No doubt that Apple TV is expensive, but Apple TV streams the content in HD or 4K. Also, it is portable, which means you can carry it wherever you want. The device consists of different versions, with classy and premium-looking remotes which are based on Siri-based voice control.

Apple TV users have reported that their Apple TV remote is not working as it supposes to be. Here are some possible fixes to resolve the Apple TV remote not working issue. Without further ado, let’s get started.

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Try To Charge The Remote

Apple TV remotes work only if there’s sufficient battery is left. Make sure to charge the remote using Lightning to USB cable connected to a wall charger instead of computer ports.

Charge the remote at least for 30 minutes, and try if this works.

Clean the remote

If the keys on the remote are not working, clean the remote using Q-tip and isopropyl alcohol. Also, make sure to clean the edges of the remote’s buttons. After cleaning, use a microfiber cloth to go over the surface of the remote.

If the buttons on the remote are stuck and unable to press smoothly, use a can of compressed air to resolve the issue. Alternately, you can use a toothbrush and gently brush the buttons.

Access remote without obstacle and keep in range

Sometimes it happens that, there’s an obstacle between remote and Apple TV. So try to access the remote by removing that obstacle that prevents you from doing the work.

Mind you, the Apple remote comes with an IR sensor, which means the sensor needs the line of sight to be clear in order to control the TV. Also, try to be under the range as the remote depends on the Bluetooth connection with Apple TV.

Try to reset the remote and Apple TV Connection

• Unplug the Apple TV from the power socket, leave the device as it is for one minute or two, then plug back in.
• Now, try to access the remote.
• If you prefer to use Siri Remote, press the Menu and Volume Up buttons simultaneously to reset and go back into pairing mode.

Pair your remote with Apple TV

For Siri remote: Point the remote 3 inches away from Apple TV, press and hold Menu and Volume Up buttons for 3-5 seconds, place remote on top of Apple TV to pair.

For Aluminium or White remote: Link the mote to TV, hold Menu and Right buttons for 3-6 seconds. look for a link symbol just above the icon for the remote, on the TV screen. If Apple Tv flashes lights three-time, assume that the remote is paired with the TV.

What if nothing works even light flashes on Apple TV

• Try replacing the battery of the remote, if you see an exclamation mark in a triangle on the TV screen.
• Restart your Apple TV by holding the Menu and Down buttons.
• If you’re using Siri, press the Menu and Volume Up buttons to reset the remote and go back into pairing mode.
• Power cycle your Apple TV.
• Pair Apple TV with a TV remote, visit remote settings and look to pair with an Apple TV remote.
• You can also use a USB-C cable to connect Apple TV to the computer and perform Reset using iTunes.

Siri remote issues

If you’re facing issues with calibrating speed on Siri remote. Visit Settings > Remotes and Devices > Touch Surface Tracking, change it accordingly.

You can also use onscreen keyboard, swipe straight to the end of alphabet, cursor will fly across if you swipe little harder. If nothing is working out, for meanwhile you can use your iPhone/iPad, as a remote to access Apple TV.

Using iPhone/iPad as a remote to access Apple TV

If you’re using your iPhone/iPad as a remote to access Apple TV, make sure that your device and Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi.

Step 1: Connect iPhone/iPad to home Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Ensure to connect your Apple over the same Wi-Fi network in order access your iPhone/iPad as remote.

Step 3: On Apple TV, visit Settings > General > Remote and Devoce > Remote App.

Step 4: Enter Apple ID and password when asked.

Step 5: Open Remote App on your iOS device, visit Settings and select Apple TV.

Step 6: It will sometimes pair, and you’re you are good to use the iOS device as a remote to control Apple TV.

Using Apple TV Remote app on iDevices

If you’re using iOS 12 and above and have Apple TV 4th generation and above. You will get to see the Apple TV remote app in Control Center. the app works exactly like the Apple TV remote.

Set-up Apple TV remote for iOS 11 and below

Step 1: Make sure to have latest firmware on Apple TV and your iDevice.

Step 2: Downloaded the Apple TV remote from app store.

Step 3: Ensure to connect Apple TV and your device over the same Wi-Fi, and open the app.

Step 4: Tap Add Apple TV, and select your Apple TV.

Step 5: Wait for 4 digit code to appear on your Apple TV, enter the code on the iDevice, to access the Apple Tv via iDevice.

Step 6: Now, on iDevice visit Settings > Control Centre > Customize Controls and tap on Plus Sign (+) located next to the Apple TV remote.

Step 7: Visit Control Centre on your iDevice and tap the Apple TV icon, and select your Apple TV.

Step 8: Enter the code and you’re good to go.

What if Nothing Works?

If the solutions mentioned above won’t work for you, then it’s time to contact Apple Support or Genius Bar. Have them look at your issue.