Sometimes, the Apple TV remote becomes unresponsive and does not work properly. The primary reason for this problem is low battery power. To make it work again, you need to charge the Apple TV remote. If the Apple TV remote is not working even after charging, you can reset the remote to fix the issue. Technically, there is no way to reset the remote. You can unpair and repair the Apple TV remote to give it a fresh start.
How to Reset Older Generation Apple TV Remote [White and Aluminum]
1. Hold and press the Left and Menu buttons simultaneously on your Apple TV remote to unpair it.
2. Wait for 5-6 seconds. You will see an Apple TV image on the TV screen that looks like two non-touching ovals at an angle.
3. Press the Right and Menu buttons to pair the Apple TV remote again.
4. You will now see the Apple TV remote image with two ovals overlapping like a chain link on the Apple TV screen. The remote is now paired and reset.
How to Reset Apple TV Remote [1st Generation, 2nd Generation, & 3rd Generation]
1. First, unpair the Apple TV remote from your Apple TV.
2. Long-press the Menu (or Back) and Volume Up buttons simultaneously.
3. You will see the pop-up message “Pairing Remote” on your TV screen.
4. Move the TV remote closer to the Apple TV. The pop-up message will disappear.
5. Now, you can use the Apple TV remote without any issues.
If the issues occur often, even after resetting, try restarting the Apple TV remote instead of doing multiple resets. To do it, press and hold the Control Center (TV icon) and Volume Down buttons simultaneously. Then, release the buttons once the light on the Apple TV turns off and on again.