apple tv remote not working on iphone 16 pro

Verify that both devices connect to the same home network.

If your home network uses several SSID network names, then both devices should connect to the same named network, else they won’t be able to communicate with each other. Apple recommends that you configure your router to combine the wired and wireless as one logical network, without splitting the wireless into distinct names per radio band. Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points - Apple Support

Set up the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Same home network is all that is needed.

At this time, with all that you already checked, I would suggest to contact an expert from the Apple Support staff for further assistance. Contact Apple for support and service (phone numbers) or start your support request online (chat/​email/​callback).

I tested my iPhone 16 Pro and it’s working for me.

Try restarting the iPhone and Apple TV to see if this resolves it.

Same problem with my iPhone 16 Pro and the newest ATV 128GB. All functions that require direct communication between ATV and my iPhone don't work.

Funny enough, communication between my wife's iPhone 14 Pro Max and the same ATV box works as expected.