Your Roku remote is not working There could be a variety of problems that cause your Roku remote to not work, some simple and others more complicated.
This article will help you to troubleshoot the problem with your Roku remote and get it working again.
1. Check Your Roku Remote Batteries
Let’s start with the simplest explanation. Are you certain that your battery isn’t running low? Slowly decreasing performance can be a sign that your power supply is failing.
Some Roku remotes require two AAA batteries, while others need two AA batteries. To verify, check the sticker on your remote. You can access the batteries from the back of the device by sliding the panel.
2. How to pair a Roku Remote
A Roku remote that isn’t working can also be caused by the control not being paired with the box in which it was supposed to work.
The possibility of an unexpected unpairing could be caused by system updates, low power, changing WiFi networks, using the device in conjunction with another Roku box or simple technical glitches.
It is very easy to pair a Roku remote and a Roku box, streaming stick or streaming stick. Follow these steps:
- Remove your Roku box’s power supply.
- Wait for 10 seconds, then reconnect the box and wait for the Homepage page load.
- Find the pairing button on the remote. You will find it on the back of your device, or in the battery compartment.
- Hold the button down for five second or until the Roku remote blinks.
Some older Roku models have an IR pointer that can be used instead of your Wi-Fi connection. Check that there is no obstruction to the remote or box/TV if your IR Roku remote isn’t working. You should also ensure that the Roku box is in your line of sight from the remote.
3. Reset Your Roku Remote
Resetting Roku remotes can be done by following a sequence during the stick’s or box’s boot process.
Follow these steps to reset your Roku remote.
- Take out the batteries from your Roku remote.
- If your Roku remote is still working, you can remove the power supply.
- After waiting 10 seconds, reconnect the Roku box to power.
- Wait for the Homepage screen to load.
- Replace the batteries in your Roku remote.
If your Roku TV remote doesn’t work anymore, we have another tip.
4. Verify for HDMI Interference
Roku acknowledges in its literature that some remotes of its models can be affected by interference from nearby HDMI cables. This problem is particularly prevalent with Roku streaming sticks that connect directly to your TV’s HDMI port.
An HDMI cable extender is the best solution. This allows your streaming stick to be placed further away from the TV’s HDMI port.
Any HDMI extender that you already have can be used. Roku will send you a short extension cable if you don’t have one. You can claim your cable by filling out the form on Roku’s website.
5. Verify Your Wi-Fi Connection
If you have tried all of the Roku remote troubleshooting suggestions and still are not having success, it could be your Wi-Fi network.
Roku remotes don’t require an internet connection to connect to your box. However, they do need to be connected to a local network. The remote won’t work if your local network goes down.
You might consider looking into router settings if you have sufficient technical knowledge. It could be that something has happened that is causing the remote to become disconnected.
6. The Official Roku Remote App
Even though it’s not ideal to use your smartphone as a Roku Remote, there is an official Roku Remote app that you can download on both Android or iOS. It is a temporary fix.
Before opening the app, make sure it is connected to the same Wi Fi network as your Roku streaming device.
The Discovery screen will appear as soon as the app loads. Give the process a few moments and your Roku box should be listed. To make the connection, tap on the name.
The Roku app can be used to control Roku TV via remote. There are many other cool features you will find worth your time.
You have access to free TV shows and movies via The Roku Channel. Additionally, you can use your phone’s headphone connection to listen to private music, input your voice, and cast content from your phone to the TV.
7. Troubleshooting the Roku App
There are two possible reasons why your Roku box is not showing up in your phone’s app:
- Network Access Check that your Roku box is not blocking its network access. To check, go to Settings>>>>> System > Advanced System Settings> Control by Mobile Apps> Network Access. Make sure you select either the Permissive or Default options.
- VPN: The Roku remote app won’t work if your Roku box or your phone are connected to a VPN.
Unfortunately, if your Roku Remote is still not functioning after all these checks, you might need to buy a new Roku Remote.
8. For your Roku, replace the remote
Amazon will replace any remote for a mere few dollars.
Before you purchase, make sure your Roku box and streaming stick are supported by the remote.
The Roku Remote is Powerful
These tips should help you get your Roku remote back to work. You don’t have to search for remotes every time you use your Roku remote. It can control many devices, including your soundbar.
