Losing your Apple TV remote is a common frustration experienced by many. It's small, sleek, and has a knack for disappearing in couch cushions or under magazines. However, with the introduction of iOS 17 and tvOS 17, Apple has provided a solution that simplifies the process of finding your lost Siri Remote. This article will guide you through the steps to locate your missing remote using your iPhone, ensuring your viewing experience remains uninterrupted.
Requirements for Finding Your Apple TV Remote
Before you start, ensure your devices meet the following requirements:
- iPhone: Must be running iOS 17 or later.
- Apple TV: Needs to be on tvOS 17 or later.
- Siri Remote: Only the 2nd generation Siri Remote or later is compatible with this feature. This version of the remote is silver in color, distinguishing it from the black 1st generation Siri Remote.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Apple TV Remote
- Access Control Center: On your iPhone, open the Control Center. For iPhones with Face ID, swipe down from the top-right corner. For models with Touch ID, swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen.
- Select the Apple TV Remote Icon: Tap on the Apple TV Remote icon in the Control Center. If the icon isn't present, you can add it to the Control Center through the iPhone settings.
- Choose Your Apple TV: If you have multiple devices, select the Apple TV for which you're trying to find the remote. Next to the chosen Apple TV, tap the "Find" button.
- Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Your iPhone will display a user interface similar to the Find My app, showing a blue circle that increases or decreases in size to indicate how close you are to the remote. Words like "far" and "near" will also appear, guiding you to the remote's location.
- Locate Your Remote: Move around the room, paying attention to the changes in the circle's size and the proximity indicators. The circle will grow as you get closer to the remote, leading you directly to it.
Tips for Preventing Future Loss
- Regular Spot: Designate a specific spot for your Apple TV remote when not in use.
- Remote Holder: Consider purchasing a remote holder or a case with a tracking device, such as an AirTag, for easier location in the future.
- Utilize Voice Commands: Remember that you can control your Apple TV through voice commands with your iPhone, which can be a temporary solution if the remote goes missing.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Find My Remote feature in iOS 17 and tvOS 17 is a significant convenience for Apple TV users. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can quickly recover your lost Siri Remote, saving time and reducing frustration. This feature, alongside other tracking technologies Apple offers, emphasizes the company's commitment to enhancing user experience through innovative solutions.