You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

User profile for user: Al Hatch
Al Hatch Author
User level: Level 2
222 points

Wi-Fi? Bluetooth? Something Else?

In this topic, one discussion claims that Apple Remote communicates with Apple TV over Bluetooth. Another says it is Wi-Fi. Yet a third says, well, it is Wi-Fi, but not on the same band as your domestic 802.11. Can anyone provide the definitive answer, please? Thanks.

iPhone 13 Pro

Posted on Apr 22, 2022 6:12 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: Urquhart1244
Urquhart1244
Community+ 2024
User level: Level 10
143,118 points

Posted on Apr 23, 2022 2:54 AM

  • The physical Siri Remote uses bluetooth for the navigation, and IR for volume control (the latter directly to the TV or audio system).
  • Bluetooth is used instead of IR when volume control over HDMI is supported by the audio system, or when Bluetooth speakers or AirPlay speakers are the audio system.
  • Alternative physical remotes (universal remotes, third party remotes, old style Apple Remotes) use IR.
  • Certain third party home automation solutions may use the network (often Wi-Fi) for software remote functionality on (mobile) devices.
  • The software remote on iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch use Wi-Fi for control signals.
View in context

Similar questions

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: Urquhart1244
Urquhart1244
Community+ 2024
User level: Level 10
143,118 points

Apr 23, 2022 2:54 AM in response to Al Hatch

  • The physical Siri Remote uses bluetooth for the navigation, and IR for volume control (the latter directly to the TV or audio system).
  • Bluetooth is used instead of IR when volume control over HDMI is supported by the audio system, or when Bluetooth speakers or AirPlay speakers are the audio system.
  • Alternative physical remotes (universal remotes, third party remotes, old style Apple Remotes) use IR.
  • Certain third party home automation solutions may use the network (often Wi-Fi) for software remote functionality on (mobile) devices.
  • The software remote on iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch use Wi-Fi for control signals.
Reply

Wi-Fi? Bluetooth? Something Else?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.
Learn more Sign up