- Android TV and Google TV allow you to easily connect old or new Bluetooth controllers.
- There are two main pairing methods: button combination and Bluetooth setup.
- If the controller won't pair, you can try solutions such as restarting the device.
- Some controllers feature automatic pairing and advanced configuration options.
If you have purchased a new remote control for your TV or player with Android TV o Google TV, you may need to pair it properly in order to use it. Fortunately, these OS they offer a great compatibility with Bluetooth controllers, allowing you to connect new devices or even reuse old controllers.
In this article we explain how to pair a remote control with your Android TV or Google TV device, either through specific buttons or via Bluetooth settings menu, as well as what to do if your controller won't pair properly. If you'd also like to learn how to pair the Samsung remote, this article may be helpful.
Remote control compatibility with Android TV
One of the big benefits of Android TV and Google TV is their compatibility with a wide variety of Bluetooth devicesThis means that if you have a remote control from another TV or device that has Bluetooth, you may be able to reuse it without any problems.
Before starting the pairing process, it is important to check that the remote has batteries in good condition and that you are near the TV or player you want to connect it to.
Method 1: Pair the controller using a button combination
Some controls have a quick pairing method which involves pressing a specific combination of buttons. This method is useful for devices designed specifically for Android TV or Google TV.
- Press the power button: Press and hold the power button on the controller for 5 seconds.
- Activate pairing mode: Then, simultaneously press and hold the “Back” button (usually represented by an arrow) and the “Home” button for 10 seconds.
- Accept the linkA message will appear on the TV screen indicating that a new remote has been detected. Select "OK" to complete the pairing.
If this method doesn't work with your controller, you'll need to try the following procedure.
Method 2: Pair the controller from Bluetooth settings
If your remote doesn't have a specific button combination, you can pair it through the Bluetooth settings on your TV or Android TV player.
- Open the settings menu: On your TV, go to “Settings” using your current remote or the buttons on your TV.
- Select the Bluetooth option: Within the “Settings” menu, look for the “Bluetooth” option.
- Add a new device: Tap “Add new Bluetooth device” to search for compatible controllers.
- Put the controller in pairing mode: Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions to activate pairing mode on your controller.
- select controller: It will appear in the list of available devices. Select the controller and press "Pair". If you would like a guide on use a PlayStation 3 controller on another platform, it may be useful to you.
Solution to linking problems
If after following the steps above the controller does not pair correctly, try the following solutions:
- Restart your Android TV and remote: Sometimes a simple restart can fix connection issues.
- Reset Bluetooth: Turn Bluetooth off and back on in your TV settings.
- Remove and reinsert the batteries in the remote.: If the remote does not respond, try replacing or re-inserting the batteries.
- Reset the TV to its factory stateIf all of the above solutions fail, try resetting your Android TV to its factory settings.
Automatic pairing on some controllers
Some remote controls have a auto-pairing functionDuring initial device setup or when it loses connectivity, it will automatically attempt to pair with the TV.
In these cases, the controller will continue to operate via infrared until the Bluetooth connection is reestablished.
Reset a remote control
If the controller still won't pair, you may need to perform a factory reset:
- Press the “VOL +” and “PRG -” buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until the remote control light flashes blue.
- Then press “OK” and wait for the light to flash briefly.
- The controller will attempt to initiate the Bluetooth pairing process again.
By following these steps, you can connect any compatible remote to Android TV or Google TV quickly and easily. Whether you're reusing an old remote or pairing a new one, the flexibility of the operating system allows for a wide variety of options to improve your user experience.
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