Samsung Smart TVs are popular for their excellent build quality, sharp displays, and seamless access to streaming apps like Hulu. However, just like any technology, apps sometimes need updates to fix bugs, improve performance, or add exciting new features. If your Hulu app isn’t running as smoothly as you’d expect, updating it might solve the problem.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to update Hulu on a Samsung TV, whether automatically, manually, or even using alternative methods if necessary.
1. Checking Auto Update Settings for Hulu on Samsung TV:
One of the easiest ways to ensure Hulu stays updated is by enabling the Auto Update feature. Samsung Smart TVs are designed to automatically update apps in the background when this setting is activated.
To check if Auto Update is enabled:
- Press the Home button on your Samsung remote.
- Navigate to Apps.
- Click on the Settings icon (usually a gear symbol).
- Locate and toggle Auto Update to “On”.
When Auto Update is active, Hulu and other apps like Netflix and YouTube will automatically get the latest updates without you having to lift a finger. It’s a simple step that ensures your TV apps are always performing at their best. Regular updates also keep you protected with the latest security patches from app developers.
2. How to Manually Update Hulu on Samsung Smart TV?
Sometimes Auto Update might fail or lag behind. In that case, you can manually update the Hulu app.
Here’s how?
- Press the Home button on the remote.
- Go to Apps > My Apps.
- Find the Hulu app.
- If an update is available, you’ll see an Update option.
- Select Update and let the installation complete.
If you don’t see the Update option directly, you can also:
- Press Menu on the remote.
- Navigate to Support > Software Update > Update Now.
This updates the entire Samsung TV software, which may also bring app improvements. Manual updates ensure you’re not missing out on the latest Hulu features, even when Auto Update skips a beat.
3. Reinstalling the Hulu App If Updating Fails:
If updating doesn’t work or the app continues to crash, reinstalling Hulu could be your next step. Reinstallation ensures that you remove any corrupted files and get a fresh, clean version.
Steps to reinstall Hulu:
- Press Home > Apps > Settings.
- Find Hulu, select it, and click Delete.
- Once deleted, go back to the Apps Store.
- Search for Hulu and click Install.
Reinstalling not only solves persistent glitches but also ensures that you have the newest version by default. This process may take a few minutes, but it’s worth it to get Hulu running smoothly again.
4. Alternative Method: Updating Hulu via APK on Samsung Smart TV
In rare cases where Hulu is not updating via the TV’s App Store (especially for older Samsung TV models), installing Hulu through an APK file can be an option. Here’s a safe method:
- On your PC or Laptop, open a browser like Chrome or Firefox.
- Search for Hulu APK for Smart TV on a trusted site like APKPure.
- Download the APK file.
- Transfer it onto a USB drive.
- Insert the USB into your Samsung TV.
- Go to File Manager > Find APK file > Install.
- Allow installation from Unknown Sources if prompted.
Remember, APK installations should be done carefully. Only download from trusted sources to avoid malware. This method is a workaround but can help when traditional updates fail or Hulu isn’t listed on the App Store.
5. What to Do If Hulu Still Doesn’t Work After Updating??
Updating doesn’t always guarantee the app will run flawlessly, especially if there are issues with the TV firmware itself. If Hulu still doesn’t work:
- Restart your Samsung TV by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
- Reset the Smart Hub via Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Reset Smart Hub.
- Update your Samsung TV’s Firmware to the latest version.
- Check Internet Connection (Hulu needs a stable, fast internet speed).
- Contact Hulu Support for additional help if issues persist.
Sometimes, external factors like outdated firmware, internet lags, or server outages can affect Hulu even when the app is updated. Going through these steps ensures you’ve covered all possible angles.
6. Steps to Update Hulu on Samsung TV:
If you’re looking for a straightforward, step-by-step way to update Hulu on your Samsung Smart TV, follow these simple instructions. These manual steps help ensure you’re using the latest version of Hulu for the best experience.
Steps to Update Hulu:
- Step 1: Turn on your Samsung Smart TV and grab the remote.
- Step 2: Press the Home button and go to the Smart Hub.
- Step 3: Search for the Hulu app within the Smart Hub.
- Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to check for and initiate the update.
- Step 5: Once the update is installed, open the latest version of Hulu and start streaming your favorite shows.
If you face trouble updating directly:
- Step 4 (Alternative): Download the updated Hulu app manually.
- Step 5: Click OK when prompted.
- Step 7: Wait until the download process is fully completed.
- Step 8: Locate the Downloaded file in your Smart TV’s file manager.
- Step 9: Enable Unknown Sources in your TV’s security settings.
- Step 10: Confirm allowing installation from unknown sources.
- Step 11: Click on Install.
- Step 12: Avoid closing the app or interrupting the installation.
- Step 13: After completion, click Open and enjoy Hulu’s latest version.
This method ensures that even if your app store method fails, you still have another way to keep Hulu updated and fully functional.
7. How to Enable Installation from Unknown Sources on Samsung TV?
Sometimes, updating Hulu manually or through APK files requires allowing installations from unknown sources. Without enabling this option, your TV will block any app that isn’t from the official Samsung store.
Here’s how you can enable it?
- Open the Settings menu on your Samsung Smart TV.
- Navigate to Personal or General > Security.
- Find the option Unknown Sources.
- Toggle it to Allow.
Once this setting is enabled, you can install APK files like the Hulu update without any security warnings. However, make sure you only install APKs from trusted websites to avoid malware. This method is very useful especially for older Samsung models where app updates might not be available through the Smart Hub.
8. Common Problems When Updating Hulu on Samsung TV:
Even after trying to update, users sometimes face issues. Here’s a quick look at common problems and solutions:
- Hulu not updating: Try restarting the TV, reconnecting Wi-Fi, or updating the TV’s firmware manually.
- App crashes after update: Uninstall Hulu completely and reinstall it fresh from the Samsung App Store.
- Can’t find Hulu in Smart Hub: Your TV model might be outdated. Try using the APK installation method via USB.
- Update button missing: This usually means Hulu is already up-to-date. Try opening the app to check.
Addressing these common errors makes sure you don’t get stuck halfway through the update process. Keeping your TV’s software and apps updated not only improves app performance but also boosts the overall TV speed and security.
Conclusion:
Keeping the Hulu app updated on your Samsung Smart TV is essential for the best viewing experience. Whether you rely on Auto Update, prefer manual updates, or explore APK installation methods, each option ensures you have access to Hulu’s newest features and bug fixes. Don’t let an outdated app interrupt your binge-watching sessions. A few simple steps can make all the difference in maintaining a smooth, enjoyable Hulu experience on your Samsung TV.
FAQs:
You don’t need to manually update it often if Auto Update is turned on. However, it’s good to check once a month for any missed updates.
Auto Update might be turned off, or your TV’s firmware might need an update first. Double-check both the app settings and the TV software.
Yes, but older models might require using a USB drive and APK method if Hulu is not available on the App Store anymore.
Deleting and reinstalling the Hulu app will remove local data like login credentials, but your watch history and preferences are saved in your Hulu account.
It’s generally safe if you download the APK from trusted sources like APKPure. Always verify the website and avoid suspicious downloads.