Apple TV 4K can already handle basic TV controls like power and volume, but it does not offer a built-in way to change HDMI inputs. With a quick workaround, you can reassign the Siri Remote’s mute button to trigger your TV’s input selector instead.
This method replaces the mute function, but lets you move between HDMI ports without picking up a second remote.
How to map HDMI input switching to the Siri Remote
- On your Apple TV 4K, open Settings.
- Go to Remotes and Devices > Volume Control > Learn New Device.
- Grab your TV remote and follow the on-screen steps to teach the Apple TV the volume up and down commands.
- When prompted to press the mute button, press and hold your TV remote’s input button instead.
Once the setup is complete, pressing the mute button on your Apple TV remote will open your TV’s input menu. Press it repeatedly to cycle through available inputs. When the desired input is highlighted, wait a few seconds and your TV should automatically switch to it.
Using other remotes to control Apple TV
Many living rooms already have remotes that can operate Apple TV without extra accessories, as long as HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) is supported and enabled on your TV or AV receiver.
- Connect Apple TV to an HDMI port that supports HDMI-CEC.
- Make sure HDMI-CEC is turned on in your TV or receiver’s settings.
With HDMI-CEC active, common controls on your TV or receiver remote—such as directional arrows, select/OK, and play/pause—should work with Apple TV. Advanced features like voice search still require the Siri Remote or an Apple device.
You can also use the built-in Apple TV Remote in Control Center on an iPhone or iPad to control an Apple TV 4K, Apple TV HD, Apple TV (3rd generation), or an AirPlay-compatible smart TV.
For more complex setups with multiple components, universal remotes from manufacturers such as Logitech or Sofabaton can be programmed to operate Apple TV alongside other devices, consolidating home theater control into a single handset.