Following the launch of Google TV, the Android TV landscape has become more dynamic. We successfully integrated Google TV with Android TV, experiencing seamless operation with minor exceptions. This journey unearthed numerous insights, all of which we’ve incorporated into our comprehensive Android TV tips and tricks guide. Now, we present a straightforward tutorial on remapping the Android TV remote to introduce additional shortcuts and functionalities. With this, you can effortlessly capture screenshots, toggle tracks using volume buttons, deactivate the screen, and much more. If you’re eager to explore remapping the Android TV remote, let’s delve into it.
Revamp Your Android TV Remote for Enhanced Efficiency
Firstly, install the Button Mapper app. It’s free, but some customizations require a one-time fee of $4.99 (Rs. 175). The developer allows you to use Pro features without charge. Select “No Thanks” when prompted for Pro features. However, consider the paid plan if you’ll use the app on your Android TV.
1. To install, open Play Store on your Android TV and search for “button mapper”. Then, install it. Alternatively, install Button Mapper (Free, offers in-app purchases) on your Android TV from your desktop.
2. Once installed, open Button Mapper and enable Accessibility service by clicking “OK”.
3. Open Settings, go to Device Preferences, then to Accessibility, and select Button Mapper. Turn on the toggle.
4. In Button Mapper, tap “Home Button“.
5. Enable “Customize” and choose your preferred Home button pattern, such as “Double tap”.
6. Select your desired action, like “Screenshot“.
7. You’re done! Press the Home button twice on your Android TV remote to take a screenshot. Use the Send Files to TV app (Free, with in-app purchases) to transfer the image to your smartphone.
8. Similarly, remap the Back and Menu buttons. Now, I’ll demonstrate how to change tracks using the “Volume Buttons”.
9. Enable the toggle for “Customize” and select “Long Press” (or any other preference).
10. Then, go to the drop-down menu under “Actions” and switch it to “Media”. Choose “Next track”. You’re finished. If you’re using Spotify, double-tap the Volume up button to change tracks.
11. Finally, customize other remote buttons. For example, I don’t use the dedicated Prime Video button on my Android TV remote. To adjust default buttons, click “Add buttons“.
12. Click on “Add Buttons” here and press the desired button on your remote. I selected the Prime Video button.
13. It will register the remote button. Then, move to the registered button and open it.
14. Now, customize any action you want, as demonstrated earlier.
Remap Android TV Remote for Seamless Task Management
That’s how you remap the Android TV remote, enabling tasks such as taking screenshots, switching to the last opened app, turning off the screen, and more. Personally, I enjoy taking screenshots on my Android TV by double-pressing the Home button on the remote. You’ll likely discover your own preferred uses. Experiment with the Button Mapper app to leverage its capabilities. That concludes our guide. If you encounter any issues, feel free to leave a comment below.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
