Connecting YouTube to your Smart TV using yt.be/activate is usually fast and simple. However, sometimes the activation code may not work or expire too quickly, preventing successful sign-in.
Here are the most common reasons why your yt.be/activate code fails:
Expired activation code (valid only for a few minutes)
Wrong Google account used during activation
Weak or unstable internet connection
Outdated YouTube app or TV software
Corrupt cache or temporary app data
Browser issues, cookies, or ad-blockers
Open the YouTube app on your Smart TV
Go to Settings → Link with TV Code
A new 12-digit code will appear
Visit yt.be/activate and enter the new code immediately
Connect both TV and phone/PC to the same Wi-Fi network
Restart your router if needed
Avoid mobile data during activation
Make sure the Google account used on yt.be/activate matches the account on your TV
Using a different account can block pairing
Go to TV Settings → Apps → YouTube → Storage
Tap Clear Cache (or Clear Data if needed)
Reopen YouTube and generate a new code
Open your TV’s App Store (Play Store / LG Content Store / Samsung Store)
Update the YouTube app
Check System Update and install latest TV firmware
Turn off VPN or proxy temporarily
Disable ad-blocker extensions in your browser
Refresh yt.be/activate and try again
Use Chrome, Edge, or Safari
Open Incognito / Private Mode
Try activating from a mobile browser instead of desktop
Turn off the TV
Unplug it for 2–3 minutes
Plug it back in and restart
Open YouTube and retry activation