Bypassing Samsung QN85A Remote Not Responding After Firmware Update

Bypassing Samsung QN85A Remote Not Responding After Firmware Update

When the latest firmware lands on your Samsung QN85A, the screen may light up with fresh features while the remote goes quiet. It’s a common hiccup that can leave you scrambling for a controller. The good news is that the issue can usually be resolved without waiting for another update. Below is a thorough, step‑by‑step guide that walks you through every logical possibility—from simple battery checks to more advanced workarounds like using the Samsung SmartThings app or a universal remote.

Why the Remote Stops Responding After a Firmware Update

Firmware updates are designed to patch bugs, add new features, and sometimes alter how peripheral devices communicate with the TV. During the update process the TV often performs a reset that can temporarily disable the remote’s pairing information. If the remote’s firmware is not refreshed at the same time or if the pairing process is interrupted, the remote may no longer be able to talk to the TV’s infrared receiver.

Common culprits include:

• Mismatched firmware versions between the TV and the remote.
• Interrupted update due to power loss or network failure.
• Battery depletion during the update, which can cause the remote to shut down before completing re‑pairing.
• Physical blockage of the IR sensor on the TV or on the remote.

Understanding why the problem occurs helps you decide which troubleshooting step to tackle first.

Verify That the Firmware Update Completed

1. Check the TV’s firmware status
   On the home screen, press the Home button, then navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update.
   If the status reads Up to date or shows the new version number, the update finished successfully.

2. Watch for any error messages
   If the screen flashes Update failed or Please try again, you may need to re‑install the firmware.

3. Check your internet connection
   A weak or intermittent Wi‑Fi link can cause the update to stall. Make sure your TV stays connected for the duration of the process.

If the update is complete and the remote is still unresponsive, move on to the basic troubleshooting steps below.

Basic Remote Troubleshooting

Check the Batteries

Power loss during the firmware update is a common cause of a dead remote.

• Remove each battery, let them sit for a minute, then re‑insert them firmly.
• If you have spare batteries, use them right away.

Inspect the IR Sensor

The remote’s infrared (IR) emitter is tiny, but dirt or a slight misalignment can break communication.

• Look at the front face of the remote.
• Use a microfiber cloth to wipe any smudge.
• Hold the remote about 6 inches from the TV’s IR sensor, press a button, and watch the sensor light. If it does not flash, the sensor might be blocked.

Reset the Remote

Many Samsung remotes can be reset to factory settings.

• With batteries in place, press and hold the Return button and the Play/Pause button simultaneously for 7–10 seconds.
• A sound or visual cue should confirm the reset.

Re‑pair the Remote

If a reset did not help, you may need to initiate a fresh pairing.

1. Put the TV in pairing mode
   On the TV, go to Settings → General → External Device Manager → Device Connect Manager → Turn On.

2. Hold the remote’s pairing button
   With the remote pointed at the TV, press and hold the Return button and the Play/Pause button together until the TV’s pairing indicator lights up.

3. Wait for confirmation
   Once the TV confirms the pairing, the remote should start working again.

If the remote still does not respond, the problem is likely deeper than a simple pairing issue.

Bypass Options

If the remote remains stubborn, consider the following alternatives. They all use built‑in features of the TV or external devices to take over the remote’s role.

Using the Samsung SmartThings App

Samsung’s SmartThings mobile app provides full remote functionality over Wi‑Fi.

• Download SmartThings from the App Store or Google Play.
• Add your TV to the app by following the on‑screen instructions.
• Once connected, you can navigate the TV’s menu, change settings, and even use voice commands if your phone supports it.

This method bypasses the IR channel entirely, so any physical issue with the remote or the TV’s sensor will not matter.

Using a Universal Remote

A well‑programmed universal remote can emulate the Samsung QN85A’s IR codes.

1. Purchase a compatible universal remote that supports Samsung 4K TVs.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s pairing instructions—usually involves pressing a “Learn” button on the TV while selecting a preset on the remote.
3. Test the functions—make sure you can turn the TV on/off, change channels, and adjust volume.

The advantage is that a universal remote can be kept in a drawer or a wall pocket and used with multiple devices.

Using the TV’s Built‑In Remote

Some Samsung TVs come with a small, infrared‑only remote in the same box as the main remote.

• If you still have it, test it against the TV’s sensor.
• If it works, you can pair it following the same steps as above.

Using a Wired Remote

Certain Samsung TVs include a simple wired remote (usually a small IR transmitter with a cable).

• Plug it into the TV’s Remote Control Port (often found near the HDMI‑CEC button).
• Use the remote’s buttons to test basic functionality.
• If it works, you can use it as a temporary replacement.

Advanced Workarounds

If you’ve exhausted the options above and the remote still does not respond, try these more involved solutions.

Reinstalling the Remote Software

Samsung occasionally provides a firmware file specifically for the remote, though it is not publicly listed. Contact Samsung Support for a remote firmware package and instructions to load it onto the remote via the TV.

Using HDMI‑CEC

If your TV supports HDMI‑CEC, you can control it via a compatible HDMI‑connected device (e.g., a soundbar, AV receiver, or gaming console).

• Turn on Anynet+ (HDMI‑CEC) in the TV’s settings.
• Use the connected device’s remote to control the TV’s basic functions.

This method can serve as a short‑term solution until the remote is fixed.

Reverting Firmware

In rare cases, the latest firmware may introduce a bug that disables remote functionality.

• In the TV’s Settings → Support → Software Update → Roll Back, select the previous version (if available).
• After reverting, re‑pair the remote as described earlier.

Reverting Firmware

Samsung provides a Roll Back feature in the Software Update menu. This can be useful if the new firmware is the culprit.

1. Navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update → Roll Back.
2. If a previous version is listed, select it and confirm the download.
3. Once the revert completes, restart the TV.
4. Re‑pair the remote.

This can restore the remote to normal operation if the new firmware version had a bug affecting IR communication.

Contacting Samsung Support

If none of the above steps solve the issue, it’s time to reach out for professional help.

• Phone or chat: Call Samsung’s support line or use the Live Chat option on the Samsung website.
• Service appointment: If the remote is physically damaged or the TV’s IR sensor is malfunctioning, a technician may need to inspect the hardware.
• Warranty considerations: Verify that your TV or remote is still under warranty or a repair plan before scheduling service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

A Samsung QN85A remote that stops working after a firmware update can be frustrating, but the problem rarely requires a full hardware replacement. By systematically checking the batteries, inspecting the IR sensor, resetting and re‑pairing the remote, and finally turning to software solutions like the SmartThings app or a universal remote, you can usually restore control in minutes. If the issue persists, use HDMI‑CEC, a wired remote, or seek professional support.

With the steps outlined above, you should be back to enjoying your 4K home entertainment system without missing a beat.