How to add or replace an AT&T TV remote

The AT&T box, also known as the C71KW, comes with a Bluetooth remote. It does also have an infrared receiver so you can use any DIRECTV remote in IR mode. However, I personally think the AT&T TV remote is the best AT&T/DIRECTV remote out there and I prefer to use the remote it comes with.

If you are adding a remote, or if you have the remote you’re replacing

It’s especially easy to do this if you have a remote already set up for AT&T TV. AT&T TV allows multiple remotes, possibly up to eight. I wasn’t able to get a clear answer to my question on that.

With the AT&T system showing live TV, start by pressing the Home button on the remote:

It’s the one in the center of this image, that looks like a house.

Then, arrow over to the gear icon to get to the settings menu.

From there, press the down arrow. Arrow down to System, and press the right arrow.

Arrow down to Remote & Devices, and press the right arrow.

From there you can choose Add a new AT&T remote.

You’ll need to put the remote in pairing mode. Press and hold the Rewind and Fast Forward buttons for three seconds.

From here, just point the remote toward the AT&T TV box and wait. It will program itself!

If you’re replacing a remote

When you get your new AT&T TV remote, it will work in IR mode. You’ll have to aim it carefully to make sure that it receives the commands, but you should be able to get through the same menus.

I’ve also heard of people getting the prompt to press Rewind and Fast Forward in other places, and I have been told in some cases just putting the remote in pairing mode starts the process without going through the menus.

Here’s a video that shows the process in action. Some sequences may have been shortened.

Get AT&T TV from Signal Connect

If you’re ready for TV that goes where you go, with a voice remote that really listens, call Signal Connect at 888-233-7563 to sign up. It’s easy and quick, and our US-based call center will have you up and running in no time!

About the Author

Stuart Sweet
Stuart Sweet is the editor-in-chief of The Solid Signal Blog and a "master plumber" at Signal Group, LLC. He is the author of over 10,000 articles and longform tutorials including many posted here. Reach him by clicking on "Contact the Editor" at the bottom of this page.