Smart TVs and Android TVs have become ubiquitous over the past few years. There are many benefits that you get with Android TV, such as installing apps, streaming services, and connecting to external devices via Bluetooth. Moreover, some Android TV tips and tricks allow you to expand the possibilities of the program.
You can connect Bluetooth headphones for individual listening or even pair a keyboard and mouse combo to use the TV as a computer. If you are trying to connect a Bluetooth device to your Android TV but can’t, here are some quick solutions that can help you.
1. Add a device from the Remote Controls & Accessories section
With the recent update to the Google TV interface , the settings will be different on a variety of Android TV devices. Because of this, you will need to check the Remotes & Accessories section to pair a new Bluetooth device. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android TV by selecting the gear icon at the top of the home screen.
Step 2: Find and select Remotes & Accessories section.
Step 3: Select the Accessories tab.
The TV will now search for compatible Bluetooth devices to connect to.
Step 4: Once the device is detected, select it to start the pairing process.
Step 5: Allow Bluetooth pairing to be requested by selecting Pairing.
You will see that the device appears in the list of accessories. Select the Add accessory option again if you want to add another device.
2. Make sure the device is in pairing mode
The Bluetooth device or accessory you are trying to pair must be in pairing mode before you can start searching for devices on Android TV. Refer to the instruction manual that came with your Bluetooth device for how to put it into pairing mode.
In general, holding the power button until the light starts blinking is the best way to deal with most devices. However, it may vary based on the type of supplement you are using.
3. Unpair the accessory if it is connected to a different device
If you are trying to pair a Bluetooth accessory that is already connected to another device such as a smartphone or laptop, it is best to first unpair it with the connected device.
This will allow the accessory to be detected by the TV as a new device and to appear in the list of devices available for pairing. Once you unpair the accessory with your old device, make sure it’s in pairing mode before trying to connect it to your TV.
4. Try to pair a compatible device
Android TVs support Bluetooth connections with limited sets of devices and accessories. For example, you can connect headphones, keyboards, mice, game consoles, pointer devices, etc. Any accessory that you can use to control the input on the TV.
You cannot connect other Bluetooth devices such as smartphone, laptop or other Android TV. It is also possible that some accessories are not compatible with the Android TV. You can check the user manual of the device you are using for compatibility.
5. Unpair and re-add devices
There are times when the device you’ve paired with the TV can’t connect or gets disconnected frequently. If this is the case, you can try removing the connected device and pairing it again. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android TV by selecting the gear icon at the top right of the home screen.
Step 2: Find and select Remotes & Accessories section.
Step 3: Select the Accessories tab.
Step 4: Choose the paired device you want to forget.
Step 5: You will find two options – Disconnect and Unpair. Select Unpair.
Step 6: When asked to confirm, select OK.
The Bluetooth device is not paired now.
Select the Add accessory button and start the pairing process again by putting the accessory into pairing mode.
6. Unplug the TV and turn it back on
This is a very basic step that can sometimes fix problems that can seem a little big. If you have already tried restarting the TV and it doesn’t make any difference, try unplugging it from the wall socket and wait a few seconds before plugging it back in.
This should allow the TV to undergo a soft reset. Restart the TV and try to connect your device now.
7. Update the software on the TV
There is a good chance that the software on your TV has errors and is not allowing you to pair with external Bluetooth devices. Updating the software to the latest version should fix the problem if it is already software related. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android TV by selecting the gear icon in the top-right corner of the home screen.
Step 2: Scroll down to the last option, which should be More Settings.
Step 3: Select the About option right at the top of the list.
Step 4: Go to the System Update tab.
Step 5: Select Check for updates. Make sure the TV is connected to an active Internet connection.
If an update is available, it will appear on the screen. Select the installation option and wait for the installation to complete.
Connect Bluetooth accessories to your Android TV
Following these quick and easy steps should allow you to pair your Bluetooth device with your Android TV. Plug in some accessories and enjoy playing casual games on your TV with a console or just relax and enjoy a movie with headphones without disturbing others at home.