Using your Genie remote control

When you have DIRECTV Genie, you’ll also get the versatile Genie remote, which comes with a variety of options to customize your viewing experience. Using the Genie remote is easy – here are some of the Genie remote’s most-used buttons and their functions:

  • MENU: Opens your home screen with menu options where you can browse programs, get recommendations, manage your recordings, access extra features, review system settings, and more.
  • GUIDE: Launches your channel guide.
  • SELECT: Allows you to choose a program or option.
  • DASH: Brings you to search options.
  • BACK: Returns you to the previous screen.
  • R: Allows you to record a program. If you press it twice, it will record an entire series.
  • LIST: Displays your DVR playlist and your scheduled programs.

To learn more about using your Genie remote, watch the video or view our Interactive Remote Guide.

References

Questions and answers

Helpful product questions tied to this manual. Each item links to the full Q&A page.

Questions & Answers

Use this section to ask about setup, compatibility, troubleshooting, or anything missing from this manual.

  1. Can’t get surround sound speakers to work with genie

    Don Ringenberg asks Can’t get surround sound speakers to work with genie
    Manuals+ clarified question
    Question

    How do I get my surround sound speakers to work with the Genie remote?

    Answer

    To get your surround sound speakers or audio receiver working with your Genie remote, you typically need to program the remote to control your specific audio equipment. Follow these steps:

    1. Press MENU on your Genie remote.
    2. Select Settings & Help > Settings > Remote Control > Program Remote.
    3. Choose Audio Device and follow the on-screen prompts to select the brand and model of your surround sound system.
    4. The system will provide codes to test; follow the instructions until the remote controls your volume and power.

    If you are still having trouble, ensure your audio receiver is connected directly to your Genie receiver or TV via an optical cable or HDMI (ARC). Note that the Genie remote (RC71 or higher) uses RF technology to communicate with the Genie receiver but uses IR (Infrared) to control volume on external audio devices, so ensure there is a clear line of sight between the remote and your surround sound receiver during setup.

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