Finding Your Lost Apple TV Remote Got Easier with iOS 17 and tvOS 17
Introduction
Imagine sitting down, ready for a quiet evening with your favorite show playing on your Apple TV, and you can't seem to locate your Apple TV remote. Has it been wedged between the cushions or kicked far under the couch? Often, a lost remote leaves us scrambling around or settling for alternatives, such as using the iPhone or Apple Watch as a controller. However, having a physical remote on hand is not quite the same.
Discussion on the necessity of finding lost Apple TV Remote
Over the years, the Apple TV remote has evolved into a sleek, sophisticated tool, offering a plethora of functionalities beyond just changing channels or adjusting the volume. From accessing different apps and playing games to even interacting with Siri, the dedicated remote adds to your Apple TV experience. Therefore, losing it can be frustrating, driving the urgency to find it without purchasing a new one. Furthermore, using the remote often saves time compared to using alternative devices, thus improving efficiency.
Introduction to key feature in iOS 17 and tvOS 17 to find the lost remote
While Apple introduced many user-facing changes in iOS 17 and tvOS 17, one that stands out significantly is the innovative feature to find a lost Apple TV remote. Apple has leveraged its 'Find My' feature, which has been instrumental in tracking down mislaid devices. Melding this capability into finding a lost remote seems smart, offering respite to those who often lose their remotes. This feature does not require any extra investment, and the functionality falls right in between identifying something with the extensive range of an AirTag and using the Find My feature on an iPhone.
Identifying the system requirements and upgrade procedure
While iOS 17 has numerous impressive features, it's important to note that not all devices may be compatible with this software update. Apple usually supports recent models, and the specific list gets officially announced during the software's release. Following the release, iPhone users can upgrade to iOS 17 via the settings app by heading to General, then Software Update, and following the prompt to download and install the new software version.
Potential time required for software update installation
The time required to install iOS 17 can vary based on different factors, including your internet speed, the server's load, and how much free storage space you have on your device. It is generally recommended to ensure a stable internet connection and at least 50% battery charge before initiating the update process to ensure a smooth updating experience. Users can expect the installation process to complete ideally within an hour, though it may be subject to change based on the factors mentioned above.
Opening the remote on the iPhone through the Control Center
To initiate the search for your Apple TV remote via your iPhone, access the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right of the screen. Tap the Apple TV Remote icon to open it. If the icon doesn't appear in the Control Center, you can manually add it by venturing into the 'Settings' app, tapping 'Control Center,' and then clicking on the '+' icon next to 'Apple TV Remote.'
Locating the remote using the 'Find' function in the App
Once you have the Apple TV Remote open in your Control Center, you should see the name of your connected Apple TV at the top. If your iPhone is not paired with your Apple TV, you may follow the on-screen instructions to set up the pair. Subsequently, the app shows a 'Find' button that you need to tap on. Progressive on-screen instructions will then guide you toward the remote's location, indicating distance status with labels that move from 'far' to 'near' and, finally, 'here' as you inch closer to the lost remote.
If the 'Find' button doesn't appear, the issue could be an outdated tvOS on Apple TV
If the 'Find' option doesn't materialize while you're trying to locate your remote, your Apple TV is likely not running on a compatible tvOS version. Updating your Apple TV to tvOS 17 enables this feature and helps you home in on your lost Apple TV remote without unnecessary equipment or hassle.
Functionality of the Feature
The function embedded within iOS 17 and tvOS 17 cleverly tracks down the missing Apple TV remote by indicating the user's proximity towards it. Although the Apple TV remote lacks an inbuilt AirTag that could have pinpointed its exact location, this feature replicates similar principles to help you find your remote.
Explanation of how the feature indicates proximity to the lost remote
If you've lost your Apple TV remote and are employing this feature, start standing in a corner of your room with your iPhone. As you move around, the feature will assist by indicating whether you're getting increasingly nearer or farther from the remote, just like the Find Nearby feature in the Find My app does for other Apple devices. The visual indicator on your iPhone screen will be a bubble. Its increasing size and color change from green to blue indicate proximity: the bubble expands as you move closer to the remote and turns blue when the remote is within a close range.
Suggestions for more precise future tracking features and upcoming Apple TV updates
While this feature serves its purpose reasonably well, the ultimate solution would be to equip the Apple TV remote with a precision tracker. Imagine an advanced tracking feature powered by the second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, like the one in the latest Apple Watches and iPhones. It could provide an arrow and indicate the precise distance to the mislaid remote, down to the inch. With speculations of a new Apple TV launching next year, hopes are high that enhancements like these could be part and parcel of future updates.