Have you lost the original remote control for your TV or player? Android TV or Google TV, or simply want to add a new one or reuse an old model and don't know where to start? These operating systems' compatibility with a wide range of Bluetooth controllers and other accessories makes them one of the most flexible and popular options on the market. With this definitive guide, you'll discover all the possible ways to How to pair a remote control with Android TV quickly and easily, pair console controls, take advantage of advanced features, and resolve any common errors step-by-step, with all the alternatives explained in a simple and detailed manner.
Advantages of linking an additional remote control on Android TV and Google TV
Android TV and Google TV stand out from other systems for their enormous flexibility in remote control compatibility of various types. Linking additional controllers isn't just useful if you lose your original, it also allows you to:
- Do not depend on a single command, avoiding being left without control if it gets lost or the batteries run out.
- Configure multiple controllers to each member of the family has their own and avoid disputes over control.
- Use console controls for play or browse comfortably in the Android TV interface.
- Reuse old controllers or universal Bluetooth, saving money and reducing waste.
- Integrate additional features such as voice access or touch keyboards, depending on the controller.
Before you start, make sure your controller has charged batteries, you have access to the TV settings and are close to the device to ensure successful generation and detection.
Can I reuse an old or universal remote on Android TV?
One of the great advantages of Android TV and Google TV is their Compatibility with generic Bluetooth devices and third-party controllers. You can try with:
- Original remote controls from other Smart TVs (as long as they are Bluetooth).
- Universal Bluetooth controllers.
- Compatible console controls (PlayStation, Xbox, etc.).
Before pairing, make sure that:
- The remote control is actually Bluetooth (infrared ones don't usually work unless the TV has an IR sensor compatible with that specific remote).
- The batteries are charged and in good condition.
- The remote is not already paired with another TV or other active device, as remotes can typically only be paired with one device at a time.
If you are pairing a console controller or a special model such as the Philips or Sony touch controllers, consult the manufacturer's manual for the specific combination of buttons which activates pairing mode.
Quick pairing options: button combination on the controller
Many remotes designed for Android TV offer quick pairing using a button combination, which saves time and makes the process easier. This method is very common on models from brands like Sony, TCL, Xiaomi, Philips, and others. Follow these steps:
- Hold down the power button (Power) on the remote for 5 seconds to prepare it to be detected.
- Then press and hold the buttons at the same time "Behind" (arrow to the left) and "Start" (Home) for at least 10 seconds.
- A message will appear on the TV screen indicating that a new remote has been detected. You just have to select "To accept" o "Link" using another functional remote or other available touch method.
This process varies depending on the manufacturer. On some models, you may need to double-press or use additional buttons to enter pairing mode.
- If the message does not appear, repeat the process or check the batteries.
- On touch models from brands like Philips or Sony, access Settings > Network & accessories > Touchpad settings > Pair Touchpad, and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Some TVs allow you to press and hold the INPUT/Source button on the rear panel for about 7 seconds to activate pairing.
This method is the fastest if your remote supports it. If it doesn't work, there are alternatives available in Android TV's own settings.
How to pair remotes using your TV's Bluetooth settings
If the button combination doesn't work for you or your controller doesn't support it, the most universal option is pair it from the Bluetooth settings from your Android TV or Google TV. This method allows you to:
- Pair universal and console controllers.
- Pair compatible Bluetooth keyboards, mice, or accessories.
- With any functional remote, an IR control or using your own mobile phone, access the Settings menu from your Android TV.
- Find the section Controls and accessories, Bluetooth or similar, depending on the brand of your TV.
- Select the option “Add new device” o “Add accessory”.
- Put the controller you want to pair into pairing mode (see manual; usually by holding down two specific buttons until an LED flashes).
- A list of detected devices will appear on the screen. Select the name of the remote and press "Link" o "To accept".
If the remote is already paired with another device, turn off that device to avoid interference from previous pairing. Some accessories may require deleting previous pairings before using them on a new TV.
Connecting and setting up console controllers: PlayStation, Xbox, and more
One of the strengths of Android TV is the possibility of connecting console controllers such as DualShock, DualSense, Xbox controllers, Nintendo Switch Pro, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This allows you to play Google Play titles, use streaming services, or play cloud games. The process is similar to traditional pairing:
- Put the console controller in pairing mode (usually done by holding down buttons like “Share” and “PS” or the sync button).
- On your TV, open the Bluetooth settings and select the option to add a new device.
- Wait for the controller to appear in the list and select it. link.
Remember Each remote can only be paired to one TV at a timeIf you have problems, turn off the previous device or unpair the controller before attempting to pair again.
Use your Android phone as a remote control for Android TV and Google TV
If you don't have a physical remote handy or want a quick alternative while you pair another device, you can Use your Android phone as a remote control. This will be especially helpful if you've just bought a new TV and haven't paired any remote yet. Also, if you want to streamline the process, we recommend checking the Benefits of using apps on your Android devices to control different devices using your mobile phone.
- Download the app Google Home from Google Play on your Android phone.
- Open the app, select your Android TV or Google TV device connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Press on “Open command” and follow the instructions. You'll usually need to enter a code that appears on the TV screen to complete the pairing.
This feature is also integrated into the app. Google TV (formerly Play Movies and TV), and can be added as a shortcut in your phone's quick settings panel. If you don't see the option, update the app or add the "Remote Control" icon to your phone's quick settings. Control is simple, with navigation buttons and the ability to type from the phone's keyboard for searches.
- Both devices (mobile and TV) must be connected to the same WiFi network to work properly.
- On some models, it is necessary to update the app Android TV Remote Service on the TV for full compatibility.
What to do if the controller doesn't pair properly? Solutions to common errors
It's common to encounter issues when trying to pair a remote with an Android TV. Here are the steps to effectively troubleshoot common issues:
The TV does not detect the remote control
- Check that the remote control is actually in pairing mode.
- Change the batteries or recharge the remote control battery.
- Check be near the television and that there is no interference from other active Bluetooth devices.
- Please restart both the remote and the TV before trying again.
Pairing fails or an error appears
- On Sony TVs, it may help to turn Bluetooth off and back on in Settings.
- Remove the batteries from the remote, wait several seconds, and reinsert them before trying again.
- If the remote was already registered on another TV, turn off that other device to avoid conflicts.
- Some models require restarting the entire process from the beginning if they detect errors.
Pair special controllers (touch, advanced accessories, etc.)
- For Sony or Philips touch controllers, go to Settings > Network & accessories > Touchpad settings > Pair controller, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- If you don't have a working IR remote, some TVs allow you to press and hold the INPUT button or a physical button on the rear panel for several seconds to start the process.
As a rule, Each remote can only be linked to one TV at a timeIf you try to pair it with a second TV, you'll need to clear the previous pairing. If all else fails, try resetting the remote to factory settings (see its specific manual).
Mastering all of these pairing options will allow you to get the most out of your Android TV or Google TV, whether by reusing an old remote, pairing console controllers, integrating universal Bluetooth remotes, or using your phone as a temporary remote. The key is to try the right method for your TV model and the remote's features. If you found this helpful, please share this guide and help other users get the most out of their home entertainment.