How to Fix Roku TV Remote not Working
Roku is a popular streaming device for streaming media content on TV. Apart from that, RokuOS is also built-in on several TV models like Hisense, TCL, Philips, and Sharp. The remote is very vital as it is needed to control the device or TV. If the Roku TV remote is not working properly, it would be difficult to access the device further. We should also be aware of the reason for the issue and have the basic knowledge of how to fix those issues.
How to Fix Roku TV Remote not Working
As we know, different reasons can stop the device from functioning normally. So here are the basic checklist that every Roku TV user must be aware of. It would help them identify the issues in the future by saving a lot of time and effort.
Check Batteries on Roku TV Remote
Sometimes Roku TV remote may not function because of the dead batteries. A weak or dead battery can affect the performance of the remote or even stop working. A few Roku TV remote runs on an AA battery and some on an AAA battery. The first thing to do in this situation is to check whether the battery is fixed properly. If the remote is still not responsive, try replacing the battery. At times, there can be a chemical leak in the battery. In that case, clean the slot with a cotton swab or toothbrush and isopropyl alcohol before replacing the battery.
Check for HDMI Interface
HDMI interference is the commonly reported issue that can occur due to the nearby HDMI cables. This issue is prevalent in the Roku streaming stick as it would be connected directly to the TV’s HDMI port. Roku has provided all Roku TV consumers with a free HDMI extender to address this issue. To claim yours, all you have to do is fill out a form on the Roku Website.
Check your Network Connection
Even the Wi-Fi connection can affect the Roku TV remote’s performance. However, the Roku remote does not require a Wi-Fi connection to pair up with the Roku Device. But, the device would require a stable network to receive the signal from the remote and make the necessary operation. So, check whether the internet connection is stable on some other device and run the speed test to know if the issue is due to unstable internet. If the issue is with the network, check the router settings or reach out to the ISP and fix the issue.
Power Cycling Roku TV and Remote
The power cycle might help the remote to work properly, giving the system a soft reset.
[1]. Turn OFF the Roku TV and unplug it from the power supply. Let the device rest for 5-10 minutes.
[2]. Once the device is completely discharged, plug it back into the TV and turn on the device.
Power Draining the remote can also help fix the issue.
[1] Remove the battery from your Roku remote.
[2] Now, hold the down button for 10-30 sec.
[3] Put the batteries back into the slot.
Now, try using the remote with your Roku TV and check whether it is working.
Unpair and Pair the Roku Remote
Before we show you how to pair, we will have to explain to you about 2 different types of Roku remotes.
- Standard IR remote.
- Enhanced Remote( Point Anywhere remote)
As mentioned in the name, the Standard remote works on the Infrared Rays technology. It means that it does not need to be paired.
Another one is Enhanced Roku Remote or Point anywhere remote. This remote works in the Wi-Fi network technology. It has to be paired with the Roku TV device.
Sometimes the Roku TV might simply get unpaired due to some glitches. Follow the steps mentioned to pair your Roku TV remote back.
[1] Remove the Roku TV from the power supply and also the batteries from the remote.
[2] Wait for 10 seconds before plugging it back.
[3] Turn on your Roku TV and wait for the home screen to appear. Meanwhile, put the batteries back into the remote.
[4] Now, locate the pairing button usually found near the Battery Compartment.
[5] Press the button for a few seconds or until the remote starts blinking.
[6]. By doing so, the remote pairing process is initiated and will be done in a few minutes. However, we will also receive a note on the screen stating that the pairing was completed.
Resetting your Roku Remote
[1] Take out the batteries from your Roku TV remote and also remove the Roku TV device from the power supply.
[2] Alternatively, you can do a System Restart by going to Settings > System > System Restart > Restart on the remote.
[3] Wait for 15 seconds, and reconnect the Roku TV to the power supply.
[4] Let the Home Screen load on the TV
[5] Put the batteries back into the Roku remote and check if the remote is working fine.
Use Official Roku Remote App
If the Roku TV remote not working even after trying all these troubleshooting methods, you have two options. One is to buy a replacement remote; another is to use Roku TV remote App.
Roku Remote App is a software application that is an alternative to the regular TV remote, and it helps us control the device at ease. The application can do all the tasks that a Roku Remote can and makes things easier, like typing in text search.
How to Setup Roku Remote App
The Roku TV Remote App is available on both Android and iOS. For this process, both the Roku TV and your Phone should be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
[1] Launch the App and Sign In to your Roku account.
[2] Tap on Devices in the bottom panel.
[3] Select your Roku TV from the Available Devices list.
[4] Grant the permissions that the Application might be required to pair.
[5] Now tap on Remote below the name of your device.
The application will now show an interface of a Roku remote with all the features like the Private LIstening feature of the Roku remote.
Trouble Shooting methods for Roku Remote App
Here are some fixes in case your Roku remote app is not working properly.
[1]. Network Access. Ensure that the Roku TV device is connected to the network during the process. To fix the issue, go to Settings > System > Advanced System Settings > Control By Mobile Apps > Network Access. Select either Default or Permissive.
[2] VPN: If you are connected to a VPN service, disconnect it immediately. This is to be done because the application won’t work if VPN is turned on on your Smartphone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Standard IR remote has about 3 feet of range, and the Enhanced Roku remote has a theoretical range of 50 m radii.
The Roku remote would be able to pair with most of the Roku TV devices, except for the Streaming Stick.
Replacement remote controls are available from $15 to $30 on the Roku website. Check that before purchasing one, as the website indicates which remotes are compatible with certain models. However, the replacement remotes are not free of cost, even if it is within the warranty period.
Look for the little reset button on the back of your TV, close to the HDMI, audio, and antenna ports. Press and hold the reset button for at least 20 seconds using a straightened paperclip (or an equivalent object). Your Roku TV will resume shortly and show the Recovery Mode interface.
