Cannot control another device using the Bose remote

If the remote does not control your system, see Remote is intermittent or does not control your Bose product.

Some functions on the Bose remote change if the source is changed. Press the desired source button on the remote to be sure it is in the proper mode to operate that device.

Check if the original remote control for the device can control it. If it cannot, there may be an issue with the device.

Much like rebooting a smartphone, your product might need to be reset on occasion to correct minor issues. For more info, see Resetting your product.

Electronics may need to be reset from time to time—much like rebooting a computer. Disconnect power from the device for 30 seconds, then wait for it to start up.

For more info, see Programming your remote.

In case a setting change or error occurred with the remote—or if the device you are trying to control updated and now requires a different code—try reprogramming your remote to control your devices. For more info, see Programming your remote.

When you begin programming your remote in the Bose app, there is an Advanced option. This option lets you to select the brand and model of your device. Determine the brand and model of the device you are trying to control, then select Advanced programming option to manually choose the device. For more info, see Programming your remote.

The soundbar controls other devices using IR signals. The IR emitters are located in the corners of the soundbar. Moving the soundbar forward will allow the IR signals to reflect around the room in a different manner, often improving how other devices receive these signals. If the soundbar cannot be moved, be sure the corners of the soundbar are not blocked.

Soundbars are commonly placed in front of TVs. In this setup, the soundbar might be blocking the TV's IR sensor making it difficult for the TV to receive remote commands. Locate the TV's IR sensor and ensure the remote has a clear line of sight to the sensor. The IR sensor might be found under a translucent piece of glass or plastic on the TV's frame, or it may be near the TV's power indicator.

Your Bose system controls devices via IR (infrared). So, if the device cannot accept IR commands, your Bose system cannot control it. While home theater devices are commonly controlled by IR, there are a number of devices that are controlled by RF (radio frequency) or Bluetooth®. Additionally, some devices have remote control options in the device menu where you can select how you want to control the device (i.e. via IR or RF). Check if the device you want to control accepts IRs commands or has related menu settings.

Tip: Find the remote that came with the device. If there is a translucent plastic piece at the top end of the remote, it likely uses IR. However, if you cover that piece with your hand and the remote still controls the device, it might be in RF or Bluetooth mode.

Universal remotes, like your Bose remote, might control all or only certain functions of the various devices they can be programmed to control. Certain device features might only be accessible using the remote that came with the device.