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Reconnect devices after replacing a Roku remote
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This wikiHow teaches you how to set up a replacement remote for your Roku player or TV. Since pairing a new remote requires getting to a certain place in the Roku's settings menu, you'll need an existing remote to pair a new one—but what if your existing remote is broken or missing? The trick is to use the Roku mobile app as a temporary remote to get through the setup process.

How to Pair a Roku Remote Replacement

On your TV, go to Home > Settings > Remotes & devices > Set up a new device > Remote . Point your replacement remote at the Roku, then press and hold the pairing button for 5 seconds (or until the status light blinks green).

  1. If you're replacing a lost or broken remote, you'll need to use the Roku app on your phone or tablet to navigate the menus on your Roku. [1] You can download the app for free from your Android's Play Store or your iPhone/iPad's App Store .
    • If you still have your old Roku remote and it still works, you can skip installing the app and just use that to set up the new one.
  2. They'll need to be powered on so you can browse the menus using the Roku app.
    • Make sure your phone or tablet is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku so the Roku mobile app can detect your player.
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  3. When you launch the app, it will automatically detect any Roku models on your wireless network.
  4. As long as the Roku is turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you'll see it as an option. Once you select it, you can start using your mobile phone or tablet as your Roku remote.
  5. It's the button shaped like a house.
  6. To do this, use the arrow keys to scroll and tap OK to select it.
  7. A list of your paired devices will appear.
  8. Now you'll see a list of devices you can set up.
  9. This puts your Roku into pairing mode.
  10. Remove the cover from the bottom of the remote and insert batteries in the direction indicated on the remote itself. If you have a standard IR (infrared remote control), replace the battery cover now.
    • If you have an enhanced remote "point anywhere" remote, you'll see a small round button just below the battery compartment. If you see this, leave the battery cover off for now so you can complete the next step.
  11. If your replacement remote is a standard IR remote, simply point it at at your Roku to complete the pairing. If you're using an enhanced remote, press and hold the pairing button for about 5 seconds, or until you see a light come on in the battery compartment or the remote begin to flash. Once the remote is successfully paired, you'll be returned to the "Remotes & devices" menu.
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      Tips

      • The Roku mobile app may not be able to control all models of Roku speakers and soundbars.
      • If your new remote isn't working, try a fresh set of matching batteries.
      • Make sure to check your remote to see which way your batteries should be inserted. Look inside the battery tray to see where the "+" and "-" signs are stamped.
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      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      1. Install the Roku app on your phone or tablet.
      2. Turn on your TV and Roku.
      3. Open the Roku app and select your Roku.
      4. Tap Home on the Roku app and select Settings .
      5. Select Remotes & devices and then Set up a new device .
      6. Select Remote .
      7. Insert batteries into the remote.
      8. Point the remote at the Roku to pair (if it's an IR remote).
      9. If it's an enhanced remote, press and hold the pairing button under the battery cover until the lights flash to pair.

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