According to Apple's release notes, the update addresses an issue affecting a "small number" of units to have to connect to iTunes.
Software update: Addresses an issue that required a small number of Apple TV units to be connected to iTunes in order to complete the update.
The previous 4.4 software update had added a number of new features, including AirPlay video mirroring, Photo Stream support, movie trailers, and video content from the National Hockey League and The Wall Street Journal.Source http://www.macrumors.com/2011/10/18/apple-issues-bug-fix-with-apple-tv-4-4-1-software-update/