How to Connect AirPods to a Vizio TV: 2 Methods

The Apple brand developed AirPods to help maximize communication and entertainment experience. While AirPods can pair with Bluetooth output devices, how about connecting it with a non-Apple product, like your Vizio TV? Is this possible? 

Luckily, you can do so! Our technicians will explain the steps on how to connect Airpods to a Vizio TV seamlessly. 

Method #1: Using Bluetooth

Bluetooth devices have different Bluetooth codecs. The Apple AirPods use AAC/SBC, whereas Vizio TVs utilize Bluetooth LE codec. Bluetooth LE may be a problem once you should want to connect these devices. 

These different Bluetooth codecs are something you should bear in mind if you plan to connect your Apple device to your Vizio television. 

There are two ways to go about it. First, you can use a transmitter or pair your device directly. Check if your TVs can connect Bluetooth headphones. A Bluetooth transmitter can help you address this concern. It can transmit audio faster. 

It’s possible to connect AirPods to Vizio TV by using output devices such as a Bluetooth transmitter. There is a number of Bluetooth transmitters available in the market today that you can use to set up your Apple AirPods. 

Under the conditions of the model of the Bluetooth transmitter, connect it to the Vizio TV via a coaxial port, optical, auxiliary, or RCA. Proceed to turn ON the unit and pair it with your AirPods. Make sure that other devices nearby have their Bluetooth turned OFF. 

Method #2: Connect Thru Apple TV

Another inexpensive alternative for connecting AirPods to Vizio TV is through Apple TV. Here are the steps to make the connection successful between your Apple Airpods and TV. 

1. Press down the button found behind the AirPods charging case. 
2. Press it until you can observe a flashing white light. 
3. Looking at your Apple TV, manipulate the Menu and go to Settings Remotes and Devices Bluetooth. 
4. Look for the name of your Apple AirPods, which should be reflected on the screen of the Apple TV to complete this pairing process. 
5. Check your AirPods if it has successfully paired with your Apple TV. 
6. This should work on your AirPod Pro and Max versions. 

Important Reminders When Connecting Your Airpods to a Vizio TV

Learning to connect your AirPods to your Vizio television is important to maximize the entertainment experience. However, here are some reminders before you attempt to connect AirPods to Vizio TV. 

Check if you have built-in Bluetooth enabled on your devices. Furthermore, check if you have placed devices into pairing mode. Furthermore, make sure that the AirPods charging case has enough battery. 

Make sure that the audio wire is securely connected to the TV audio out port. Manipulate the volume to the highest level on the headphones and adjust accordingly using the volume control on the headphones. 

When using a headset while watching tv you will experience audio lag that’ll make the experience unsatisfactory. There are many reasons that can create lag. It could be due to the fact that the audio is processed faster than the video. 

The ultimate solution for this noticeable audio lag is to disable video processing settings. 

How to Troubleshoot Bluetooth Connection Issues

You can troubleshoot connection issues by running the Bluetooth capability troubleshooter. Look for Start, then navigate to the TV Bluetooth Settings, then choose Update & Security, and finally select Troubleshoot. 

Under the option find and fix other problems, select Bluetooth and run the troubleshooter. Follow the instructions that will be flashed on the screen. 

How Do I Connect Other Bluetooth Headphones to a Vizio TV?

Aside from AirPods [1], you can also connect another Bluetooth device, such as a headset, to a Vizio TV. 

Make sure to check that the TV supports Bluetooth. In addition, check the user manual first before attempting to proceed with this process. 

1. Take out your Bluetooth wireless headphones and put it in pairing mode. The process is different for every brand of headset, so make sure to check the manual. 
2. Using your Vizio TV remote control, go to the Menu and look for SETTINGS
3. Select SOUND OUTPUT, then choose SPEAKER LIST, SEARCH & SELECT the headphones that you want to connect, then PAIR & CONNECT. 
4. Always refer to the user’s manual for further details

Infrared Connection

You may also connect via an infrared connection. However, this connection is used for short-range connections only. Here are the simple steps for a successful connection:

1. Remove any obstruction that can come between your headphones and television.
2. Align your headset to your new Vizio TV.  

How Do I Connect Wired Headphones to a Vizio TV?

You can connect wired headphones to a Vizio TV. Here’s how:

1. Get your headsets
2. On your Vizio television set, locate the 3.5 mm jack at the back of your television. 
3. Connect the wires of your headphones to the jack. 

FAQ

How do I know if my Vizio Smart TV has Bluetooth?

You can check if your Smart TV if it has a Bluetooth option by checking the TV settings menu. You can check the menu SETTINGS and look for sound output.  

Why won’t my Vizio TV locate my Bluetooth headphones?

There are several reasons why the Vizio TV cannot locate your headsets and one of which could be that this feature is disabled from your device. For any difficulty or issue you may encounter, always refer to the user’s manual. 

Conclusion

It’s a wonderful feeling when your gadgets and their accessories work well with each other, especially if you have Apple devices and non-Apple ones in your home. 

Now that you know how to connect your AirPods to Vizio TV through a Bluetooth transmitter and Apple TV, you can now entertain yourself without the concerns of getting caught in wires as you move around.   

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How to Connect Your Vizio Soundbar to a TV Without a Remote

Want to watch a movie at home but can’t find the soundbar remote to set it up? That’s frustrating, but don’t give up just yet. 

We’ll walk you through the different options on how to connect your Vizio soundbar to the TV without a remote. It’ll require a few more steps, but it’s better than settling for your television’s native speakers that are subpar!

Method #1: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using HDMI Cable

Most devices support HDMI ARC, including your own Vizio soundbar. TVs also typically have several HDMI ports. 

It’s also the most ideal because you only need an HDMI cord that’s already capable of delivering a high data transfer rate and reversible digital audio signals. 

Step #1: Choose an Appropriate HDMI Cable

You don’t need a Vizio TV for your soundbar to work this way. All it takes is a functional HDMI cable that’s already provided in your purchase. 

If you happen to lose it, just like your Vizio soundbar remote, you can use your spare HDMI cables or purchase a new one.

Step #2: Plug the Cord Into the TV and Soundbar

Take one end of the HDMI cable to connect to the HDMI port on your Vizio sound bar. Connect the other end of the cord to your TV’s HDMI port, which is typically located at the back.

Step #3: Start Both Devices

The original packaging should also come with a power cable. Take the cord, connect it to your Vizio sound bar, and then plug it into a power outlet. Afterward, press the power switch on both the TV and the soundbar.

Step #4: Tweak the Input Settings

With the Vizio soundbar switched on, locate the input button, which is usually third on the device. Press the button and change the setting to “HDMI” to adjust the audio input settings.

Step #5: Tweak the Output Settings

You need to change the audio settings of your smart TV to stream sound to your Vizio soundbar instead of the TV speaker. Do this by locating settings and changing the audio output to HDMI.

You can also control your soundbar through a smart TV remote by simply enabling HDMI CEC control.

Method #2: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using RCA Cable

Your next option is to connect your Vizio soundbar to your TV without a remote through an RCA or analog cable. RCA cables are still widely supported but not as reliable compared to connecting a Vizio soundbar through HDMI. 

Step #1: Choose an RCA Cable

Vizio soundbars also come with RCA cables, but if you have spares from an older soundbar model or TV, then those should also work. These are easy to spot as they usually come in conjoined red and white cables.

Step #2: Plug the AV Cord on Your TV’s Audio Out Ports

Connect the Vizio soundbar to the TV by locating the RCA ports labeled “Audio Out” behind your smart TV. These are adjacent ports that say right (R) and left (L). 

The colors are often red and white, which means you should insert the red cable into the red port and the white cable into the other. 

Step #3: Plug Other Ends on the Audio In and AUX Ports

On your Vizio sound bar, there should be two audio ports labeled either “AUX” or “Audio In”. Using the colors or labels as a guide, connect the Vizio soundbar to the TV by inserting the RCA cables into the TV plug.

Step #4: Start Your TV and Soundbar

After successfully connecting the Vizio soundbar to the TV without a remote through the RCA port, make sure that both devices are plugged into a power outlet through a power cable. Switch them on to proceed to the next step.

Step #5: Select AV and AUX as the Input Method

Find the input button on your soundbar to access the Vizio menu bar. Use the pointer keys to change the input setting on the audio option to AV or AUX.

Step #6: Select Audio and Disable Your TV Speakers

The sound output should be through the soundbar already, but ideally, there should be no interference from the TV speakers. Do this through the menu key and go to “Audio” on the settings.

Step #7: Change the Analog Audio Out Function

Make the most out of your soundbar — it is capable of a multi-channel audio output. You can have the best viewing experience by changing the Audio Out to Dolby Digital.

Method #3: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using Optical Cable or SPDIF Cable

You have another option: connect Vizio soundbar to the TV through an optical cable. 

Holding the SPDIF cable [1], take one end to insert into the optical port on the TV and the other to the Vizio soundbar. 

After ensuring that both devices are connected to the power port, turn on the TV. go to settings, open “Audio,” and then “Sound Out”. Select SPDIF among the options provided.

Method #4: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using Bluetooth

You can also use Bluetooth connection to connect a Vizio soundbar to TV without a remote.

With both devices powered up, find and press the Bluetooth button on your soundbar to enable pairing mode on the device. 

Make sure your TV has the Bluetooth feature turned on and is discoverable to connect a Vizio soundbar to your TV. 

How to Fix a Broken Remote Control

If you have your Vizio remote but can’t use it for some reason, here are some suggestions on how to fix it:

Try to Install Fresh Batteries

Sometimes, the problem isn’t your remote — it’s the batteries. Whether they’re run out of juice or stopped functioning in any way, it’s worth a shot replacing them with fresh batteries.

Remove Obstructions to the IR Sensor

Are you using the remote too far from the soundbar? Do your devices have a clear line between them? Distance and other obstructions can get in the way of your soundbar IR sensor from working.

Reset the Soundbar

Resetting your device is usually the first step when troubleshooting. Do this by unplugging the soundbar, pressing the power button for 30 seconds, and then plugging the device back in.

Reset the Remote

The same applies to your remote. To reset, take the batteries off them, press every button twice, and then reinsert the batteries to test.

Alternative: Universal Remote Control

If you really can’t locate your remote or it just simply gave up on you, there are always universal remotes. Programming your universal remote manually will depend on the brand and model. 

On the plus side, a universal remote is pretty versatile — it will work with all remote-controlled devices. 

Where Should I Place My Vizio Soundbar? (Best Locations)

It’s best to keep your soundbar close to the TV, especially if you’re working with optical cables or plan to have an HDMI plugged in. 

The most ideal positions are directly below or mounted above the device.

Conclusion

You have multiple options if you want to connect your Vizio soundbar to the TV without a remote and still enjoy the exceptional sound quality. 

Thankfully, most methods as such still come with your purchase, so there’s no need to go out and buy new cables. They also won’t take up much of your time.

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Where is the Menu Button on My Vizio Remote?

If you own a VIZIO smart TV, you must have noticed a glaring absence — the menu button is missing! 

We understand the resulting inconvenience and frustration, but don’t toss or return your device just yet! In this article, our TV technicians will help you find where the menu button is on your VIZIO remote.

What Does the Vizio Remote Menu Button Look Like?

The menu button on newer VIZIO remotes is usually symbolized by a gear wheel icon or the word “MENU” in all caps.

For others, the answer is less obvious: you’ll have to press both the “Input” and “Volume Down” buttons to access the menu. Holding the two buttons simultaneously for a few seconds will prompt a banner with the menu settings to appear on your screen.

Why Isn’t There a Menu Button on My Vizio TV Remote?

If the menu button is missing from your remote, then you probably possess an older version. Remotes manufactured during the early 2010s usually do not have a menu button. The brand has since updated the design of remotes for their smart TVs.

Alternative Ways to Control Your Vizio TV

Thankfully, you have other options that allow access to the menu even with an outdated remote. Here are some of our team’s recommendations:

TV Buttons

You can always get up and access the menu button on your VIZIO Smart TV. It would depend on the model, but usually, the button can be found in front of the TV, towards the bottom section. Occasionally, the buttons are on the back or sides of the device.

SmartCast

If standing up is too much trouble, you can also control your TV through your phone. You’ll need to install SmartCast, available for both Android and iOS devices. 

Just make sure that your phone and TV are connected to the internet and that the firmware is updated to the latest version.

On the app, find your device and tap the gear icon next to it. Doing so will open the menu that allows you to configure your TV’s settings. Every change is reflected on your TV, so long as your app is updated.

Voice Commands Thru Chromecast

If you have a Chromecast or use Google Home, then here’s another option that could render your remote obsolete.

For this to work, you have to pair Chromecast or Google Home to your VIZIO Smart TV. Once that’s set up, you can control your device with the use of voice commands.

Mobile App

Controlling your TV from your smartphone isn’t limited to using Smartcast. If your device supports an infrared (IR) blaster [1], you can install a universal remote app that lets you adjust TV settings through your phone. 

This option needs further configuration, though, which will depend on the installed mobile app. 

Not sure if your phone has an IR blaster? Our professionals suggest checking device specifications or user manuals online.

Use a New Vizio TV Remote

While using smartphones is convenient, it’s not for everybody. If you’re the type to want a separate device, you can always purchase a new VIZIO TV remote. Remotes manufactured post-2012 feature menu buttons and work perfectly with all VIZIO products.

This alternative is also ideal for customers who want to keep the setup as simple as possible.

Program a Universal TV Remote

VIZIO Smart TVs also work with universal remotes, which widens your options even more. What’s great is that you can use them on multiple devices regardless if they’re from VIZIO or not. 

Depending on the product, the buttons can come pre-configured or need further programming. 

To pair your TV to your remote, you have to turn on your TV, press and hold the TV or device button until the LED blinks twice, and input the programming code from your remote. 

The number is provided by the manufacturer — our team recommends going through the manual or support page for your device.

When to Contact Vizio Support

If any of the methods provided affect display quality or other TV features, you can always contact VIZIO’s customer support. You can do so through SMS, toll-free calls, or a live agent chat accessible through their website.

FAQ

How do I reset my Vizio TV without the menu button?

To reset your VIZIO TV without the menu button, you’ll have to power off and unplug your device. After a minute, press and hold the power button usually at the back for 30 seconds. 

Afterwards, plug back the cord and turn on the TV. Alternatively, you can also use the SmartCast app.

Conclusion

Lacking any basic features on a remote like a menu button can be a real inconvenience. Fortunately, you’re not limited in your options if you can’t find where the menu button is on your VIZIO remote. 

The manufacturer’s customer support is also available in case of any issues, whether they’re related to the configuration of your smart TV or not. 

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How to Turn Off Voice on a Vizio TV

The latest Vizio TV models not only provide crisp images and good sound quality but a narration feature as well. However, it can come with some issues, including continuous narration. 

If you want to know how to turn off this voice on a Vizio TV, our TV techs are here to detail the steps:

Why is My Vizio TV Talking to Me?

Vizio TV narration is the technical term for when your Vizio smart TV is talking to you. The main reason for this may be due to the possibility that you have activated the Talk Back feature. 

The Vizio company expanded all the accessibility features in their television starting 2017. Among the advanced accessibility features and tools include one that will aid individuals who have visual and hearing impairments. 

Talk Back is one of the features added to the television. However, this feature works with the audio description that is being displayed by the television on its own. Furthermore, Vizio television narrations will not work with cables, streaming applications, or satellite boxes. 

Once in a while accidentally turning on this feature does happen. Not all television programs support or enable audio description.  

What is Vizio’s Voice Assistant?

A Vizio’s Voice Assistant is also known as virtual assistant software that allows you to use the unit remotely. The different commands can be given through the voice narrator. Furthermore, the device creates a voice response too. This aids those that have visual impairments. 

This system function allows the user to follow TV programs easily. 

Talk Back, Conversation Level, and Zoom Mode

These are more advanced accessibility features that you can find on your Vizio smart TV. These advanced accessibility tools can easily be accessed on your television unit. 

How to Disable and Enable the Accessibility Features (For Older TVs)

Learning how to turn off the voice on feature of a Vizio TV is not that difficult. Follow these easy steps to disable/enable or turn accessibility features ON in Vizio TV units made before 2017:

1. Look for the Vizio TV MENU button on the Vizio remote control
2. Choose the SYSTEM option by using the remote control’s arrow buttons. Then, press the OK button
3. Choose the ACCESSIBILITY function and then enable or disable the feature that suits your preference
4. Then choose EXIT to confirm the settings

There are many accessibility features which include Closed captioning, Speech rate, Talk back, and Zoom mode functions. These settings can easily be located in the System tab then settings.

Voice Guidance

Look for the TALK BACK accessibility feature and select it to turn it ON. You can select it again if you decide to turn it OFF. 

The talkback feature or voice guidance feature narrates out loud the text displayed on the screen. This function is also recognized by others as a text to speech function. It is commonly known as voice guidance because it guides the viewer through the Vizio UI. 

You can activate voice guidance especially when you are watching many TV channels or watching ESPN, watching fox sports, and other applications, once enabled, the talkback feature will narrate out loud the captions reflected on the screen. 

Sometimes this feature may not work especially on streaming applications like Netflix or even Amazon prime video. There are other applications that do not support this feature. Make sure to know what these are before keeping your hopes up on using this feature. 

Zoom Mode

This mode feature enlarges the text size flashed on the screen and does not toggle the aspect ratio. This feature may not also work on certain streaming applications like Netflix and Amazon prime. 

Speech Rate

This specific feature works in association with the talk back feature. The talk back feature of the television controls how fast or slow it will be. The options for this feature include slow, normal, or fast. 

Closed Captioning

The closed captioning feature can be accessed through the Accessibility settings on the first menu text on the user interface. The closed captioning feature is available to Vizio television units that come with a built-in tuner. 

The majority of television shows have closed captioning embedded within its code and are sent via cable box, satellite, and airwaves [1]. Certain TV programs like Youtube do not support Vizio close captioning but will have a subtitle version of their own. 

If you find that the subtitles are lagging a bit this may be due to the content provider. Text sizes and the volume of the talk back function, on the other hand, can be manipulated through the accessibility options. 

How to Disable the Narrator on My Vizio Unit (For New TVs)

Here are a few steps to disable the narrator on newer models of Vizio television units. 

Step 1: Turn ON the television to activate your unit

Step 2: Look at the Vizio menus and navigate to the system options and select this option. 

Step 3: Look for the accessibility section and press enter.

Step 4: Find the TALK BACK option from the drop down menu and turn it OFF

Step 5: Save the changes you have made

What Should I Do When the Narrator Does Not Turn Off?

A number of Vizio TV owners have reported that the Vizio TV narrating feature fails to turn OFF. There are some reasons that can explain this. However, a simple reset might help you resolve this issue. 

All of your custom settings will be lost once you reset TV to factory settings. You will need to configure them again one by one once you have successfully factory reset the unit. 

Can I Activate the Voice Guidance Feature Accidently?

You can activate the voice guidance feature accidentally on your Vizio TV. This can happen when you accidentally press the MENU button as well as other buttons to activate the TALK BACK feature. This can also be referred to as pocket dialing. 

This usually happens with universal remote controls. 

FAQ

What does “SAP” do on Vizio TVs?

SAP is the acronym for Secondary Audio Programming. This television feature serves non-English speaking viewers. SAP is an audio stream which is programmed in the Vizio smart TV that can make you listen to the show in another language. 

Conclusion

Owning a Vizio television unit is worth every penny. It’s made from premium materials and has advanced features including the voice narration. 

However, if you accidentally enabled this feature and do not know how to turn it off, just refer to the steps above. Knowing how to turn off voice on Vizio TV will save you a lot of trouble and a trip to the official service centers. 

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How to Turn on HDR on Vizio E-Series TVs

Enjoying your favorite movies or series on Vizio E-Series is now more pleasurable, thanks to the HDR feature. With this option, you get the best viewing experience, with life-like visuals and fast refresh rates. 

 

If you’re unsure how to enable this feature, our TV techs will show you how to turn on HDR on a Vizio E-Series TV.

HDR Support, Explained

 

HDR, also known as High Dynamic Range, is a jargon used for the 4K TV market. You might be familiar with HDR as a filter on mobile phones among others. The idea of HDR came from photography. This setting increases the dynamic range and contrast between blacks and whites. 

 

HDR renders a more realistic picture of the images on the screen by adjusting the contrast between the dark and bright areas. To achieve HDR on the television you simply need to turn it ON.  

How Do I Turn on 4K on my VIZIO E Series?

Learning how to turn on the HDR can help you maximize entertainment. First and foremost, the majority of 4K televisions are capable of supporting three types of HDR. 

 

These different HDR types are HLG, Dolby Vision, and HDR10. To achieve crisp imagery and increased contrast you need to turn ON one of these. However, for HDR to work you need to have 4K content. 

 

Here are the steps to turn on 4K on your Vizio E series:

 

Step 1: Download the Smartcast to your mobile phone, whether iOS or Android, from the app store. 

Step 2: Proceed to activate the downloaded Smartcast app

Step 3: Proceed to the settings

Step 4: Look for the Inputs tab and choose the HDMI Color Subsampling option

Step 5: Activate the HDR found on the HDMI input which is connected to an external device

 

Bear in mind that these steps will only work when an external device has been connected to an HDMI port on your Vizio television. Make sure to connect the HDMI cable to the port before proceeding with these steps. 

Alternative Method

If you do not like to download applications online or use your mobile phone there is an alternative method. Follow these steps to switch on the 4K on your Vizio television: 

 

Step #1: Locate the HDMI port that supports and allows HDR on your television unit. All HDMI ports of a 4K TV support it. It is also best to read the manufacturer’s manual to help you locate the HDMI port. 

 

Vizio states that the 2016 and 2017 D, E, and M-series models are capable of supporting HDR content through HDMI port 1.  

 

If you are an owner of the latest Vizio television models there are chances that these models belong to the P-series or a later one. In models like these, all the HDMI ports are capable of supporting HDR content aside from HDMI 5.  

 

Step #2: After securely connecting your preferred content streaming program to an HDMI port, proceed to select the MENU option on your remote control. Choose INPUT SETTINGS and then proceed to choose the HDMI port where your device is connected.

 

You can now finally turn the Full UHD color option ON. Once you have followed these steps, you now have enabled the HDR on your very own 4K [1] television.

Other Important Picture Settings

There are other equally important picture settings found on your Vizio 4K television. You can easily manipulate these settings to adjust to your preference and entertainment needs. You can explore the picture settings to look for more features. 

 

This section can also control the backlighting, contrast, as well as brightness to attune to your preference. The Film picture mode feature will lessen the wobbling of the images on the screen. 

 

The Game low latency setting will also cut the input lag. This feature will really benefit TV owners who often play games. If you are fond of connecting your computer or laptop to your television then we recommend you turn on the computer picture mode. 

Things to Watch in HDR

HDR is growing in popularity as well as in usage. Using HDR on your Vizio TV, you can enjoy movies and series on subscription applications such as Amazon, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Netflix.  

Conclusion

Owning a Vizio television can bring entertainment and information to you and your family. Now that you know how to turn on HDR on your Vizio E-Series, you can unlock visual possibilities, especially in the realm of entertainment. 

We hope that this article has helped you further enjoy your movies and series under the HDR lens!

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