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User profile for user: Al Hatch
Al Hatch Author
User level: Level 2
215 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

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User profile for user: Urquhart1244
Urquhart1244
Community+ 2024
User level: Level 10
140,086 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.
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User profile for user: Urquhart1244
Urquhart1244
Community+ 2024
User level: Level 10
140,086 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.
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Wi-Fi? Bluetooth? Something Else?

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