Universal remotes and streaming devices: what works

Apple TV works the other way round from most devices: instead of programming a code into the remote, you let Apple TV learn the signals your infrared remote sends.

1. 1

   On Apple TV, open Settings.

2. 2

   Go to Remotes and Devices, then choose Learn Remote.

3. 3

   Follow the onscreen instructions.

Source: Apple TV 4K User Guide: use other remotes to control Apple TV 4K

Source: Apple: if you can't control Apple TV with your home theater or universal remote

1. 1

   Find the code for your remote in the table below.

2. 2

   Press and hold the remote's Setup button until the red light stays on. If there's no Setup button, check the remote's instructions; some use TV and Power held together.

3. 3

   Enter the code.

4. 4

   Test Power and Volume.

Roku notes that not every remote supports every control. Some give basic control (power, volume and input); others add expanded control (home, arrows, back, play, pause and fast-forward).

Source: Roku: set up a cable, satellite or universal remote to control a Roku TV

Roku's published universal-remote codes are for Roku TV systems. Roku describes two kinds of remote for its devices: simple remotes, which use infrared and need a clear line of sight to the device, and voice remotes, which have a voice button with a microphone or magnifying-glass icon near the directional pad.

Source: Roku: what Roku remote do I have?

Amazon's help pages don't describe controlling a Fire TV with an infrared universal remote. What Amazon does document is HDMI-CEC, which you may need to turn on in your TV's settings to use some Fire TV features, and Equipment Control, which lets a compatible Fire TV remote control your TV, soundbar or receiver.

Source: Amazon: how to activate HDMI CEC and ARC on your TV

Source: Amazon: what is Equipment Control with Fire TV?

Google documents the reverse: setting up the Google TV remote to control your TV, soundbar or receiver. Go to your profile → All settings → Remotes & Accessories → Set up remote buttons, and choose the device for volume, power and input. Google also describes CEC, which lets HDMI devices be controlled with one remote.

Source: Google: set up volume, power and input control on your Chromecast or Google TV Streamer remote

Source: Google: what is CEC?

TV makers give HDMI-CEC their own names, which is why it's easy to miss in the settings menu. Amazon lists these; the steps vary by model and can change with TV software updates.

Source: Amazon: how to activate HDMI CEC and ARC on your TV