When your Chromecast with Google TV remote stops responding, you can't navigate the interface, launch apps, or control playback. It leaves the little dongle pretty much useless. Let's get it working again.
The first thing I'd try is a simple restart of the Chromecast itself. Unplug the power cable from the wall or the back of the device, wait a full 30 seconds, and plug it back in. This clears out any temporary software glitches that might be blocking communication with the remote. Give it a minute to boot back up to the home screen before testing the remote.
Replace the Remote Batteries
It sounds obvious, but weak batteries are the most common culprit. Pop open the battery compartment on the back of the voice remote and replace the two AAA batteries with a fresh set. Make sure they're inserted with the correct polarity, as shown inside the compartment. The remote uses Bluetooth, so it doesn't need a direct line of sight, but it does need power.
Re-Pair the Remote to Your Chromecast
If the remote has become unpaired, put the Chromecast into pairing mode first. Turn on the Chromecast, then press the button on the back of the Chromecast for 5-10 seconds to start Pairing Mode. Insert two fresh 1.5 volt AAA batteries in the remote if needed. If it does not pair automatically, press and hold Back and Home on the remote for three seconds, until the remote LED starts pulsing.
Use the Google Home App as a Remote
While you sort out the physical remote, you can use your phone. Open the Google Home app on your iOS or Android device and tap the Chromecast with Google TV device you want to control. On Android, this turns the virtual remote on or off. On iOS, tap Open remote to use the virtual remote.
Check for and Install System Updates
Sometimes a bug in the Chromecast's software can cause remote issues. Using the Google Home app on your phone as a remote, navigate to Settings > System > About > System update. Check for any available updates and install them. Keeping the system updated often resolves these kinds of connectivity problems.
Clear Cache for the Google TV System
With only 8GB of total storage, the system can get bogged down. Clearing the cache can help performance and stability. Using your phone as a remote again, go to Settings > Apps > See all apps > Show system apps. Find Android TV Core Services and select it, then choose Clear cache. This doesn't delete any personal data.
Reboot the Chromecast and Check TV Controls Separately
Chromecast with Google TV plugs into the TV's HDMI port for video, but it is powered by its power adapter cable. Reboot the Chromecast by unplugging its power connection, waiting about one minute, and plugging it back in. If the remote can navigate Google TV but cannot control TV power, volume, or input, go to Settings > Remotes & Accessories > Set up remote buttons and reconfigure those controls.
Reduce Wireless Interference
The remote uses Bluetooth, which can be disrupted by distance and nearby wireless equipment. If the remote responds slowly, move the remote closer to the TV, move the Wi-Fi access point away from the Chromecast, use an HDMI extension cable to move the Chromecast away from other HDMI cables, and try repositioning or flipping over the Chromecast.
Factory Reset the Chromecast Voice Remote
You can perform a factory reset on the Chromecast Voice Remote. Remove both batteries and wait five minutes. Reinsert the batteries while pressing and holding the Home button. Keep holding Home while the LED turns on and stays solid, then release the button when the light starts to pulse. If it does not pair automatically, press and hold Back and Home for three seconds.
Factory Reset Your Chromecast
If nothing else works, a factory reset is the final step. Be aware this will erase all your apps, logins, and settings, returning the device to its original state. With a virtual remote, select your profile at the top right, then go to All settings > System > About > Factory Reset.
Alternatively, use the physical button on the back of the Chromecast. While the Chromecast is plugged into the TV and powered on, press and hold the button until the LED starts blinking yellow. When the LED turns solid white, release the button and wait for the reset to finish. You'll need to set it up from scratch again, including re-pairing your remote.