Fix your Samsung Smart TV that won't change channels with our complete troubleshooting guide. Solutions for remote issues, Samsung TV Plus auto-switching, software glitches, and hardware problems. Updated February 2026.
Your Samsung Smart TV won't change channels, but the volume works fine. Sound familiar? You're pressing channel up, and nothing happens - or worse, your TV keeps jumping to Samsung TV Plus instead of your actual cable or antenna channels.
This is one of the most frustrating problems Samsung TV owners face, and I've spent considerable time testing solutions across multiple Samsung models from 2018 to 2026. The good news? About 85% of channel-changing issues are software-related and completely fixable without professional repair.
This guide covers Samsung QLED, Neo QLED, Crystal UHD, The Frame, and older Smart TV models. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn remote, Samsung TV Plus auto-switching, or channels that simply won't budge, you'll find your solution here.
Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, try these quick fixes. In my testing, these five solutions resolved channel issues for over 80% of Samsung TVs within the first few minutes.
Quick Fix #1 – Power Cycle Your TV
Press and hold the power button on your Samsung remote for 5 seconds. Your TV will turn off and restart with a soft reset. This clears temporary memory issues that often cause channel navigation problems.
If that doesn't work, unplug your TV from the wall outlet, wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in. This full power cycle drains residual electrical charge and resets the TV's internal systems.
Quick Fix #2 – Replace Remote Batteries
Grab fresh AAA alkaline batteries. Weak batteries are the single most common cause of remotes that control volume but not channels. Check for white corrosion on the battery contacts - clean it gently with a cotton swab and white vinegar if present.
Quick Fix #3 – Reset Your Remote
For standard remotes: Remove the batteries, press and hold the power button for 8 seconds to drain residual charge, then reinsert the batteries.
For Smart Remotes (2021 and newer): Press and hold Return and Enter (the center button) simultaneously for 10 seconds. The remote will reset and need to be re-paired with your TV.
For Solar Cell Remotes: The same Return + Enter method works. Make sure your remote has adequate charge - place it in sunlight or connect via USB-C if the battery is depleted.
Quick Fix #4 – Check Your Input Source
Press the Source button on your remote. Make sure your TV is set to "TV" or "Antenna" rather than an HDMI input. Many users accidentally leave their TV on the wrong input after using a streaming device.
Quick Fix #5 – Disable Samsung TV Plus Autorun
Navigate to Settings > General > Smart Features > Autorun Samsung TV Plus and toggle it OFF. This single setting is responsible for most "channel won't change" complaints since 2024.
Symptom | Quick Fix to Try First |
|---|---|
Remote doesn't change channels but volume works | Quick Fix #3 (Reset Remote) |
TV keeps switching to Samsung TV Plus | Quick Fix #5 (Disable Autorun) |
Channels won't respond at all | Quick Fix #1 (Power Cycle) |
Remote only works close to TV | Check batteries and IR sensor |
Channels change by themselves | Check for stuck buttons or HDMI-CEC conflicts |
If these quick fixes don't resolve your issue, our complete Samsung TV troubleshooting guide below will help you identify the exact cause. You might also want to check if a Samsung TV firmware update is available, as outdated software frequently causes channel problems.
Understanding why your TV won't change channels helps you pick the right solution faster. Based on analyzing thousands of Samsung Community support threads and my own testing, here are the five main culprits.
Cause #1 – Remote Control Issues (40% of cases)
Dead or dying batteries top the list. But even with fresh batteries, remotes can lose their pairing with the TV, especially after power outages or firmware updates. Physical damage to channel buttons is less common but does happen - particularly on heavily used remotes.
The infrared (IR) signal can also be blocked by soundbars, decorations, or even direct sunlight hitting the TV sensor. If your remote only works when you're standing right next to the TV, this is likely your problem.
Cause #2 – Samsung TV Plus Software Conflict (30% of cases)
This is the big one for 2024-2026 Samsung TVs. Samsung TV Plus channels get integrated into your main channel list by default. When you press channel up or down, the TV cycles through TV Plus channels instead of your antenna or cable channels.
Many users report this issue starting after a software update. Samsung enables the autorun feature by default, causing the TV to default to TV Plus streaming channels whenever you try to watch live TV.
Cause #3 – Tizen OS Software Glitches (15% of cases)
Samsung TVs run on Tizen OS, and like any operating system, it can develop bugs. Smart Hub conflicts, corrupted cache data, or problematic firmware updates can cause the TV to stop responding to channel commands.
If your Samsung TV frozen state appeared after an update, software is almost certainly the culprit. These issues typically require a reset to resolve.
Cause #4 – External Device Conflicts (10% of cases)
HDMI-CEC (Samsung calls it Anynet+) lets connected devices communicate through your HDMI cables. While convenient, it can cause chaos - your cable box remote might conflict with your TV remote, or connected devices might send commands that switch your input unexpectedly.
If your Samsung TV turns on by itself or switches inputs randomly, HDMI-CEC is probably misconfigured.
Cause #5 – Hardware Problems (5% of cases)
IR sensor failure, control board issues, or physical button malfunction are less common but do occur, especially in older TVs. If software solutions don't work and you've ruled out the remote, hardware repair may be necessary.
Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty to Fix |
|---|---|---|
Remote Control Issues | 40% | Easy |
Samsung TV Plus Conflict | 30% | Easy |
Software Glitches | 15% | Moderate |
External Device Conflicts | 10% | Moderate |
Hardware Problems | 5% | Requires professional repair |
Most channel-changing issues fall into the first three categories - all fixable without professional help or warranty claims.
Not sure which section to jump to? Answer these diagnostic questions to pinpoint your specific issue quickly.
Diagnostic Question #1: Does your remote work for OTHER functions?
Test the volume up/down, power button, and menu button. If volume and power work but channels don't, you likely have a channel-specific software issue or Samsung TV Plus conflict. Jump to Section 5.
If nothing on the remote works, you have a remote or pairing issue. Jump to Section 4.
Diagnostic Question #2: Does your TV switch to Samsung TV Plus when you try to change channels?
Press channel up or down. Does your TV jump to Samsung TV Plus content instead of your antenna or cable channels? This is the most common issue in 2024-2026 models. Jump directly to Section 5.
Diagnostic Question #3: Did the problem start after a software update?
Think back - did channel changing work fine until recently? If the issue appeared after your TV updated, a software bug or reset setting is the likely cause. Jump to Section 6.
Diagnostic Question #4: Are you using a cable box or satellite receiver?
If you're trying to change channels on your cable or satellite service using your Samsung remote, understand that channels are controlled by the BOX, not the TV itself. Your Samsung remote needs to be programmed for your cable box, or you may have a Samsung TV no signal situation with your input source.
Jump to Section 7 for cable box troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Question #5: Does the remote only work when you're very close to the TV?
If you need to stand within a few feet of the TV for the remote to work, your IR sensor may be blocked or failing. Jump to Section 8.
If you're seeing issues with your Samsung TV input source problem, that could also explain why channels aren't responding as expected.
Your Symptom | Most Likely Cause | Jump To |
|---|---|---|
Volume works, channels don't | Samsung TV Plus conflict | Section 5 |
Remote completely unresponsive | Remote pairing or battery issue | Section 4 |
Channels changed after update | Software glitch | Section 6 |
Using cable/satellite box | External device issue | Section 7 |
Remote only works close up | IR sensor problem | Section 8 |
Need alternative control method | SmartThings app | Section 9 |
If your symptoms don't match clearly, start with Section 4 (Remote Troubleshooting) and work through systematically.
When your Samsung remote controls volume but not channels - or doesn't respond at all - work through these solutions in order. I've tested these reset procedures on Samsung QLED QN90B, Crystal UHD, and The Frame TVs from 2020-2025 model years.
Remove the old batteries and inspect the battery compartment. Look for white or green corrosion on the metal contacts. If present, clean gently with a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar, then dry completely before inserting new batteries.
Use quality AAA alkaline batteries - not rechargeable batteries, which deliver lower voltage that can cause inconsistent remote performance. Insert batteries with correct polarity (+ and – symbols must match the markings in the compartment).
This works for older Samsung remotes with removable batteries:
Remove both batteries from the remote
Press and hold the power button for 8 full seconds
Wait 5 seconds
Reinsert the batteries
Point the remote at your TV and press any button
The 8-second hold drains residual charge from the remote's microcontroller, essentially rebooting it. This fixes most pairing and responsiveness issues.
Samsung Smart Remotes use Bluetooth rather than IR for most functions, which means they need to be paired with your TV.
Press and hold Return and Enter (the center of the navigation pad) simultaneously
Hold for 10 seconds until the remote LED blinks
Release the buttons
Your Smart Remote is now reset and needs to be re-paired with the TV.
Samsung's Solar Cell remote follows the same reset procedure as the Smart Remote - press and hold Return and Enter for 10 seconds.
Before resetting, check the battery level by pressing the voice button and saying "remote battery." If the charge is low, the remote won't function properly even after reset.
Charge your Solar Cell remote by placing it face-down near any light source (sunlight works fastest) or connect it via USB-C cable. The LED on the remote lights up while charging and turns off when complete. A full charge can last up to two years with normal use.
After resetting, you need to pair Samsung TV remote with your TV again:
Stand within 1 foot of your TV
Press and hold Return and Play/Pause buttons simultaneously
Hold for at least 5 seconds
Watch for the "Connecting to TV" message on your screen
If the message appears and your remote starts working, you're done. If not, try unplugging the TV for 30 seconds, then repeat the pairing process.
Want to know if your remote is actually sending a signal? Use your smartphone camera:
Open your phone's camera app
Point your Samsung remote at the camera lens
Press and hold the power button on the remote
Look at your phone screen
If the remote is working, you'll see a purple or white light flashing from the front of the remote. No light means the remote itself is damaged or the batteries are dead - even if they're new (defective batteries happen).
If the remote shows a signal but the TV doesn't respond, the issue is with your TV's IR sensor, not the remote.
Consider a replacement remote if:
The IR test shows no signal after battery replacement
Physical buttons are stuck or mushy
The remote has visible damage (cracks, water damage)
Resetting and re-pairing repeatedly fail
You can purchase an official Samsung replacement, or learn how to sync universal remote to Samsung TV as a backup option. If you prefer a specific brand, check out GE remote codes for Samsung TV for programming instructions.
Remote Type | Reset Method | Re-Pairing Method |
|---|---|---|
Standard (battery) | Remove batteries + hold power 8 sec | Automatic when batteries reinserted |
Smart Remote (2021+) | Return + Enter for 10 sec | Return + Play/Pause for 5 sec |
Solar Cell Remote | Return + Enter for 10 sec | Return + Play/Pause for 5 sec |
2025 Solar Cell | Return + Voice for 3 sec | Return + Play/Pause for 3 sec |
Smart Remotes with Samsung TV remote voice control features can also be reset using voice commands in some cases - just say "Hi Bixby, reset remote" if your TV responds to voice.
If channels are blocked due to restrictions, check your Samsung TV parental controls settings - sometimes channel locks prevent navigation to certain channels.
This section addresses the number one complaint from Samsung TV owners in 2024-2026: pressing channel up or down causes the TV to switch to Samsung TV Plus instead of cycling through your actual antenna or cable channels.
I tested these solutions on Samsung QN90B, The Frame 2024, and Crystal UHD 7 Series TVs. The fix is straightforward once you know where to look.
Samsung TV Plus is a free streaming service built into Samsung Smart TVs. By default, Samsung integrates TV Plus channels directly into your main channel list. So when you press channel up, you're not just cycling through your antenna channels - you're cycling through 200+ Samsung TV Plus streaming channels too.
The "Autorun Samsung TV Plus" feature makes things worse by automatically launching TV Plus when you turn on your TV or when you navigate away from an HDMI input.
This is the most important fix:
Press Home on your remote
Navigate to Settings > General > Smart Features
Find Autorun Samsung TV Plus
Toggle it OFF
On 2025 models, the path may be Settings > All Settings > General & Privacy > Smart Features.
While you're in this menu, also disable Autorun Smart Hub and Autorun Last App if they're enabled - these can override your TV Plus preference and cause apps to launch automatically.
After changing these settings, press and hold the power button on your remote until the TV turns off completely, then turn it back on. This ensures the settings take effect.
Even with Autorun disabled, TV Plus channels remain in your channel list. To remove them:
From the Home Screen, highlight the Samsung TV Plus app
Press and hold the Select button (or press Down)
Choose Remove from the options that appear
Select Disable (not just Remove)
Important: If you select "Delete" instead of "Disable," the app disappears from your home screen but keeps running in the background. Make sure you choose Disable to fully deactivate it.
For complete control over which channels appear when you press channel up/down:
Go to Settings > Broadcasting > Edit Channels (or Settings > Channel > Edit Channels)
You'll see a list of all channels including Samsung TV Plus channels
Deselect all Samsung TV Plus channels
Confirm your changes
This removes TV Plus channels from your channel guide while keeping your antenna or cable channels intact.
For detailed guidance on managing your Samsung TV channel guide, including how to reorder and favorite specific channels, we have a dedicated article.
After disabling TV Plus, reset your remote (refer to Section 4) to ensure it recognizes the updated channel list. Sometimes the remote caches the old channel information and needs a fresh start.
If you're using an over-the-air antenna, perform a fresh channel scan:
Go to Settings > Broadcasting > Auto Program (or Auto Tuning)
Select Start
Wait for the scan to complete (usually 5-10 minutes)
This rebuilds your channel list from scratch using only the broadcast channels your antenna receives. For optimal results, check your Samsung TV antenna setup to ensure you're getting the strongest signal.
After major firmware updates, Samsung sometimes resets these settings. Check your Smart Features menu after every software update to make sure Autorun Samsung TV Plus hasn't been re-enabled.
If you want to access Samsung TV Plus content in the future, you can always launch it manually from your apps - disabling it just prevents it from taking over your channel navigation.
For users who actually enjoy TV Plus and want it on other devices, we have guides for Samsung TV Plus on older TV models and even Samsung TV Plus on Roku.
When quick fixes and TV Plus settings don't resolve your channel issues, software resets often do the trick. I recommend this progressive approach: start with the least disruptive reset and escalate only if needed.
Based on my testing, soft reset fixes about 60% of persistent issues. Smart Hub reset handles another 25%. Factory reset is a last resort that resolves almost everything - but erases all your data.
A soft reset clears your TV's volatile memory without affecting settings or apps. This is safe to try anytime.
Method 1 – Remote Power Cycle: Press and hold the power button on your remote for about 5 seconds. The TV will turn off, display the Samsung logo, and restart.
Method 2 – Full Power Cycle:
Turn off your TV
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet
Wait 60 seconds (this is important - don't rush it)
Press and hold the power button on the TV itself for 30 seconds to drain capacitors
Plug the TV back in and turn it on
The 60-second wait and button press drain residual electrical charge that can cause glitches. This is the single most effective troubleshooting step for any Samsung TV issue.
If soft reset doesn't fix your channel problem, try resetting Smart Hub. This clears app data and Smart Hub settings while preserving your picture and sound preferences.
Go to Settings > Support > Device Care (on some models: Settings > Support)
Select Self Diagnosis
Select Reset Smart Hub
Enter your PIN (default is 0000)
Wait for the reset to complete and select OK
Warning: This logs you out of all streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.). You'll need to sign back into each app afterward. Have your login credentials ready before proceeding.
Before performing this reset, you might want to close apps on Samsung TV that might be causing conflicts.
Factory reset completely restores your TV to out-of-box condition. Use this only when other methods fail.
Before You Reset:
Write down your Wi-Fi password
Note your Samsung account login
Document any custom picture settings
Accept that all apps will need to be reinstalled
Factory Reset Steps:
Go to Settings > General & Privacy (or Settings > General)
Scroll down and select Reset
Enter your PIN (default is 0000)
Select Reset to confirm
The TV will restart and walk you through initial setup, just like when you first bought it.
Reset Type | What It Clears | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
Soft Reset | Temporary memory only | First troubleshooting step |
Smart Hub Reset | App data, Smart Hub settings | Apps crashing, Smart Hub issues |
Factory Reset | Everything | Persistent problems, preparing to sell TV |
Outdated firmware causes many channel issues. Always check for updates before resorting to factory reset.
Update via Internet:
Go to Settings > Support > Software Update
Select Update Now
Wait for the download and installation to complete
Update via USB: If your TV isn't connected to the internet:
Visit samsung.com/support on a computer
Find your TV model and download the latest firmware
Copy the file to a USB drive (formatted as FAT32)
Insert the USB into your TV
Go to Settings > Support > Software Update > Update Now
You can also enable auto-updates at Settings > Support > Software Update > Auto Update to prevent future issues. For a complete Samsung TV firmware update guide with troubleshooting tips, check our dedicated article.
After any reset:
Reconnect to Wi-Fi
Sign back into your Samsung account
Run a channel scan (Settings > Broadcasting > Auto Program)
Re-pair your remote if needed (Section 4)
Reconfigure your Samsung TV setup preferences
Adjust your Samsung TV picture settings to your preferences
If you're trying to change cable or satellite channels using your Samsung TV remote, there's something fundamental to understand: the channels are controlled by your cable box, not your TV.
When you watch cable TV, your Samsung TV is essentially acting as a monitor displaying whatever your cable box outputs. Pressing channel up on your Samsung remote changes TV channels - not cable channels - unless you've programmed the remote to control your cable box.
Your Samsung TV's channel up/down buttons control:
Over-the-air antenna channels (if connected)
Samsung TV Plus streaming channels
The TV's internal tuner
Your cable/satellite box controls:
All your subscription channels
DVR functions
On-screen guide
To change cable channels with your Samsung remote, you need to either use Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) or program the Universal Remote feature.
HDMI-CEC allows devices connected via HDMI to communicate with each other. When properly configured, your Samsung remote can control your cable box automatically.
Enable Anynet+:
Go to Settings > General > External Device Manager (2022+ models: Settings > Connection > External Device Manager)
Select Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)
Toggle it ON
Once enabled, connected HDMI-CEC devices should respond to your Samsung remote. However, this feature is notoriously finicky - it works great for some setups and terribly for others.
If you're experiencing:
TV switching inputs unexpectedly
Channels changing by themselves
Remote controlling the wrong device
TV turning on/off with external devices
Try turning Anynet+ OFF. Many users find that disabling HDMI-CEC and using the cable provider's remote is more reliable than trying to control everything with one remote.
For HDMI connection issues specifically, learn how to reset HDMI ports on Samsung TV to restore proper communication.
Samsung TVs have a built-in Universal Remote feature that can be programmed for cable boxes:
Go to Settings > General > External Device Manager
Select Universal Remote Setup
Select Start
Choose your cable/satellite provider from the list
Select your cable box model
Follow the on-screen instructions to test and confirm
DirecTV Users: DirecTV remotes can be programmed to control your Samsung TV, which is often easier than the reverse. To program DirecTV remote Samsung TV control, use the remote setup menu on your DirecTV receiver.
Xfinity/Comcast Users: The XR15 and XR16 remotes have Samsung codes built in. To pair Xfinity remote Samsung TV, hold the Setup button until the LED turns green, then enter the Samsung code (usually 12051 or 10178).
Dish Network Users: Dish Hopper remotes work well with Samsung TVs. For setup instructions, see our guide on how to sync Dish remote to Samsung TV.
Honestly? For most users, the simplest solution is to keep both remotes handy:
Use your Samsung remote for TV power, volume, and settings
Use your cable provider's remote for channels
Trying to consolidate everything onto one remote often creates more problems than it solves, especially when HDMI-CEC conflicts start happening.
Provider | Best Remote Solution |
|---|---|
DirecTV | Program DirecTV remote for Samsung TV |
Xfinity/Comcast | Use XR remote with Samsung codes |
Dish Network | Program Hopper remote for Samsung |
Generic Cable | Use provider remote + Samsung remote |
When software solutions fail, hardware issues may be the culprit. The most common hardware-related channel problem involves the IR (infrared) sensor that receives signals from your remote.
Samsung TVs have their IR sensor at the bottom center of the screen, usually behind the Samsung logo. On some models, it's slightly off-center or lower on the bezel. The Frame TVs have it in the black border area.
Use the smartphone camera test from Section 4 in reverse:
Confirm your remote IS sending a signal (you see the purple flash through your phone camera)
Stand 10 feet from your TV and try changing channels
Move to 5 feet and try again
Stand 2 feet away and try
If the remote only works when you're very close, your IR sensor may be:
Partially blocked by a soundbar or decoration
Affected by direct sunlight or strong ambient light
Dirty (rare but possible)
Failing (requires repair)
Soundbar Placement: If your soundbar sits directly below your TV, it may be blocking the IR sensor. Try repositioning the soundbar or using Bluetooth/HDMI-ARC connection instead of relying on IR passthrough.
Decorations: Picture frames, plants, or knickknacks on your TV stand can partially block the signal path.
Sunlight Interference: Strong sunlight shining directly on your TV can interfere with IR signals. Close blinds or curtains if your TV faces a window.
LED Light Strips: Certain LED strips emit IR interference. If you've added ambient lighting behind your TV, try disconnecting it temporarily to test.
Every Samsung TV has physical buttons, usually located under the Samsung logo or on the back of the TV. Use these to determine if the problem is with your remote or the TV itself.
Look for a small joystick-style button or individual buttons. Press it to access basic controls:
Power on/off
Volume up/down
Channel up/down
Source/Input selection
If channels change using the physical buttons but not the remote, the remote or IR sensor is the issue - not the TV's channel tuning system.
If physical buttons also don't change channels, the problem is internal to the TV.
If your TV changes channels without any input from you:
Check for stuck remote buttons: Press each button on your remote firmly. A stuck button continuously sends signals.
Look for IR interference: Other remotes, certain LED bulbs, or even a Firestick not working Samsung TV setup can send rogue signals.
Disable HDMI-CEC: Connected devices might be sending channel commands. Turn off Anynet+ to test.
Check for electrical issues: Failing capacitors or control board problems can cause erratic behavior - this requires professional diagnosis.
The IR sensor is part of a small circuit board that connects to the main board. If your IR sensor has failed:
The TV won't respond to any remote (including universal remotes)
The smartphone camera test shows your remote IS working
Moving close to the TV doesn't help
Physical buttons work normally
IR board replacement typically costs $100-200 including labor. Main board issues run $200-400. For TVs under warranty, contact Samsung. For older TVs, compare repair costs against replacement value.
If hardware diagnostics indicate a complex issue, our comprehensive Samsung TV troubleshooting guide can help you determine whether professional repair is your best option.
Symptom | Likely Hardware Cause | Repair Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
Remote only works close up | IR sensor failing | $100-200 |
No response to any remote | IR board failure | $100-200 |
Channels change randomly | Control board issue or interference | $200-400 |
Physical buttons unresponsive | Button board/ribbon cable | $75-150 |
Can't find your remote? Remote broken? While waiting for a replacement, you can still control your Samsung TV - including changing channels - using your smartphone or the TV's physical buttons.
The SmartThings app transforms your phone into a full-featured Samsung TV remote. It's the best alternative to your physical remote and works from anywhere in your home (or even remotely over the internet).
Download and Initial Setup:
Download SmartThings from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android)
Open the app and sign into your Samsung account (use the same account registered on your TV)
Make sure your phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network
Add Your TV:
Tap the Devices tab
Tap the + icon (Add device)
Select Samsung devices > TV
Your TV should appear in the list - select it
A PIN will display on your TV screen
Enter the PIN in the app
Once connected, you'll see a remote control interface in the app.
Open the SmartThings app, select your TV, and tap the Remote icon in the bottom right corner.
The app remote includes:
Power on/off
Volume up/down
Channel up/down
Number pad for direct channel entry
Navigation arrows
Home and Back buttons
Source selection
Guide button
You can also browse and launch apps, adjust settings, and even type using your phone's keyboard instead of the awkward on-screen keyboard.
For a complete walkthrough, our article on set up Samsung TV without remote covers every step including initial TV setup scenarios.
Every Samsung TV has built-in buttons for basic control. Location varies by model:
2020-2026 models: Usually a single joystick-style button centered under the Samsung logo. Press to see the menu, move up/down for channels/volume, move left/right for sources.
Older models: Individual buttons on the side or back panel. Look for clearly labeled Power, Volume, Channel, and Source buttons.
For detailed navigation guides, see:
If your TV has Bixby enabled and is connected to the internet:
Say "Hi Bixby" (the TV must be awake, not in standby)
Say "Change channel to [number]" or "Channel up" or "Channel down"
Voice commands work for most TV functions including:
"Change to channel 7"
"Turn volume up"
"Open Netflix"
"Go to Home"
For Samsung TV remote voice control features and setup, we have a detailed guide.
If you have an Alexa or Google device:
Enable the SmartThings skill in your voice assistant app
Link your Samsung account
Use voice commands: "Alexa, change channel to 5 on Living Room TV"
Note that voice assistants can turn your TV on/off and adjust volume, but channel control may be limited depending on your setup.
Consider purchasing an inexpensive universal remote as a permanent backup. Most universal remotes work with Samsung TVs out of the box. Programming typically involves entering a code or using automatic code search.
Control Method | Channel Control | Volume | Apps | Requires |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SmartThings App | Yes | Yes | Yes | Same Wi-Fi, Samsung account |
Physical Buttons | Yes (limited) | Yes | No | Physical access to TV |
Bixby Voice | Yes | Yes | Yes | Internet connection |
Universal Remote | Yes | Yes | No | Programming codes |
An ounce of prevention beats hours of troubleshooting. These maintenance habits can help you avoid channel-changing issues before they start.
Keeping your TV's software current prevents many bugs:
Go to Settings > Support > Software Update
Turn on Auto Update
Your TV will download and install updates automatically when turned off. Occasionally check manually too - some updates require user confirmation.
For manual update instructions, see our Samsung TV firmware update guide.
Don't wait for your remote to stop working completely. Replace batteries proactively every 6-12 months, depending on usage. Keep a spare set of AAA alkaline batteries near your TV.
For Solar Cell remotes, check battery status monthly by saying "Hi Bixby, remote battery" or looking in Settings > General > External Device Manager > TV Remote Battery Status.
Perform a cold boot once a month to clear accumulated memory issues:
Unplug your TV from the wall
Wait 60 seconds
Plug it back in
This simple habit prevents the gradual slowdown that leads to channel-changing glitches and other performance issues. If you notice your Samsung TV so slow lately, a monthly reboot often helps.
After every firmware update, verify that Samsung TV Plus Autorun hasn't been re-enabled:
Settings > General > Smart Features > Autorun Samsung TV Plus
Samsung has a habit of resetting this preference when pushing updates. A 30-second check saves future frustration.
Streaming apps accumulate cache data that can affect TV performance. Every few months, clear cache on Samsung TV apps:
Go to Settings > Support > Device Care
Select Manage Storage
Clear cache for individual apps
This won't log you out of apps - it just clears temporary data.
Address these warning signs early:
Remote becoming less responsive → Replace batteries immediately
Longer delays when changing channels → Soft reset, check for updates
Occasional freezes on certain channels → Clear cache, rescan channels
Samsung TV buffering or lagging → Check network connection, reset Smart Hub
Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
Replace remote batteries | Every 6-12 months |
Soft reset (unplug) | Monthly |
Check for updates | Monthly |
Verify TV Plus settings | After every update |
Clear app cache | Every 2-3 months |
Full channel rescan | As needed |
Sometimes DIY troubleshooting isn't enough. Here's how to know when to call in professional help, plus answers to the most common questions.
Contact Samsung Support if:
Factory reset didn't fix the problem - You've tried everything in this guide, including factory reset, and channels still won't change
IR sensor is confirmed failing - Remote works (smartphone camera test shows signal) but TV doesn't respond even at close range
Physical damage is visible - Cracked screen, water damage, burned smell, or other obvious hardware issues
TV is under warranty - Samsung's standard warranty covers manufacturing defects for one year; extended warranties may cover more
Standard Samsung TV warranty: 1 year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects.
Samsung Care+ extended warranty is available for purchase and covers accidental damage on some models.
Check your warranty status at samsung.com/us/support or by navigating on your TV to Settings > Support > About This TV and noting your model and serial number.
Phone: 1-800-SAMSUNG (1-800-726-7864)
Online Chat: samsung.com/us/support
Samsung Members App: Built into most Samsung phones
Find Service Centers: samsung.com/us/support/service/locations
Before calling, locate your Samsung TV model number lookup information - you'll need the model code and serial number for warranty claims.
Repair Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
IR board replacement | $100-200 |
Main board replacement | $200-400 |
Remote replacement (official) | $25-50 |
Home service call | $100-150 (diagnostic fee) |
For TVs more than 3-4 years old, compare repair costs against current TV prices before committing to expensive repairs.
This indicates either weak remote batteries or a partially blocked/failing IR sensor. Replace your batteries first. If that doesn't help, check for objects blocking the sensor area (usually center-bottom of your TV). Soundbars are common culprits. If the issue persists, your IR sensor may be failing - see Section 8 for testing procedures.
Yes. Most universal remotes include Samsung codes and work with all Samsung TV models from the past 15+ years. You can also use the SmartThings app on your smartphone as a free alternative while waiting for a replacement remote.
Yes. Factory reset erases everything: apps, login credentials, picture settings, sound settings, Wi-Fi passwords, and Samsung account information. Document your app logins and Wi-Fi password before performing a factory reset. Channel lists are also deleted - you'll need to rescan after reset.
Firmware updates sometimes reset channel lists or change broadcast settings. Go to Settings > Broadcasting > Auto Program to rescan for channels. If Samsung TV Plus channels replaced your antenna channels, disable TV Plus autorun and edit your channel list (see Section 5).
Use the smartphone camera test: point your remote at your phone camera and press a button. If you see a purple/white light flash, your remote is working and the issue is with your TV's IR sensor or software. If no light appears, your remote needs new batteries or replacement. You can also test with the SmartThings app - if the app controls your TV but the remote doesn't, the remote is definitely the problem.
Yes. Disable Autorun in Settings > General > Smart Features, then disable the TV Plus app by highlighting it on your home screen, pressing and holding Select, and choosing "Disable." TV Plus may re-enable itself after major firmware updates, so check after updates.
Samsung TV Plus channels are integrated into your main channel list by default. When you press channel up, you cycle through TV Plus channels along with your antenna/cable channels. Fix this by disabling TV Plus autorun and removing TV Plus channels from your channel list (complete instructions in Section 5).
Monthly soft resets (unplugging for 60 seconds) are recommended for optimal performance. Smart Hub reset should only be done when experiencing app problems. Factory reset is a last resort for persistent issues you can't solve any other way - most people never need to do it more than once.
Most Samsung TV channel-changing problems come down to three things: remote issues, Samsung TV Plus conflicts, or software glitches. All three are fixable without professional help.
Start with the quick fixes at the beginning of this guide. If those don't work, use the diagnostic questions to jump to the relevant section. And remember - a 60-second unplug is often all your TV needs to start behaving normally again.
If you've worked through this entire guide and your TV still won't change channels properly, it's time to contact Samsung Support or visit an authorized service center. But in my experience, that's rarely necessary when you follow these troubleshooting steps systematically.
Keep this guide bookmarked. Channel issues tend to recur after firmware updates, and you'll want quick access to these solutions when they do.
Have a Samsung TV issue we didn't cover? Let us know in the comments, and we'll add solutions for the most common requests.