Pairing your Roku remote is essential for controlling your streaming device. Whether you’re setting up a new remote or troubleshooting an existing one, this guide will walk you through the steps to pair, re-pair, or unpair your Roku remote.
Pairing a Roku IR Remote
Roku IR (Infrared Light) remotes require a direct line of sight to the Roku device but do not need to be paired. If you have an IR remote, simply insert the batteries (either AA or AAA), point the remote at your Roku device, and press the buttons. The remote will start working immediately, with no further setup required.
Pairing a Roku Point Anywhere or Enhanced Remote
Roku Point Anywhere and Enhanced remotes use RF (Radio Frequency), Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi Direct, allowing them to function without a direct line of sight. These remotes do require pairing with your Roku device. Enhanced remotes often include features like voice control, power and on/off buttons for your TV, gaming buttons, a headphone jack, and a remote finder alert.
To pair an Enhanced remote:
- Insert batteries into the remote.
- Power on your Roku device.
- Place the remote near the Roku device, which should automatically detect and activate the remote.
Re-Pairing or Resetting a Roku Remote
If your Roku remote becomes unresponsive, you may need to re-pair or reset it. Follow these steps:
- Unplug your Roku device from power for about 5 seconds, then plug it back in.
- When the home menu appears on your TV, insert the batteries into your remote, leaving the battery compartment open.
- Locate and press the pairing button inside the battery compartment. Hold it for 5 seconds or until the pairing light begins to flash.
- Wait 30 seconds while the Roku device completes the pairing process. A confirmation message should appear on your TV screen.
If the pairing light doesn’t flash, try using a fresh set of batteries and repeat the steps.
Adding a New or Second Remote
You can add a new remote or a second one to control the same Roku TV or player, which is especially useful for gaming or shared viewing.
To add a new remote:
- Go to the Home Menu on your Roku device.
- Scroll down to “Settings.”
- Select “Remotes & Devices.”
- Choose “Set up a new device,” then select “Remote.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair your new remote.
If pairing fails, repeat the process.
Unpairing a Roku Remote
Unpairing a Roku remote can help resolve issues or prepare the remote for use with another device.
To unpair your remote:
- Simultaneously press and hold the Home, Back, and Pairing buttons on the remote for 3-5 seconds.
- The indicator light should blink three times.
To confirm unpairing, press the remote buttons to see if your Roku device responds. If it doesn’t, the remote has been successfully unpaired.
FAQs
How do I sync my Roku remote without a pairing button?
You can use the free Roku mobile app to pair your remote. Ensure your smartphone and Roku device are on the same Wi-Fi network, then navigate to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Set up a new device on your Roku device using the app.
How can I connect my Roku device to Wi-Fi without a remote?
Download the Roku mobile app and navigate to Settings > Network > Set up connection, then follow the on-screen instructions.
Why isn’t my Roku remote pairing?
Common issues include low batteries, Wi-Fi connection problems, or objects blocking the remote’s infrared signal. HDMI interference may also cause pairing issues, which can be resolved by using a free HDMI extension from Roku.
By following these steps, you can easily pair, re-pair, add, or unpair your Roku remote to enhance your streaming experience.
