Do you want to know how to control Roku with Harmony remote? If you got a Roku player and want to connect it with your Harmony remote, we can help you.
All Roku streaming sticks work with Harmony IR-based remotes. In fact, they are only compatible with hub-based products.
Once you set them up, you can control all your Roku devices and create unique Roku activities. The setup is easy, too.
First, to control your Roku with a Harmony Remote, download and install the Harmony App. Then, add your device to the app to start using it. Once added, Harmony will prompt you to customize remote features and select your favorite channel.
Before we discuss the steps in integrating your Roku with your Harmony Remote, you need to know how Harmony Hub works with Roku devices.
Does Harmony Hub Work with Roku
Harmony Remotes from the company Logitech are perfectly compatible with Roku devices.
You will need a special remote if you have a Roku Streaming Stick because it does not have IR capabilities. Other Roku products can be used with a Harmony Hub, though.
Device Compatibility
Harmony Hub remotes are compatible with all Roku devices because they are WiFi capable. They can directly interact with one another, allowing you to customize controls.
Smart Home Features
Harmony Hubs can control smart home features, such as smart thermostats, lights, etc. You can even integrate the remote with Alexa to control your Roku with the sound of your voice.
Control With The App
Harmony Hub remotes can control all Roku devices using the Harmony app. You can use gestures to control your activity and display your favorite channels for easy switching.
Easy Setup Process
Thanks to the Harmony app, adding your Roky device to your Harmony setup is easy.
Now that you know how Harmony Hub works with Roku, we can move on to the steps on how to control your device with the Harmony remote.
Read on for more in-depth instructions.
How to Control Roku with Harmony Remote – Easy Steps
Logitech’s Harmony remotes come with a Hub that allows you to communicate with your devices, even when you’re not home.
They let you control multiple devices simultaneously, so you only need to use a single remote.
You’ll also be able to access all of your Roku’s features including access to the different apps you can install on the streaming device.
Additionally, Harmony remotes are easy to set up. Let’s take a quick look at getting your Roku setup with your Harmony remote.
Step #1: Download and Install the Harmony App
The easiest way to go about Roku with Harmony remote setup is by downloading the associated Harmony app.
If you have the Harmony Hub, you will also need to make sure that they are paired together.
Once you have installed the app and set up with the hub, it’s just a few on-screen instructions, and then you can select your remote.
After this, you should be able to start the process of setting it up with your Roku so you can control it with your Harmony remote.
Here’s how to install and set up the Harmony app:
- Get the Harmony app from your device’s app store.
- Turn on the Bluetooth on your phone.
- Connect your phone to your home’s WiFi network.
- Power up the Harmony Hub, then select Set Up a New Hub.
- Select the network you want to connect your hub to.
Note: From here, you can add devices, create activities, and make changes to your configuration.
Step #2: Add Your Roku to the Harmony App
Now that you have the Harmony app and hub all set up, you can now start adding your Roku.
It’s a quick process and you’ll only need access to your phone with the Harmony app installed.
You will be able to configure everything from there including your Roku installation.
Follow the instructions below for both mobile and desktop.
Mobile Phone
- Tap Menu, then select Harmony Setup.
- Choose Add/Edit Devices & Activities.
- Tap Devices.
- Select Add Device.
- Tap Scan for WiFi Devices.
Harmony will search for Roku devices on your home network. Choose the device you want to add.
Desktop
- Tap Devices.
- Select Scan for devices.
- You will be prompted to connect your Harmony to your PC with a USB cable.
Note: Harmony will scan for the WiFi network. Make sure that your Roku and Harmony Hub are connected to the same network.
Step #3: How to Add Multiple Roku Devices to Your Harmony App
The Harmony Hub is based on the concept of Activities, which sets the power and input for all devices the Hub controls.
If you have multiple devices and Rokus in your home, you will be able to integrate them into your Harmony system.
Here’s how you can add multiple Roku devices to your Harmony app:
- Go to Devices and click Add Device.
- Set your Roku device from the dropdown list.
- Set Roku as the Manufacturer.
- Enter the model number, then click Next.
- When you see your device, click Next again.
Note: Rename your devices, click Save, and done. Now, repeat the process to add your other Roku devices.
Step #4: Create an Activity on your Harmony App
Once you’ve finished adding your devices, Harmony will prompt you to create Activities on your app.
You may have multiple activities that launch various channels. Activities allow you to clump together similar commands and actions that will streamline your experience.
Here’s how to do it.
- Select the Activities tab found on the left side of your screen.
- Tap the Add Activity button.
- Choose the Watch Roku activity type, then tap Next.
- Continue by answering the questions to create your activity.
Note: Remember to sync your remote after making some changes.
Step #5: Start Using Your Harmony Remote with Roku
After you’re done building Activities, Harmony will prompt your to select your favorite channel.
To edit the starting channel, select the Activity. Next, click Starting Channel. The chosen starting channel will always start the app.
For instance, you can choose the Weather Channel to start your Morning Activity or open the YouTube app for your Entertainment Activity.
Then, you can start using your Harmony Remote with Roku. Here’s a list of things you can do:
- Adjust the physical buttons on your remote.
- Customize app buttons.
- Add, remove, or rename commands.
- Set your own Swipe gestures.
- Use Voice and Text for text input.
Note: Harmony Hub connects to your Roku device through your home’s network. This allows you to use your Harmony-based remote or app as a Hub.
If your Harmony Hub is not working with your Roku device, try rebooting it. Disconnect the power cable and wait for 10 seconds. Reconnect the power again, and check if this clears the issue.
If this does not work, try updating your devices. This will eliminate network connectivity-related problems.
Read Next: Harmony Remote Not Controlling DirecTV? – (Fixed)
Bottom Line
Now you know how to control Roku with Harmony remote. Whether you are adding one Roku or multiple devices, we got you covered.
Our simple guide can help you, from downloading the app to using the remote.
If you encounter issues with the connection, reboot your Harmony Remote and Roku device. You can also update them to eliminate bugs and glitches.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.