3rd generation apple tv is not reponsding to the remote

I have the same problem. Apple TV no responding to the remote. Managed to use my iPhone through airplay, but that's about it. not even my mac is recognizing apple tv.

Any suggestion on what to do?

See Pair or unpair your Apple Remote with your Apple TV (3rd generation or earlier) - Apple Support or Set up your Apple TV (4th generation) - Apple Support as appropriate.

See this collection of Apple TV support documents and user guides for further advice if needed.

tt2

Have you changed the battery?