Managing Samsung TV Channels
If you want to change the channel on your Samsung TV but don’t have the remote, there are several ways to manage your channels. Here are some tips to help you.
Remote Resetting Tips
Resetting your remote can often fix issues with channel switching, such as the TV changing to Samsung TV Plus when using the channel buttons. To reset the remote, follow these steps:
- Remove the batteries from the remote.
- Press and hold the power button on the remote for about 10 seconds.
- Reinsert the batteries.
According to the Samsung Community, a simple reset can resolve many common remote issues.
Using Phone as Remote Alternative
If your remote is not functioning, using your smartphone can be a convenient alternative. Samsung Smart TVs can be controlled with the Tap View feature and the SmartThings app (Samsung). Here’s how to use your phone as a remote:
- Tap View: Connect a compatible phone to the TV. This feature automatically mirrors content from your phone to the TV.
- SmartThings App: Download the SmartThings app, which recognizes your Samsung TV and allows you to control it directly from your phone.
To use the SmartThings app:
- Download the SmartThings app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device.
- Once set up, you can use the app to control your TV, change channels, and more.
For more solutions on controlling your Samsung TV without a remote, check out our guide on how to change input on Samsung TV without remote.
Here is a comparison table for using typical remote alternatives for Samsung TV:
| Alternative Method | Features | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Reset | Fixes common remote issues | Functional remote, batteries |
| Tap View | Automatic mirroring from phone to TV | Compatible phone |
| SmartThings App | Full remote control functionality via smartphone | Smartphone, SmartThings app installed |
| Universal Remote | Control multiple devices, programmable to Samsung TV | Universal remote, device code |
Explore other ways to enhance your TV experience through our articles on how to turn off Bluetooth on Samsung TV and Samsung TV power button not working.
Remote Alternatives for Samsung TV
There are several methods to change channels on your Samsung TV without using the remote. Below are some effective alternatives to help manage your viewing experience efficiently.
SmartThings App Control
Samsung’s SmartThings app offers an excellent solution for those looking to control their TV without a remote. By connecting your phone to your Samsung Smart TV through this app, you can easily control the TV from anywhere.
Steps to Use SmartThings App:
- Download the SmartThings app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Open the app and sign in to your Samsung account.
- Tap the “+” icon to add a new device.
- Select your Samsung TV from the list of available devices.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing.
The SmartThings app also supports additional features like the Tap View, which mirrors content from your phone to the TV automatically.
Universal Remote Options
Universal remotes provide a convenient way to control multiple devices, including your Samsung TV. If you have a cable or satellite set-top box, Roku player, Fire TV, or a game console, chances are you already own a universal remote. These remotes need to be programmed with specific codes to control your Samsung device (Samsung Support).
Popular Universal Remotes for Samsung TV:
| Universal Remote Model | Compatibility | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Logitech Harmony Elite | Most Samsung TVs | $250 – $350 |
| GE Universal Remote | Basic Smart TVs | $10 – $20 |
| Inteset 4-in-1 | Smart TVs and Set-Top Boxes | $25 – $35 |
To see how to program these remotes, visit our guide on how to sync dish remote to samsung tv.
TV Button Controls
For immediate control without any external devices, you can use the physical buttons on your Samsung TV. Models from 2019 and later often use a single button that cycles through various functions when pressed (Samsung Support).
Button Locations:
- 2019 and later models: Single button usually located on the underside or back of the TV.
- Older models: Multiple buttons typically located on the side or back panel for adjusting volume, changing channels, and selecting input sources.
To learn more about adjusting specific settings like volume, see our article on how to change volume on samsung tv without remote.
By using these remote alternatives, you can effectively change channels on your Samsung TV without a remote. Whether it’s through the SmartThings app, a universal remote, or the TV’s own buttons, these options offer flexibility and convenience to enhance your viewing experience. For more device-specific guides, check out our articles on connect sonos to samsung tv and hbo max not working on samsung tv.
Special Control Methods
When the traditional remote is not available, there are several unique methods to control channels on a Samsung TV. This section explores two such methods: using a game controller and the Amazon Fire Stick remote.
Game Controller Usage
Using a game controller as a substitute remote can be a convenient option for Samsung TV users. To utilize this method, the Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature must be enabled on the TV.
Common game controllers compatible with Samsung TVs include those from PS4, PS5, and Xbox. These controllers can be paired with the TV following specific steps. Ensure the Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature is turned on to control the TV functions.
| Controller Type | Steps to Pair |
|---|---|
| PS4 | Navigate to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices, then hold the Share and PS button until the light bar flashes. Select the controller from the TV’s Bluetooth list. |
| PS5 | Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories, hold the Create and PS button until the light bar flashes, then choose the controller from the list. |
| Xbox | Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices, hold the pair button until the Xbox button starts flashing, and select the controller from the TV’s Bluetooth list. |
Amazon Fire Stick Remote Setup
Another convenient method for controlling a Samsung TV without a remote is through the Amazon Fire Stick remote. Similar to using a game controller, the Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature must be enabled to utilize this functionality.
Simply follow the steps below to set it up:
- Insert the Amazon Fire Stick into the HDMI port of your Samsung TV.
- Turn on the Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature from the TV’s settings menu.
- The Fire Stick remote can now be used to control basic TV functions, such as changing channels, adjusting volume, and powering the TV on or off.
For more intricate controls, refer to specific guidelines on pairing processes directly from Samsung Support.
Exploring these alternative methods can provide effective solutions for how to change channel on Samsung TV without remote. For additional tips and troubleshooting advice, check our articles on samsung tv power button not working, how to change input on Samsung TV without remote, and how to change volume on Samsung TV without remote.
Troubleshooting Samsung TV Channel Changes
Preventing Unwanted Channel Switches
Unwanted channel switching on a Samsung TV can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent these automatic changes. One common issue users face is their television automatically switching from an antenna channel to Samsung TV Plus.
To stop this automatic switch, navigate through the following settings:
- Go to Settings.
- Select General.
- Choose Smart Features.
- Turn Autorun Samsung TV Plus to Off.
This method ensures that your TV stays on the desired channel instead of flipping to an unwanted one (Samsung Community).
For more related tips, explore our article on how to change input on Samsung TV without remote.
Reset and Factory Settings
If you continue to face issues with channel changes, resetting your Samsung TV to factory settings might resolve the problem. This process will restore your TV to its original settings, potentially fixing any glitches or unwanted behavior.
To reset your Samsung TV, follow these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Select General.
- Scroll down and select Reset.
- Enter your TV’s PIN (default is 0000) and confirm the reset.
Resetting to factory settings can be particularly useful if your TV exhibits persistent issues, ensuring a fresh start and eliminating potential software bugs (Samsung Community).
If resetting does not resolve your issue, consider reviewing common troubleshooting techniques or seeking help from Samsung support. Additionally, you might find useful information in our articles on Samsung TV power button not working and how to reset HDMI ports on Samsung TV.
For further troubleshooting steps and internal resources, explore our guide for how to change screen size on Samsung TV without remote or tips on how to turn off Bluetooth on Samsung TV.
Voice Control Options
Voice control options provide a convenient way to manage your Samsung TV without the need for a traditional remote. Here, we explore the integration of Google Assistant as well as the use of Bixby and Alexa voice commands.
Google Assistant Integration
Setting up Google Assistant on your Samsung TV is straightforward. It involves using your phone to connect your Google account to the TV, which then allows you to control it with your voice (Samsung). Once activated, you can perform a range of actions using Google Assistant, such as changing channels, adjusting the volume, or finding specific content.
To customize your Google Assistant experience, you can change language and command preferences by navigating to Google Assistant Settings through the TV’s Settings menu (Samsung).
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Voice Control | Use Google Assistant to change channels, adjust volume, and more |
| Smart Home Control | Control smart home devices like lights and thermostats |
| Content Search | Find shows, movies, and weather updates |
For more detailed steps on integrating and using Google Assistant, you can visit our guide on how to change input on Samsung TV without remote.
Bixby and Alexa Voice Commands
Samsung Smart TVs also support Bixby and Alexa voice commands, providing another method for hands-free control. By holding down the microphone button on your remote, you can navigate the settings menu, change the volume, search for content, and more (Samsung).
Bixby, the AI assistant built into Samsung smart TVs, features a Voice Wake-Up function on 2019 and newer models. This feature allows you to use voice commands even if you’re not near the remote. However, it’s essential to note that using Voice Wake-Up may shorten the battery life of your remote.
| AI Assistant | Features |
|---|---|
| Bixby | Voice Wake-Up, navigation, volume control, content search |
| Alexa | Similar capabilities to Bixby, integrates with Amazon services |
Utilizing these voice command features can simplify how you interact with your Samsung TV, enhancing your overall viewing experience. For additional methods of channel control, check our articles on how to change volume on Samsung TV without remote and Samsung TV power button not working.