck with no progress after that time:
Unplug the TV for 60 seconds
Plug back in and power on
Check if the update completed
If stuck again, try the USB update method
If automatic updates are enabled, Hisense TVs typically download and install updates during idle periods - often overnight when you're not watching.
For this to work:
Keep your TV connected to the internet
Leave TV in standby mode (don't fully power off)
Ensure automatic updates are enabled in settings
Hisense doesn't consistently publish detailed changelogs for consumer TVs. Your options:
Check Hisense USA Newsroom for major update announcements
Contact Hisense support directly with your model number
Monitor community forums like AVS Forum where users discuss update changes
Premium models occasionally receive changelog documentation, but budget models rarely do.
Yes. Apps and firmware update independently:
Roku TVs: Apps update through Roku Channel Store
Android/Google TV: Apps update via Google Play Store
Fire TV: Apps update through Fire TV App Store
VIDAA: Most apps update automatically; some through VIDAA App Store
Firmware updates handle the core system, while app updates come from their respective stores. You may need to update both if experiencing app-specific issues.
Firmware updates aren't glamorous, but they're essential for keeping your Hisense TV running smoothly. Regular updates ensure app compatibility, patch security vulnerabilities, and often improve picture and sound quality in ways you might not consciously notice but would definitely miss.
The three methods covered in this guide - automatic OTA, manual OTA, and USB - give you flexibility for virtually any situation. For most users, enabling automatic updates and forgetting about it works perfectly. When problems arise, manual OTA and USB methods provide fallback options.
Remember the key principles: never interrupt an update in progress, use stable internet connections, and keep realistic expectations about timing. If something goes wrong, power cycling solves most issues, and USB recovery handles the rest.
For persistent problems, Hisense support genuinely helps. Their contact options include phone, email, and online chat. Have your model and serial numbers ready when reaching out.
Bookmark the hisense update guide for future reference - firmware questions tend to recur whenever Hisense releases new updates. With this guide, you'll be prepared whether it's a routine update or emergency recovery situation.
Keep your Hisense TV updated, and it'll keep delivering the entertainment experience you bought it for.
For additional Hisense TV help, explore our complete troubleshooting guides covering setup, apps, picture settings, and connectivity issues.