
Google TV Remote Not Working | Reasons and DIY Fixes
Though the Google TV remote quality is impressive, the remote functions might not work as expected at some point. So, it is necessary to know the troubleshooting methods to fix the Google TV remote not working issue. Before trying advanced fixes, try the basic methods like replacing the batteries, clearing the obstructions, and re-pairing the remote. If the Google TV remote is physically damaged, you can buy a new replacement remote or universal remote on Amazon.
In this article, you will learn the troubleshooting methods to fix the Google TV remote not working problem.
Why is My Google TV Remote Not Working
If the Chromecast with Google TV remote is not working, it is due to the following reasons.
SCENARIO | REASONS |
---|---|
1 | If the Google TV remote batteries are weak or running out of charge |
2 | Due to unknown errors, the remote may get unpaired from the TV |
3 | Because of outdated firmware, Google TV won’t respond to remote commands |
4 | If you forget to update the Google TV remote to the latest version |
5 | Due to software bugs and glitches, the remote may be unresponsive |
Fixes For Google TV Remote Not Working
The following workarounds will help you resolve the Google TV remote not working issue in less time.
Check Remote Batteries
Google TV Remote will not work if its batteries are completely drained. First, remove the old batteries from the remote compartment. After a minute, insert the new batteries into the remote. Make sure to insert it properly based on its positive and negative polarities. It is recommended to use branded batteries like Duracell, Panasonic, or Energizer for long-lasting.

Reset Google TV Remote
If the Chromecast Voice Remote is not working, you can reset the Google TV remote to make it function.
1. Remove the batteries from the Chromecast voice remote.
2. Press and hold the Home key on your remote.
3. Insert the batteries into the remote while holding the Home key.
4. Hold the Home button until the solid LED light blinks.
5. Finally, release the Home button and check if this has solved the issue.
Enable Remote Buttons
The Google TV remote won’t control the TV until you configure the remote buttons in the Settings. If you don’t know how to do it, follow the below instructions.
1. Go to Settings on your Google TV.
2. Choose Remotes and accessories from the list.

3. Further, select the Set up remote buttons option.
4. Tap Add device → select TV.
5. Now, select your TV brand from the list of devices.
6. Finally, enable the volume, power, and input buttons by selecting them individually.
That’s it. Now, you can control the Sony, Philips, or any other Google TV using the Chromecast Voice Remote.
Check HDMI Mode
Google TV comprises of different HDMI ports. Ensure that you have selected the appropriate input. Otherwise, the Google TV remote won’t control the device. For instance, if you connect a Firestick to HDMI port 2, you must change the input on your Google TV to HDMI 2. Then, only you can access the Firestick on your Google TV with the remote.
Restart Google TV
Restart Google TV to close all the apps running in the background. This will eliminate the temporary glitches caused by apps.
1. Click the profile icon on the Google TV home screen and tap Settings.
2. Further, click on System and tap Restart.

Update Google TV
You should keep your Google TV software up-to-date to avoid the remote not working issues.
1. Open Settings on your Google TV.
2. Scroll down and select the System option.
3. After that, click About → Check for Software Update.

4. If there is an update, it will prompt you to install. Later, try controlling the TV using the remote to check if the issue is fixed.
Update Google TV Remote
1. Open Settings on your Google TV.
2. Scroll down and select Remotes & Accessories.
3. Below the Chromecast Voice Remote option, it will notify if an update is available.
4. After that, click on Remote update → Continue.
5. It will take a while to finish the update.

Unpair and Pair Google TV Remote
If the Google TV remote is not working after updating, you need to unpair and re-pair the Google TV remote.
1. Go to Settings on your Google TV.
2. Select Remote & Accessories from the list.
3. Next, select your Chromecast voice remote.
4. Click Forget.
5. Remove the batteries and reinsert them into the Google TV remote.
6. Press and hold the Back and Home buttons together until you see the LED light at the bottom of your remote.

7. Press the Home button to pair your remote.
Contact Google TV Support
If none of these methods fix the Google TV remote not working issue, visit the Chromecast support website. Those who have Google TV-powered Smart TVs should contact the customer service of the respective brand. Once you visit the website, click the Contact Us section and enter the necessary details to request a call back from technical support. They will guide you to fix the Google TV voice remote not working issue.
Use Google TV Remote App
You can even use your Android or iOS smartphone as a remote using the Google TV remote app. Download this app for free from the Play Store or App Store. After that, connect your smartphone and the TV to the same WiFi network.
1. Switch on your Google TV device.
2. Launch the Google TV app on your smartphone.
3. Click the TV Remote icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.
4. Now, select your device name from the available devices.
5. A code will be displayed on the TV screen. Enter that code on your smartphone.

6. Lastly, click on Pair.
You can now use the Google TV app as a remote controller. If the Google TV remote app is not working, check whether the TV and phone are connected to the same WiFi network.
Buy a Universal Remote
If the Google TV remote has been broken or lost, purchase a universal remote for Google TV instead of buying an original remote for a high price. You can control multiple devices with a universal remote by programming it with a remote code. Therefore, you should know the Google TV remote codes to program a universal remote to your TV.

FAQ
You should reset the Google TV remote to fix the remote not pairing issue.
A solid white light on the Google TV remote indicates that it requires a firmware update.
To fix this, go to Settings → Remote & Accessories → Set up remote buttons → Volume Control → Select Chromecast Volume. Now, you can control the volume of a Chromecast.
You can follow the same troubleshooting methods to fix the Philips Google TV remote not working issue.
Install and use the Google Chromecast remote app on your smartphone and use it to control the Chromecast.