Ever since i updated to iOS 26 (also iPadOS) the remote from the control center doesn't find my 3rd gen Apple TV (A1469), so i cannot control it and i have to use a physical remote instead.
I think the update broke the remote for the Apple TV 3.
Apple TV (3rd generation)
Set up the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
The support document still lists Apple TV (3rd generation) [A1427, A1469] as compatible.
Try a (new) reboot for all devices involved, then try again.
The Apple TV (3rd generation) needs a functional physical remote to set up the Apple TV Remote widget in Control Center, as the pairing code has to be filled in on Apple TV (reverse from later models).
If you need further assistance, then I would suggest to contact an expert from the Apple Support staff. Contact Apple for support and service (phone numbers) or start your support request online (chat/email/callback).
Set up the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
The support document still lists Apple TV (3rd generation) [A1427, A1469] as compatible.
Try a (new) reboot for all devices involved, then try again.
The Apple TV (3rd generation) needs a functional physical remote to set up the Apple TV Remote widget in Control Center, as the pairing code has to be filled in on Apple TV (reverse from later models).
If you need further assistance, then I would suggest to contact an expert from the Apple Support staff. Contact Apple for support and service (phone numbers) or start your support request online (chat/email/callback).
Thank you for your reply.
I’ve tried rebooting but the problem is still present.
What happens is that the Apple TV doesn’t show up in the list, so i can’t even start pairing.
Can't control Apple TV 3rd gen (A1469) from the Control Center Remote with iOS 26
