Streaming app opens to a black screen

Symptoms

• App icon opens but shows only black
• Loading spinner appears then goes black
• Audio may play with no picture inside the app
• Other apps on the same device work fine

Likely causes

• CommonHDMI signal handshake failure between devicesSome apps trigger a resolution change that the TV briefly can't display.
• CommonApp cache or data corruptedA partial update or crash can leave the app in a broken state.
• PossibleOutdated app or device softwareCompatibility issues arise when the app updates but the device firmware hasn't.
• PossibleHDCP copy-protection mismatchSome cables, splitters, or older TVs fail the copyright handshake required for protected content.
• Less commonTV input or resolution setting conflictA manually forced resolution can be incompatible with the app's video output.

What to do

1. Exit the app fully and reopen it; on some devices this requires pressing a home button, not just back.
2. Restart the streaming device and the TV together, unplugging both for 30 seconds.
3. Clear the app's cache/data through the device's app settings menu.
4. Try a different HDMI port on the TV, and avoid HDMI splitters or switches if you're using one.
5. Check for and install any pending software updates on both the TV and streaming device.
6. Reset the TV's picture/resolution settings to automatic if they've been manually changed.
7. Uninstall and reinstall the app if the black screen persists.

When to call a pro

If the black screen happens on every app and every input, the TV's HDMI board may need professional repair.

Safety