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If your LG TV channel buttons do not change channels while you are watching a set-top box, the Magic Remote may not be set up to control the set-top box. Set up Universal Control (integrated remote control) for the HDMI port your set-top box is connected to, then test channel control.
Please Note
- Make sure the set-top box is powered on before starting setup.
- Remove any objects between the TV, the Magic Remote, and the set-top box that could block the remote signal.
- If you use an HDMI switch or AV receiver, connect the set-top box directly to the TV during setup to avoid detection issues.
A channel not changing issue can occur when the set-top box is not configured for LG Magic Remote control.
When you are watching TV through a set-top box, channel changes are handled by the set-top box, not the TV tuner. If Universal Control (integrated remote control) is not set up for the HDMI input, the Magic Remote may only control the TV, so Channel Up/Down will not change channels on the set-top box.
1. Universal Control is not set for the HDMI input
If the set-top box was connected after initial setup, or automatic detection did not complete, the Magic Remote may not be assigned to control the set-top box on that HDMI port.
2. Remote signal is blocked or the set-top box is not positioned to receive it
If the set-top box’s IR receiver is blocked (by a cabinet door, soundbar, or other objects), the set-top box may not respond to channel commands during the test or normal use.
3. Magic Remote is not paired to the TV
If the Magic Remote is not registered (paired), some functions may not work as expected. Re-pairing can restore normal operation before you set up Universal Control.
Set up LG TV Universal Control so the Magic Remote can change set-top box channels.
Step 1. : Confirm you are on the correct HDMI input
Press the Input button on the Magic Remote and select the HDMI port where your set-top box is connected. Make sure the set-top box screen is visible before continuing.
Step 2. : Set up Universal Control (integrated remote control) for the set-top box
Setting: Settings > General > External Devices > Universal Control Settings
Open Universal Control Settings, select the HDMI port used by the set-top box, then select Manage Settings and choose Start Setting. Follow the on-screen instructions to select Set-top Box, confirm the HDMI port, choose your service provider (if prompted), and proceed to the remote control test.
Step 3. : Test channel control and finish setup
Setting: Settings > General > External Devices > Universal Control Settings
During the Test Remote Control step, use the on-screen test to confirm the set-top box responds. If it works, complete the setup by selecting Finish. After setup, try Channel Up/Down on the Magic Remote while viewing the set-top box input.
Step 4. : If the Magic Remote is not responding, re-pair it and try again
Turn on the TV, point the Magic Remote at the TV, and press Wheel (OK) to pair. If the pointer does not appear, re-register the remote by holding the Back and Home buttons together for more than 5 seconds, then follow the on-screen instructions. After pairing, repeat the Universal Control setup.
FAQ
- Q. Why does Channel Up/Down change channels only sometimes?
- A. Channel Up/Down changes TV tuner channels only when you are watching Live TV through an antenna/cable connection. When you are watching through a set-top box on HDMI, Channel Up/Down must control the set-top box, which requires Universal Control to be set for that HDMI input.
- Q. Do I need Auto Device Setup to configure the integrated remote control?
- A. Not necessarily. Some older webOS versions included Auto Device Setup, but it may not be available on newer versions. If it is not available or does not run, set up the set-top box manually using Settings > General > External Devices > Universal Control Settings.
Still Need Help?
If the steps above did not resolve your issue, please visit the LG Electronics Support website. You can chat with our virtual assistant or schedule a service repair for further assistance.
※ Please note that service fees may apply for engineer visits if your product is out of warranty.