YouTube TV remote not coming up on screen? Try these steps

⚡ Fast fix

• Press a navigation button first. The on-screen remote only appears during playback.
• Restart the app. Fully close and reopen YouTube TV.
• Restart your device. A full reboot often restores missing controls.
• Still not showing? Check for updates or reinstall the app.

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You’re watching something on YouTube TV®, go to adjust the volume or controls—and the on-screen remote just won’t appear. No overlay. No playback controls. Just the video.

It’s frustrating, especially when you’re trying to pause or rewind quickly. Asurion Experts help customers troubleshoot streaming interface issues like this all the time, and in most cases, the fix is simple. Here’s what’s happening—and how to get the YouTube TV remote controls back on screen.

Why is the YouTube TV remote not coming up?

On most smart TVs and streaming devices, the on-screen remote or playback controls only appear when the app detects input.

If it’s not showing, it could be because:

• The app froze during playback
• Your remote signal didn’t register
• The app didn’t fully load
• The device software needs updating

Let’s walk through what to try.

Press a navigation button first

On many devices, the playback overlay won’t show unless you press:

• The OK or Select button
• The directional pad
• The back button

Try tapping one of these while the video is playing. In many cases, that immediately brings the remote overlay back.

Restart the YouTube TV app

If the overlay still won’t appear, fully close YouTube TV from your device’s home screen and reopen it. Don’t just switch inputs—make sure the app completely shuts down.

If controls are still missing after reopening, move to a device restart.

Restart your TV or streaming device

Temporary system glitches can block app controls from rendering correctly.

To restart properly:

1. Turn off the device.
2. Unplug it from power.
3. Wait at least 60 seconds.
4. Plug it back in and power it on.

Once restarted, open YouTube TV and test the controls again.

Check for app or device updates

Outdated software can cause interface elements—including the on-screen remote—to malfunction.

On most devices:

• Go to Settings
• Select System or Software update
• Install any available updates

Keeping both the device and YouTube TV app updated helps prevent display glitches.

Reinstall the app if needed

If the YouTube TV remote is still not coming up on screen, reinstalling the app can clear corrupted files.

Delete YouTube TV, restart your device, then reinstall it from your device's app store.

Could it be a remote issue?

If none of the on-screen controls respond, test your physical remote:

• Replace batteries
• Check for stuck buttons
• Test another app to confirm responsiveness

If the remote works in other apps but not YouTube TV, the issue is likely app-specific.

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FAQ

Why can’t I see playback controls on YouTube TV?

Playback controls usually appear after pressing a navigation button. If they don’t, the app may need restarting.

Why is my YouTube TV screen not responding to remote input?

This can happen due to temporary app freezes or low device memory. Restarting usually fixes it.

Does reinstalling YouTube TV fix missing controls?

Yes. Reinstalling clears corrupted app data that can block interface elements.

Is this a YouTube TV bug?

Occasionally, temporary software bugs can affect interface elements. Updates typically resolve them.