When you buy a Roku device, you'll likely get a designated remote that will help you navigate and navigate your Roku player. However, this also requires a separate remote to turn on your TV and adjust the volume.
This doesn't have to be the case, however. You can configure your Roku Enhanced Remote to also work with your TV, but with reduced functionality. This article explains how a Roku remote can work with most brands of TVs.
Can you configure the Roku remote to control the TV?
The 2022 release of Roku Streaming Stick+ and Roku Ultra introduced a new Roku remote that you can set up to control your TV. These upgraded remotes contain infrared and wireless technologies that allow you to control both your Roku player and certain functions of your TV.
With the improved Roku remote, you can control your TV's power and adjust its volume, but you may not be able to change channels and use other functions. Some television brands allow you to do this, but they are in the minority.
Also, you cannot use your Roku remote to control devices connected to your TV, such as an audio and video receiver, soundbar, DVD player, etc.
Things to know before setting up your remote
There are a few things to keep in mind before you start setting up your remote.
First of all, know that you can configure your remote control both during the configuration of your Roku device but also after having finished everything. So if you've already installed Roku on your TV, there's nothing to worry about — this article will cover both methods.
If you choose to set up both Roku and the enhanced remote, the Roku player will try to scan and recognize your TV brand. Sometimes this is not possible, so you will have to manually enter your TV brand. Therefore, you should gather the necessary information before proceeding with the installation.
Ultimately, you still need to connect your Roku directly to the TV when you want to set up the remote. This is necessary for the Roku player to recognize your TV brand (and configure the remote accordingly). Some people connect Roku to their surround system instead of the TV – that's fine, but not during setup. When installing the remote, plug the Roku directly into the TV. Once finished, you can readjust the cords.
Setting up your remote during Roku setup
The first time you decide to set up your Roku player, you'll need to follow a series of on-screen instructions before you see the Check settings remotely filter. This is when you will configure the remote to access your TV.
First, turn up the volume on your TV so you can hear it. Point your Roku remote directly at the TV as you follow the instructions. Then follow these steps:
- Select Check settings remotely to go to the next screen.
- Select Yes if you hear the music playing. If you can't hear the music, use your TV remote to turn up the volume.
- Select Yes if the music stops on the next screen. This is when the system recognizes the brand of your TV and uses the specific set of remote control codes to try to mute the sound.
Notes: If the music doesn't stop, it means Roku didn't automatically recognize the brand. Selection No will take you to another screen where you need to go Enter TV brand and use the buttons on your remote to enter the brand name (it should appear on the list). Follow the onscreen instructions to set up your remote.
- Select Okay to finish programming the remote. Depending on the model of your television, your remote control will have more or less functions.
Setting up your remote after installing Roku
You can configure your Roku remote after the initial setup by accessing the "Settings" menu on the Roku player. Make sure your Roku is connected directly to the TV and follow these steps:
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote, navigate to Parameters, and click Okay.
- Then choose Remote controls and devices.
- Go to Set up the remote control for TV control.
- Hit Start.
Roku will automatically start the setup process to connect your TV and remote. Just follow the on-screen instructions and you should be able to set up your remote.
Pair your remote and TV
If you have a newer Roku remote and TV, you can pair them quickly.
- Open the battery cover of your Roku remote and press and hold the Twinning for about five seconds, the lights will begin to flash on the remote.
Don't Give Up Your TV Remote Completely
While your Roku Enhanced Remote can control some aspects of your TV, you still need to keep your regular TV remote somewhere nearby.
You may need it to access certain TV menus that are only available with the designated TV remote. This may include the settings menu or the menu to switch between the different inputs (HDMI, coaxial, etc.).
However, for those who stream their content specifically from Roku, using a single remote can be extremely convenient. Would you agree with that? Leave a comment in the section below.
