I cannot set it up on my Apple TV first generation. I cannot see it on the top left.
It might be broken. I can’t see the par the remote. I have an iPad fifth generation that I’m using to control the TV.
iPhone 12 mini, iOS 17
Question marked as
The original 1st generation from 2007 has no functionality to speak of in 2024. It never worked with a software remote.
The Apple TV (2nd generation) from 2010 is not compatible with the software remote in Control Center.
The Apple TV (3rd generation) from 2012 is compatible with the software remote in Control Center, but needs to be configured first with a regular functional Apple TV remote (aluminum) A1294.
The Apple TV 4K (1st generation) from 2017 is compatible, but it needs to be set up first with a regular functional remote (Siri Remote or Apple TV remote) — not the software remote.
Identify your Apple TV model - Apple Support
Find your Apple TV model number - Apple Support
Identify your Apple TV remote - Apple Support
For the software remote to work, the Apple TV box will need to have its network connectivity configured first.
The software remote can be a nice addition, but users should keep the bundled remote for when needed.
Set up the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
Possibly someone will lend you their remote temporarily for your setup?
For the legacy models, the Apple TV remote (aluminum) A1294 is needed. Apple doesn’t sell these anymore, but some other resellers may still have a few.
For the current models Apple TV (A1625 or later), the Siri Remote is advised. Apple will sell these separately (3rd generation Siri Remote). Replacement remotes will have to be linked or paired to the box.
For Apple Remote (aluminum) A1294: Link the Apple Remote (aluminum) with Apple TV - Apple Support
For the Siri Remote A1513, A1962, A2540, A2854: Pair the Siri Remote with Apple TV - Apple Support