How to troubleshoot your Smart Remote when it is not working

Last Update date : May 18. 2022

If you are experiencing issues with your Samsung Smart Remote, check out the guide below.

Is your Smart Remote not working with your Samsung TV? Your Smart Remote may be disconnected from your TV, or your battery may need to be charged or replaced.

Check if a plastic film is inserted in the bottom of your Samsung SolarCell Smart Remote. This film must be removed for the remote control to work properly.

using TV with Samsung Smart Remote

Note: The images, buttons and functions of your Samsung Smart Remote may be different depending on your model or geographical area.

Step 1. Try using your smartphone camera to take a picture of the front of your remote control. If you are an iPhone user, you can conveniently use your front camera to check.

Step 2. Check if you can see the infrared signals from your smartphone camera. If you can, then your remote control is working normally. If your Smart Remote is working, please ensure that it is properly paired with your TV.

checking the infrared signal on the remote

Step 3. If you cannot see the infrared signals, charge your Smart Remote using the USB port (C-type) on the bottom, or flip over the remote control to expose the solar cell. If your remote control has batteries, try replacing them with new ones. If your remote control still does not work, it may be defective, so please visit your nearest Service Center.

When you turn on your TV for the first time, your Samsung Smart Remote should automatically pair with your TV. If your Samsung Smart Remote does not automatically pair with your TV, follow the guide below.

Step 1. With the TV turned on, press and hold both the Return button and the Play/Pause button for more than 3 seconds.

pairing your remote step 1

Step 2. The TV and remote control pairing will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions to continue pairing.

pairing your remote step 2

Note: Please ensure that you are using your Samsung Smart Remote within 20 feet (6 m) of your TV. The usable distance may vary depending on wireless or environmental conditions.

Follow the guide below to check the battery level status of your Smart Remote.

Step 1. Press the Home button on your remote control and navigate to Menu.

Step 2. Select Settings > All Settings.

checking the battery level step 2

Step 3. Select General & Privacy > Power and Energy Saving.

checking the battery level step 3

Step 4. Select Available Remote Battery.

checking the battery level step 4

Note:

  • This function is only supported by the Samsung SolarCell Smart Remote.
  • The menu navigation path may vary depending on the TV model.

If the battery level is low, your Smart Remote may not function properly, or may be slow to respond.

Fast charging using a USB-C connector

Step 1. Connect a USB-C cable to the port on the bottom of the remote control.

Step 2. The LED on the front of the remote control will turn on once charging starts and will turn off when charging is complete.

using a USB connector

Note:

  • For faster charging and maximum usage time, refrain from using the remote while it is charging.
  • USB-C cable and charger are not included.

Eco-friendly charging using solar cells

When the Smart Remote is not in use, please flip it over to expose the solar cell and place it in direct natural or indoor light. This will extend the Smart Remote’s usage time.

charging solar cells

Note: Please ensure that the remote control is not misplaced when charging via the solar cells.

If your Samsung Smart Remote does not work properly when watching TV content while connected to a set-top box or other external devices, try controlling your TV with the external device’s remote control. To control external devices with your TV remote, set up a universal remote.

  • Press the Home button > Menu > Connected Device > Universal remote

Note:

  • This function may not be supported depending on the model or geographical area.
  • Specific external devices connected to the TV may not support the universal remote feature.
  • Do not place any obstacles in between the external device and the TV. It may cause improperly transmitted signals from the remote control.

Note:

  • If you are having trouble with your Samsung Smart TV, you should always check to see if there are any software updates available as these may contain a fix for your problem.
  • Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.

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