Roku remote not working? How to fix it
Roku has two kinds of remotes: simple IR remotes that need line of sight, and voice remotes that pair over Wi-Fi Direct. The fix depends on which you have.
Short answer
Replace the batteries first. For a simple IR remote, clear the line of sight to the Roku. For a voice or enhanced remote, restart the Roku, then re-pair by holding the pairing button (in the battery compartment) for 5 seconds. Meanwhile use your phone: make sure Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Control by mobile apps allows network access, then use a remote app.
Which remote do you have?
If there is a pairing button inside the battery compartment, it’s a voice/enhanced remote. If not, it’s a simple IR remote.
Simple (IR) remote
- Replace the batteries.
- Point directly at the Roku with nothing in the way.
- Check whether a phone camera sees the IR light when you press a button.
Voice / enhanced remote
- Restart the RokuUnplug for 10 seconds, then plug back in.
- Re-pairWhen the home screen appears, hold the pairing button for 5 seconds until the light flashes.
- Keep it closePairing can take up to 30 seconds.
Use your phone while you fix it
Roku accepts network commands when Control by mobile apps allows it. TVRemoteX then controls the Roku with no pairing code.
More detail: Roku remote app for iPhone.
Questions people ask
Why can my phone not find my Roku?
Check that Control by mobile apps allows network access and that both are on the same network. See TV not found on the same Wi-Fi.
Official sources
Written and checked by BiHai Song, developer of TVHomeX and TVRemoteX