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Fix an unresponsive Apple TV remote quickly
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Is your Apple TV remote not responding? This can happen if the remote is out of battery or loses sync with your TV. Whether you're using 1st generation, 2nd generation, or newer, you can easily reset and fix your remote. Here's what to do if your Apple TV remote is not working.

Fixing an Apple TV Remote

If you have an Apple Remote (aluminum), replace the coin battery. For newer devices, charge the remote with the proper cable for at least 30 minutes. To reset your remote, press and hold the Control Center and Volume Down buttons for at least five seconds.

3

Restart the remote.

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  1. You can restart your Apple TV remote by pressing a combination of keys. Make sure to try this method after charging your remote first. Do the following:
    • Press and hold the Control Center button (monitor) and Volume Down (-) button.
    • Release the buttons after 5 seconds, or if the status light restarts.
    • Wait for a Connected notification to appear on your TV.
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5

Use the Apple TV remote on your iPhone.

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  1. When your Apple TV remote isn't working, you can use your iPhone to control your Apple TV. To open the Apple TV:
    • Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (for iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom (for iPhones with Touch ID).
    • Tap the remote control icon and select your Apple TV from the list.
    • If the remote icon isn't there, you'll need to add it to Control Center in Settings > Control Center.[2]
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About This Article

Stan Kats
Reviewed by:
Professional Technologist
This article was reviewed by Stan Kats and by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly. Stan Kats is a Professional Technologist and the COO and Chief Technologist for The STG IT Consulting Group in West Hollywood, California. Stan provides comprehensive technology solutions to businesses through managed IT services, and for individuals through his consumer service business, Stan's Tech Garage. Stan holds a BA in International Relations from The University of Southern California. He began his career working in the Fortune 500 IT world. Stan founded his companies to offer an enterprise-level of expertise for small businesses and individuals.
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Updated: July 26, 2024
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