For purely convenience, I prefer using the iPhone to control the Apple TV rather than using the physical remote. The software remote is highly responsive and comes with some useful customizations for a more personalized experience. One of my favorite features is the ability to use the buttons on the iPhone Apple TV Remote. Compared to swipe gestures, it makes the task of controlling the Apple TV a little easier. Have you tried the arrow keys yet? Well, it’s buried a bit deep in Settings and you need to enable the toggle to get started. Let me help you!
Use Buttons on iPhone Apple TV Remote Instead of Swipe Gestures
Gestures like newly introduced text editing and double tap to manage messages simplify many things and are appreciated. Most users hate the gesture of navigating their Apple TV remote. That’s why Apple has introduced an opt-in option to use the buttons in the Apple TV remote software. I also find it thoughtful in terms of user experience. So give it a try to see how it goes with your usage.
Enable Direction Buttons on iPhone
As I said above, you need to turn on the direction buttons first. Therefore, follow the steps below to enable it.
one. Settings app on your device. Next, scroll down and select Accessibility.
2. Under the Physical and Engine section, Apple TV Remote.
3. Now, turn on the switch. Direction Buttons.
Using the Buttons on the iPhone Apple TV Remote
The best way to use the Apple TV app on iPhone is to add the remote button to the Control Center. If you haven’t already, go to: Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls. Under the Other Controls sectionfind Apple TV Remote icon and tap on “+” press the button to the left.
Going forward, you can access the Apple TV Remote directly from your device’s control center.
On iPhone X or later: Swipe down from the top-right corner to bring up the Control Center and select the Apple TV Remote button. After that, go ahead and use the buttons as usual.
On older iPhones with the Home button: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access Control Center, then select the Apple TV Remote button.
SEE ALSO: 10 Tips to Improve Security and Privacy in iOS 13
Use iPhone Apple TV Remote Efficiently
This is the quick way to enable directional buttons on iPhone Apple TV Remote. For me, my iPhone is the best remote for controlling many things, including smart home accessories. The App Store is loaded with a bunch of remote apps (not to mention Apple’s own Home app) that work efficiently with iOS devices. So be sure to try some handy ones to check a few things. In the meantime, let me know your opinions on this useful hack.