Newer Samsung Smart TVs use a One Remote that pairs over Bluetooth, not only infrared. If Bluetooth pairing fails, the remote can seem dead even when the TV and remote are both working.
These steps apply to Samsung standard remotes and Bluetooth Samsung One Remotes.
Does this affect you?
Use this if the TV does not recognize the remote, pairing starts but never finishes, or the remote works only sometimes.
Pair the remote manually
- Stand a few feet from the TV and point the remote at it.
- Hold Return and Play/Pause together for about three seconds.
- If that does not match your remote, try Return and Volume Down or check the remote model instructions.
- Wait up to 30 seconds for an on-screen pairing message.
- Test volume, channel, and navigation buttons.
Manual pairing fixes most One Remote cases where automatic pairing did not happen.
Replace batteries
- Remove the old batteries.
- Install a fresh pair with plus and minus ends aligned correctly.
- Point the remote at the TV and press any button.
- If it does not auto-pair, repeat the manual pairing combination.
Weak batteries can still run basic infrared commands but fail Bluetooth pairing. Try new alkaline batteries if rechargeable batteries are questionable.
Restart the TV and pair again
- Unplug the TV from power.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in and let it fully start.
- Point the remote at the TV and press any button.
- Repeat manual pairing if needed.
This clears a stuck Bluetooth state on the TV side.
Fallbacks and deeper checks
Most Samsung TVs have small physical controls on the underside or back. The SmartThings app can also control many Samsung TVs over the same Wi-Fi network while the physical remote is down.
Turn off nearby Bluetooth accessories while pairing. On some models, remove old paired devices from Settings > General > External Device Manager or Settings > Connection > Bluetooth, then pair again.
If the remote shows no light or reaction with fresh batteries, and a second known-good remote also will not pair, the TV’s Bluetooth receiver may need Samsung support or service.
Sources
- Samsung Support – Pair or reset your Samsung TV remote (2025)
- Samsung Support – Samsung TV remote troubleshooting (2025)
- Samsung Support – Replace the batteries in your Samsung remote (2025)