How to use buttons on the Apple TV 4K Remote on iPhone

You can use buttons instead of swipe gestures on the Apple TV 4K Remote on iPhone by turning on Directional Buttons.

Last updated: October 19, 2026 7:08 pm

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On the Apple TV 4K Remote on iPhone, you can use buttons instead of swipe gestures. It’s a single accessibility setting called Directional Buttons, and once it’s on, the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone gives you buttons to use from then on.

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Apple TV Remote, then turn on Directional Buttons.

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ByAbigail Shilets

Staff Writer

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Abigail is a staff writer for GeeksChalk based in Pennsylvania. She covers news, how-tos, and user guides for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Before becoming a writer Abigail studied computer science at University and also worked at Apple for more than two years. When not creating masterpiece for GeeksChalk, you can usually find Abigail hiking, climbing, or otherwise unplugged.