Top 7 Roku Remote Hacks Every User Should Know
Top 7 Roku Remote Hacks Every User Should Know

Top 7 Roku Remote Hacks Every User Should Know

author img

By Trust Haven Solution

08-Aug-2025

If you already have a Roku Remote, chances are you are already hooked on how easy it is to enjoy your favourite movies and TV programmes. But have we told you that you're just starting out? Whatever Roku Streaming Stick 4K, Roku Express 4K+, or other Roku streaming device you may have, there are hidden tricks and strong hacks that can turn your everyday usage into an out-of-this-world experience.

From dominating layouts to retrieving a lost remote, these handy tricks will transform how you use your Roku device. Let's dive into the 7 best Roku remote tricks that every user should know in 2025.

1. Use Your Smartphone as a Roku Remote

We've all been there—your Roku Remote has mysteriously vanished among the cushions or croaked at the precise moment when you're about to press play. Luckily, Roku devised a solution: your phone.

How to Use the Roku Mobile App as a Remote?

  • Install the Roku app from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android).
  • Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device.
  • Open the app and select the remote icon at the bottom.

You can then use touch or voice commands. You'll also get:

  • A full keyboard for more convenient search entry
  • Private listening (see below)
  • App shortcuts and direct navigation

The app is completely compatible with Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Roku Express 4K+, and you will have complete control even if your physical remote is misplaced.

2. Turn Your Roku Remote into a Private Listening Device

Need to binge-watch without waking up the entire household? Roku's Private Listening option will make life so much simpler for you.

How Does It Work?

  • Launch the Roku mobile app
  • Plug in your headphones to your phone (jack or Bluetooth)
  • Press on the headphones icon to enable private listening

Now, the sound will be streaming directly to your headphones, and the TV's speakers will be silent. This is perfect for night owls, roommates, and families.
Private listening also supports Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Roku Express 4K+ via the mobile app. Some Roku Voice Remotes even have a headphone jack integrated, if you prefer a simpler connection.

3. Dominate Voice Commands for Faster Navigation

Tired of having to type out long search queries letter by letter? Roku voice remote controls enable you to skip the frustration.
Top Voice Commands:

  • "Open YouTube"
  • "Play Netflix The Office"
  • "Rewind 30 seconds"
  • "Search for action films"

Just press and hold the microphone button on your Roku Remote and speak as you would. It captures a wide variety of commands and works wonderfully with services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
This is really fantastic with the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, which supports the new voice remote-enabled ones.

4. Find a Lost Roku Remote using the Ping Feature

The Roku Ultra and more expensive models both have the remote-finder feature, and it's great.

Here's How to Use It?

  • Press the small button on your Roku player
  • Your remote will start to beep extremely loudly

Follow the noise and locate it. You can mute the noise by holding down any button on the remote once located. This one feature alone has saved hours upon hours of frustration.
Although this feature is not available on the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Roku Express 4K+, it is included on more sophisticated Roku devices.

5. Remote Control Your TV Using Your Roku Remote

You might not know that your Roku Remote has features beyond controlling your Roku device. It can also switch your TV on/off and change the volume.

How to Enable It?

Go to Settings > Remotes & Devices > Remote > Set up remote for TV control
Follow the on-screen instructions to determine your TV brand
Test it after setup using the power and volume buttons
This eliminates the need to work with multiple remotes. Whether Roku Streaming Stick 4K or Roku Express 4K+, this hack is something worth turning on.

6. Turn On Your TV Automatically with HDMI-CEC

With HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), you have the ability to turn on your TV automatically just by pressing one button from your Roku Remote. Say goodbye to using your TV remote.

How to Enable HDMI-CEC?

  • Visit your TV settings menu
  • Locate and enable the HDMI-CEC feature (brand name might be different, i.e., Bravia Sync, Anynet+)
  • Power cycle both your Roku and TV

Once it's set up, the Home button on your Roku remote powers on your TV and switches to the correct input for you automatically. It works like a charm with both the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Roku Express 4K+.

7. Customize Shortcut Buttons for Instant Access

A few new Roku Voice Remotes feature shortcut custom buttons, which allow you to assign your favourite apps or commands to single-button access.

Program Shortcuts:

1. Press the mic button and utter a command (e.g., "Launch YouTube")
2. As the app loads, press one of the numbered shortcut buttons until you hear a chime
3. That button is now configured to repeat the command

You can program apps like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, or even set commands. It's a smart way to save time and reduce clicking.

Update and Keep Your Roku Remote Charged

Low battery levels might slow down and render your Roku remote inoperable.

How to Check Battery Level?

Settings > Remotes & Devices > Remote > About
Replace batteries if it drops below 30%. You can also consider switching to a rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro, which will last for up to two months on battery and supports hands-free voice control.

Troubleshooting : Reset Your Roku Remote
If your remote fails to work, give this quick reset a try:
1. Take out the batteries
2. Unplug your Roku device for 10 seconds
3. Plug it back in and wait for home screen
4. Replace the batteries and press the pairing button (typically in the battery compartment)
A green light will start flashing, indicating successful pairing.

Read Also: Protect Your Devices In 2025 With Malwarebytes Antivirus

Final Thoughts

Your Roku Remote is smarter than you know. With these 7 smart hacks, you can discover capabilities that stream faster, more conveniently, and more enjoyably. Whether you have a Roku Streaming Stick 4K, Roku Express 4K+, or any other supported device, these tricks will help you unlock the true potential of your device.
From voice controls to voice commands and hidden settings, Roku has crafted a streaming experience with the user in the driver's seat. Use these hacks now and take your viewing experience to new levels.
Don't forget to forward this guide to other Roku users—because great hacks are even greater when shared.
 

Latest Blog

blog img

14-Nov-2024

Best Must-Buy Gaming Laptops In 2025

By Trust Haven Solution

Find the best gaming laptops of 2025 chosen for unbeatable power, portability, and sweet gaming experiences - find them all at Trust ...

See More
blog img

10-Apr-2025

ESET Home Security Premium Review

By Trust Haven Solution

In this connected world today, cybersecurity is not an option anymore; it is a necessity. There are so many devices at home, ...

See More
blog img

24-Apr-2025

Best 2-in-1 Laptops For Flexibility And Portability

By Trust Haven Solution

In today's fast-paced working world, professionals need devices that adapt to every possible position: typing reports, sketching innovative ideas, or presenting in ...

See More