Why a Roku Controller Doesn’t Work with FireStick
The Amazon FireStick is a streaming device featuring a remote control to make navigation on Fire TV easy for users. On the other hand, Roku is a media streaming device for Roku TV and also features a controller.
If you ever end up with a non-functioning FireStick remote, you may consider using a Roku controller. However, the question is whether the Roku controller will work with the Fire TV. Let’s have a look.
Can a FireStick be used with a Roku Remote?
Perhaps you have watched numerous videos online claiming you can attach the Roku controller to the FireStick and are unsure whether the Fire TV would operate regularly. Allow us to clarify the situation.
The FireStick can only decode signals from its remote, so using a Roku controller on it may not be possible.
Compatibility Overview: At first glance, the idea of using a Roku remote with an Amazon FireStick might seem plausible since both devices serve similar purposes. However, due to differences in technology and protocols, the remotes are generally not interchangeable out of the box.
Technical Differences: Roku remotes typically use Wi-Fi Direct technology to communicate with Roku devices, whereas Amazon FireStick remotes use a proprietary communication protocol specific to Fire devices. Additionally, the button configurations, infrared (IR) capabilities, and pairing methods differ between the two remotes.
Can You Use a Roku Remote with an Amazon FireStick? While the native compatibility between a Roku remote and an Amazon FireStick is limited, some users have reported success in using certain Roku remotes with FireStick devices by employing workarounds or third-party applications. However, these methods may not offer full functionality and may require technical expertise.
Workarounds and Solutions:
- Universal Remote Apps: Some universal remote control apps available on smartphones allow users to control various devices, including streaming sticks like the Amazon FireStick. These apps typically work over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and may offer basic functionality such as navigation and media control.
- Crossover Devices: There are third-party devices available that claim to bridge the gap between different streaming platforms, allowing you to use a single remote for multiple devices. However, compatibility and performance may vary, and additional setup steps may be required.
- IR Learning Remotes: Certain universal remotes support IR learning, where the remote can “learn” the functions of another remote by capturing its IR signals. While this method may offer more comprehensive compatibility, it requires both the Roku and FireStick remotes to have IR capabilities.
Limitations and Considerations:
- Functionality: Even if you manage to use a Roku remote with an Amazon FireStick through workarounds, you may encounter limitations in functionality. Some buttons may not work as intended, and advanced features specific to each platform may be inaccessible.
- Updates and Compatibility Issues: Software updates released by either Amazon or Roku may affect the compatibility of third-party solutions or workarounds. It’s essential to stay informed about any updates and be prepared to adapt to changes accordingly.
Why the FireStick Controller cannot be used on Roku?
There are two primary reasons why the controller may not be functioning. We’ll talk about them below:
Undetectable Signals
The distance at which signals transmitted by most Roku remotes can be received is constrained. A Bluetooth-enabled FireStick remote’s transmissions can be picked up within a 30-feet radius, and you do not necessarily need to point it at the TV.
On the other end, the Roku controller employs infrared rays. You should aim it at the television and ensure nothing hinders the rays’ pathway. In other words, ensure the controller is directed at the TV and that you are inside the radius or that the passage is unobstructed.
Pairing Issues
Before operating it, you must pair its controller with the FireStick. The pairing procedure usually involves sending a pin to the Fire TV, which must be typed into the remote to complete the process.
The HDMI wire is also connected to the controller. When you input a command, signals are delivered over the cable to operate the FireStick.
You might now wonder why the Roku controller must be connected because the HDMI link was stated. Wouldn’t that imply that the FireStick will be controlled by the Roku remote when linked through HDMI?
The TV receives and translates signals from a Roku controller linked to an HDMI cable, not the FireStick. Since signals from the FireStick are not interpreted, no commands can be given.
Future Compatibility of Roku Controller with the FireStick
Even though both Roku and FireStick are streaming devices, they differ significantly. Let’s look at a brief comparison between Roku and FireStick, for example.
The FireStick is acutely sensitive to the service you use and integrates Amazon’s Alexa assistance. Roku offers a very sophisticated search feature and doesn’t bother to care about the streaming provider.
Other than that, these two gadgets come from distinct producers. Therefore, because of these variances, it is difficult to predict if the Roku controller will function on the FireStick in the future.
Final Remarks
Even with an HDMI connection, the Roku controller does not function on the FireStick. This is because, as mentioned earlier in the post, the FireStick is set to interpret the signals from the FireStick remote. Consequently, it cannot appropriately decode the Roku remote’s transmissions.
