How to Program DIRECTV Remote to Smart TV? Step-by-Step Guide

Looking to control your smart TV with your DIRECTV remote? Whether you're using a Samsung, LG, Vizio, or Sony TV, this guide will show you how to program your DIRECTV remote to your smart TV—fast and frustration-free.

This tutorial works with both DIRECTV Genie remotes (RC73, RC72) and Universal remotes (RC66, RC65).

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What You Need Before You Start​


  • Your DIRECTV remote
  • Your smart TV powered on
  • Your DIRECTV receiver set up and running
  • Optional: The 5-digit code for your TV brand (can be found on DIRECTV’s website)

Method 1: Automatic Pairing for Genie Remotes (RC73, RC72)​


This is the easiest way to connect your DIRECTV Genie remote to your smart TV.

Steps:

  1. Point the remote at your DIRECTV Genie receiver.
  2. Press and hold Mute + Enter simultaneously until the green light blinks twice.
  3. Your TV should display: “Applying IR/RF setup.”
  4. Once completed, your remote is in RF mode.
  5. Now press Menu > Settings > Remote Control > Program Remote.
  6. Choose your TV brand and follow the on-screen instructions to test volume and power functions.

💡 If successful, your Genie remote should now control your smart TV’s volume, power, and input settings.

Method 2: Manual Programming for Universal Remotes (RC66, RC65)​


If you’re using an older or universal DIRECTV remote, follow this method.

Steps:

  1. Slide the mode switch to “TV” at the top of the remote.
  2. Press and hold MUTE + SELECT until the green light flashes twice.
  3. Enter your TV’s 5-digit manufacturer code (e.g., Samsung: 10060, LG: 11423, Vizio: 11758).
  4. The light should flash twice again if the code was accepted.
  5. Test it: Try turning the volume up or powering off your TV.

🔁 If it doesn’t work, try another code from the DIRECTV remote code list.

How to Reset Your DIRECTV Remote (If Needed)​


If things aren’t working as expected, reset the remote:


  • Press MUTE + SELECT until the green light flashes.
  • Enter 981. The light will blink four times.
  • Reprogram using one of the methods above.
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BrandCommon Codes
Samsung10060, 10814, 10702
LG11423, 10178, 11178
Vizio11758, 11756, 10120
Sony10000, 10810, 11317


Pro Tips for Better Remote Control Experience​


  • If you only want to control volume/power, programming to your TV is enough.
  • To control additional devices (soundbar, DVD), repeat the same steps under a different mode.
  • Make sure your batteries are fresh to avoid pairing issues.

Summary: How to Program DIRECTV Remote to Smart TV​


Remote TypeProgramming Method
Genie (RC73)Automatic setup via Menu
Universal (RC66)Manual code entry


Once programmed, you can control your smart TV’s power, volume, and input using just your DIRECTV remote—no more juggling remotes.
 
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