How to Connect Bluetooth to a TCL TV

Many modern TCL TVs come with Bluetooth connectivity. This gives users the opportunity to connect a range of Bluetooth-enabled accessories, like wireless headsets, speakers, or even video game controllers. However, if you haven’t done it before, connecting a device for the first time may seem tricky.

This guide will show you exactly how to connect Bluetooth gadgets to a TCL TV.

How to Add Bluetooth Devices to TCL Android TVs

Whether you want to connect a wireless keyboard, a gamepad, or a speaker to your TCL TV, the process is usually quick and easy. Here are the steps to follow, as long as you have a relatively recent TCL TV with the Android operating system:

1. Press the “Home” button on your remote control.
   
2. Go to the “Settings” menu.
   
3. Find “Remote and Accessories” in the “Settings” and select it.
   
4. Click on “Add Accessory.”
   
5. Your TV will search for local Bluetooth-enabled devices and display them in a list. Make sure your device is switched on and ensure that Bluetooth is enabled so the TV can detect it.
   
6. Find your device in the list and select it, using the arrows and “OK” button on the remote.
   
7. Usually, the device will then connect automatically to the TV. However, depending on the device, you might also need to type in a pairing code to finalize the connection.

How to Add Bluetooth Devices to Older TCL TVs

The method above should work for most TCL TV units. However, if you have an older TV, the Bluetooth connection process may be slightly different.

1. Press the “Home” button on the remote control.
   
2. Find and select the “Settings” menu.
   
3. Click on “Controllers and Bluetooth devices.”
   
4. You can then pick from a list of different device types, like “Game Controllers,” “Amazon Fire TV Remote,” or “Other Bluetooth Devices.”
   
5. Pick the device you wish to add and make sure your device is in pairing mode so it can connect with the TV.
   

How to Add Bluetooth Devices to TCL Roku TVs

If your TCL TV is running on Roku OS, rather than Android, the Bluetooth pairing process is a little different. Some devices may not work with Roku models, but you can follow the steps below to try to pair devices like phones or headsets.

1. Press the “Home” button on your TCL Roku remote control.
   
2. Find the “Settings” menu.
   
3. Click on “Remote & Devices.”
   
4. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on for the device you want to connect.
5. Wait for the TV to detect your device and display it in a list of local Bluetooth devices. Once it appears, you can select it.
   
6. If the device doesn’t appear in the list, click on “Add devices” and follow the on-screen instructions to get connected.
   

Troubleshooting for TCL Bluetooth Connections

Usually, the process to connect Bluetooth devices to TCL TVs is speedy and seamless. However, you may have some issues when pairing a device for the first time or using your Bluetooth devices with the TV. Here are some common ways to fix faulty Bluetooth connections.

Make Sure Pairing Mode Is Enabled

If your Bluetooth device doesn’t appear in the list of available devices, it might not be switched on correctly or be in pairing mode. Many Bluetooth devices have a small button that you may need to press and hold to activate the pairing mode.

Verify that your device is switched on and has enough battery. And make sure to put it into pairing mode. Consult your device’s user manual if you’re not sure how to enter pairing mode.

Power Cycle Your Device

If your device still won’t connect, even with pairing mode enabled and no obvious problems, it might need a quick power cycle. This is when you turn your device off and then back on again to effectively reboot it and resolve any little bugs or issues.

• Turn your device off.
• Wait for a minute.
• Turn it back on and enter pairing mode.

Power Cycle Your TV

There’s also a possibility that your device is fine, but your TV has a problem. In that case, you may want to do a quick power cycle of the TCL TV.

• Turn off the TV.
• Unplug it.
• Wait for a full minute.
• Press and hold the TV’s power button for a few seconds. This drains away any residual power.
• Plug the unit back in and switch it on. Then try connecting again.

Make Sure the Connection Isn’t Blocked

Bluetooth doesn’t have the same long range as Wi-Fi. So, when pairing devices via Bluetooth, you need them to be quite close together, in the same room. It also helps to make sure that there aren’t any obstacles or blockages between the device and the TV.

During the pairing process, try to ensure that your device is as close to the TV as possible. This will help to keep the connection strong. Make sure that nothing is in the way, like bulky items of furniture which could block the signal.

Check That Your Device Isn’t Connected to Something Else

One final problem which could interfere with the connection process is if your Bluetooth device is already connected to something else. For example, you might have connected your wireless headset to your PC in the past and now want to connect it to the TV.

When you turn the headset on, it may automatically connect with the PC, so it won’t appear in the list of available devices on your TV. Usually, you can fix this by simply entering pairing mode. Otherwise, you may have to temporarily turn off any other devices that your Bluetooth gadget is connected to.

FAQs

What kinds of devices can I connect via Bluetooth?

Depending on the age, model, and operating system of your TCL TV, you may be able to connect a wide range of Bluetooth devices. This includes Bluetooth speakers to enjoy better audio with movies and TV shows, wireless headsets, and video game controllers. It’s also often possible to connect wireless keyboards and mouses to your TV to help with navigating the menus more quickly and easily.

What if I can’t find the Bluetooth option in the settings?

If you don’t see anything related to Bluetooth in your TV’s settings, it’s likely that your TV doesn’t support Bluetooth connectivity. While most new TCL TVs come with Bluetooth support, certain older models and some new ones still don’t have it. In that case, you won’t be able to connect Bluetooth devices, unless you buy and set-up a separate Bluetooth dongle or receiver.

Connect Bluetooth Accessories to Your TCL TV with Ease

Connecting Bluetooth gadgets to TCL TVs is generally a straightforward process. With just a few quick presses of your remote control, you can connect speakers, headsets, and more. If the connection won’t work, try the troubleshooting steps outlined above or contact TCL support for more help.

Have you connected any Bluetooth devices to your TCL TV? Do you have any tips or tricks to help out when a device just won’t connect? Let us know in the comments section below.