As a Roku user, you’re likely familiar with the compact and intuitive remote control that comes with your streaming device. However, you may not be aware of the full range of features and functions that this remote has to offer. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the buttons on the Roku remote and explore what they do, helping you to get the most out of your streaming experience.
Getting to Know Your Roku Remote
The Roku remote is designed to be easy to use and navigate, with a simple layout that makes it easy to find the buttons you need. The remote typically includes the following buttons:
- Navigation buttons (up, down, left, right, and OK)
- Playback buttons (play, pause, fast forward, and rewind)
- Channel buttons (channel up and channel down)
- Volume buttons (volume up and volume down)
- Mute button
- Home button
- Back button
- Options button (also known as the asterisk button)
- Microphone button (on voice remote models)
Navigation Buttons
The navigation buttons on your Roku remote are used to move through menus and select items on the screen. The up and down buttons allow you to scroll through lists, while the left and right buttons enable you to move between different menu options. The OK button is used to select an item or confirm a choice.
Using the Navigation Buttons to Access Menus
To access the main menu on your Roku, press the Home button. From here, you can use the navigation buttons to move through the different menu options, such as “Streaming Channels,” “Search,” and “Settings.” To select an item, simply press the OK button.
Playback Buttons
The playback buttons on your Roku remote are used to control video playback. The play button starts playback, while the pause button pauses the video. The fast forward and rewind buttons allow you to skip forward or backward through a video.
Using the Playback Buttons to Control Video Playback
To play a video, select it from the menu and press the play button. To pause the video, press the pause button. You can also use the fast forward and rewind buttons to skip forward or backward through the video.
Channel Buttons
The channel buttons on your Roku remote are used to change channels. The channel up button moves up one channel, while the channel down button moves down one channel.
Using the Channel Buttons to Change Channels
To change channels, simply press the channel up or channel down button. You can also use the navigation buttons to move through the channel list and select a specific channel.
Volume Buttons
The volume buttons on your Roku remote are used to adjust the volume of your TV or soundbar. The volume up button increases the volume, while the volume down button decreases it.
Using the Volume Buttons to Adjust the Volume
To adjust the volume, simply press the volume up or volume down button. You can also use the mute button to turn the volume off completely.
Mute Button
The mute button on your Roku remote is used to turn the volume off completely. This can be useful if you need to take a phone call or if you’re watching a video in a quiet environment.
Using the Mute Button to Turn Off the Volume
To turn off the volume, simply press the mute button. To turn the volume back on, press the mute button again.
Home Button
The Home button on your Roku remote is used to return to the main menu. From here, you can access different menu options, such as “Streaming Channels,” “Search,” and “Settings.”
Using the Home Button to Return to the Main Menu
To return to the main menu, simply press the Home button. From here, you can use the navigation buttons to move through the different menu options.
Back Button
The Back button on your Roku remote is used to go back to the previous screen. This can be useful if you need to return to a previous menu or if you want to exit a streaming channel.
Using the Back Button to Go Back to the Previous Screen
To go back to the previous screen, simply press the Back button. You can also use the Back button to exit a streaming channel and return to the main menu.
Options Button (Asterisk Button)
The Options button on your Roku remote is used to access additional options and features. This button is also known as the asterisk button, due to its asterisk symbol (*).
Using the Options Button to Access Additional Options
To access additional options, simply press the Options button. From here, you can use the navigation buttons to move through the different options and select the one you want.
Microphone Button (Voice Remote Models)
The Microphone button on your Roku voice remote is used to activate the voice control feature. This allows you to use voice commands to search for content, change channels, and adjust the volume.
Using the Microphone Button to Activate Voice Control
To activate voice control, simply press and hold the Microphone button. Then, speak your voice command, such as “Search for Netflix” or “Turn up the volume.” Release the Microphone button to execute the command.
Customizing Your Roku Remote
In addition to the standard buttons, you can also customize your Roku remote to suit your needs. For example, you can use the Roku mobile app to turn your smartphone or tablet into a remote control. This allows you to use your device’s touchscreen to navigate menus and select items.
Using the Roku Mobile App as a Remote Control
To use the Roku mobile app as a remote control, simply download and install the app on your device. Then, launch the app and select your Roku device from the list of available devices. You can then use your device’s touchscreen to navigate menus and select items.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your Roku Remote
While the Roku remote is designed to be easy to use, you may occasionally encounter issues with it. For example, the remote may not be responding, or the batteries may be running low.
Resetting Your Roku Remote
If your Roku remote is not responding, you may need to reset it. To do this, simply remove the batteries from the remote and wait for 30 seconds. Then, replace the batteries and try using the remote again.
Replacing the Batteries in Your Roku Remote
If the batteries in your Roku remote are running low, you’ll need to replace them. To do this, simply remove the battery cover from the back of the remote and replace the batteries with new ones. Make sure to use the correct type of batteries, as specified in the Roku user manual.
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| Navigation buttons (up, down, left, right, and OK) | Move through menus and select items on the screen |
| Playback buttons (play, pause, fast forward, and rewind) | Control video playback |
| Channel buttons (channel up and channel down) | Change channels |
| Volume buttons (volume up and volume down) | Adjust the volume of your TV or soundbar |
| Mute button | Turn the volume off completely |
| Home button | Return to the main menu |
| Back button | Go back to the previous screen |
| Options button (asterisk button) | Access additional options and features |
| Microphone button (voice remote models) | Activate voice control |
By understanding the different buttons on your Roku remote and how to use them, you can unlock the full potential of your streaming device and enjoy a more convenient and enjoyable viewing experience. Whether you’re navigating menus, controlling video playback, or adjusting the volume, the Roku remote is an essential tool that makes it easy to get the most out of your Roku.
What are the main buttons on a standard Roku remote control?
A standard Roku remote control has several main buttons that allow users to navigate and control their Roku device. The main buttons include the directional pad (up, down, left, and right), OK, Home, Back, Play/Pause, and the asterisk (*) button. These buttons provide basic navigation and playback control, enabling users to browse through menus, select items, and play or pause content.
In addition to these main buttons, some Roku remotes may also have additional buttons, such as volume controls, a mute button, or channel shortcut buttons. However, the standard buttons mentioned above are the primary ones used for navigating and controlling the Roku device. Understanding the functions of these buttons is essential for getting the most out of your Roku experience.
What is the purpose of the asterisk (*) button on the Roku remote?
The asterisk (*) button on the Roku remote is a versatile button that serves several purposes. One of its primary functions is to provide additional options or settings for the current screen or menu. When pressed, the asterisk button often brings up a menu with extra features or settings related to the content being played or the current menu.
For example, when watching a video, pressing the asterisk button may bring up options to adjust the video quality, turn on closed captions, or access other playback settings. In some cases, the asterisk button may also be used to access hidden menus or developer options, making it a useful button for advanced users or those who want to customize their Roku experience.
How do I pair my Roku remote with my Roku device?
Pairing a Roku remote with a Roku device is a straightforward process. First, ensure that the remote has batteries installed and that the Roku device is turned on. Then, go to the Roku device’s settings menu by navigating to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remote > Pair remote. The Roku device will then search for available remotes and prompt you to press and hold the pairing button on the remote.
Once you press and hold the pairing button, the remote will connect to the Roku device, and you should see a confirmation message on the screen. If you encounter any issues during the pairing process, try restarting the Roku device and remote, or replacing the batteries in the remote. It’s also worth noting that some Roku remotes may have a dedicated pairing button, while others may require you to press and hold the Home button to initiate pairing.
Can I use my Roku remote to control other devices connected to my TV?
Yes, some Roku remotes have the ability to control other devices connected to your TV, such as a soundbar or receiver. This feature is known as HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) and allows the Roku remote to send control signals to other devices connected to the TV via HDMI.
To use this feature, ensure that your TV and other devices support HDMI-CEC and that the feature is enabled on your Roku device. You can do this by going to Settings > System > Control other devices (CEC) and selecting the devices you want to control. Once enabled, you can use your Roku remote to adjust the volume, turn on or off, or switch inputs on other devices connected to your TV.
How do I customize the channel buttons on my Roku remote?
Some Roku remotes have channel buttons that can be customized to launch specific channels or apps. To customize these buttons, go to the Roku device’s settings menu by navigating to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remote > Channel buttons. From here, you can select which channels or apps you want to assign to each button.
Once you’ve selected the channels or apps you want to assign, the buttons will be updated, and you can use them to quickly launch your favorite channels or apps. Note that not all Roku remotes have customizable channel buttons, so check your remote to see if this feature is available. Additionally, some channels or apps may not be compatible with this feature, so you may not be able to assign them to a button.
What is the Roku remote app, and how does it work?
The Roku remote app is a mobile app that allows you to control your Roku device using your smartphone or tablet. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store. Once installed, the app connects to your Roku device via Wi-Fi and allows you to control it using your mobile device’s touchscreen.
The Roku remote app offers many of the same features as the physical Roku remote, including navigation, playback control, and access to settings. Additionally, the app provides some unique features, such as the ability to use your mobile device’s keyboard to enter text on the Roku device, or to stream content from your mobile device to the Roku device using the “Play On Roku” feature. The app is a convenient alternative to the physical remote and can be useful in situations where you can’t find the remote or need to control the Roku device from another room.
How do I replace the batteries in my Roku remote?
To replace the batteries in your Roku remote, first, locate the battery compartment, which is usually found on the back or bottom of the remote. Open the compartment by sliding it open or removing the screws that hold it in place. Once open, remove the old batteries and dispose of them properly.
Next, insert the new batteries into the compartment, making sure to align the + and – terminals correctly. Replace the compartment cover or screws, and test the remote to ensure it’s working properly. It’s a good idea to use high-quality batteries and to replace them regularly to ensure optimal performance from your Roku remote. If you’re using a rechargeable remote, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and maintaining the batteries.