ManyApple TVowners will only ever need theSiriRemote that comes bundled with the streaming set-top. The latest version of the Remote not only has a sturdy aluminum shell to protect it, but aUSB-C portinstead of Lightning, making it more convenient to recharge. Any remote can still get lost or break though, and in some circumstances, it’s possible to use multiple remotes with an Apple TV – as long as the second isn’t another Siri Remote. Read on.
For the purposes of this article, we’re assuming you have an Apple TV from 2015 or later, and that you’ve updated to at least tvOS 17.
To verify you’re using the latest version of tvOS, go toSettings -> System -> Software Updates -> Update Software, then clickDownload and Installif a newer release is available. You’ll have to wait a few minutes while the installation process completes, possibly longer if you have a slower internet connection.
How to pair a Siri Remote to an Apple TV
The Siri Remote bundled with your Apple TV should be paired automatically, right out of the box, so don’t worry about any of this guide during first-time setup. Use the steps below only if you need to pair a replacement Siri Remote or reset the one you’ve got. You can only ever link one Siri Remote at a time – if you try to pair a second, the first will be removed automatically.
Here’s what to do:
It’s possible that you may be asked to place your remote directly on top of the Apple TV to complete the process. If pairing fails for whatever reason, try repeating the process again while holding down the button combinations for slightly longer. You could be counting too quickly. If that still doesn’t help, try charging the remote for at least five minutes.
How to pair a Bluetooth remote to an Apple TV
If you’d like to use a more conventional remote with an Apple TV, it’s easy to find universal Bluetooth remotes for sale at places like Amazon and Best Buy. Just check for Apple TV compatibility if possible, and remember that most of the buttons on these remotes won’t apply to your situation – you’ll mostly be able to scroll through menus, click on things, and adjust volume up or down.
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Still, that’s all some people care about, and it can be handy to have two remotes on the couch in case one gets lost or you’re not a fan of the Siri Remote layout.
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Follow these steps to pair any third-party Bluetooth remote:
How to pair an IR remote to an Apple TV
you may also control Apple TVs with universal IR (infrared) remotes, but we’d avoid going this route unless you want to repurpose one you already have. You need to “teach” an IR remote to control an Apple TV, and of course it won’t work unless you point it directly at the set-top. The IR receiver in an Apple TV is hidden on the same panel as its white status light – make sure that’s easily visible from anywhere in your room.
Once you’re ready, here’s how to get started:
When you’re done, the remote should stay permanently “paired” to your Apple TV, even if it’s also capable of controlling other devices. It may even work with other Apple TVs you own without any effort, but you’ll need to test that to be sure.
How to pair a HomeKit remote to an Apple TV
You’re unlikely to encounter one, butHomeKitremotes do exist. Apple simply refers to them as “network-based,” yet you’ll absolutely need the Home app on your iPhone or iPad. You can’t use the Home apps for Mac or Apple Watch.
This pairing workflow is a little more complex:
