After weeks of using the Apple TV Remote (2nd generation), model numbers MJFM3, MNC83ZM/A, MNC73, MNC73AM/A, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review. This sleek silver remote promises precise control and seamless Siri integration, but does it deliver on its promises in everyday use? Let’s delve into the details.

The standout feature is undoubtedly the touch-enabled clickpad. It’s incredibly responsive and intuitive for navigating menus, scrolling through lists, and even performing circular gestures to pinpoint specific scenes. The inclusion of Siri voice control is a game-changer, allowing for effortless content searching. The minimalist design is aesthetically pleasing, fitting seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem. The remote also feels solid and well-built in the hand.

In terms of performance, the remote rarely missed a beat. The responsiveness of the clickpad is excellent; even quick swipes and precise clicks were registered accurately. Siri’s voice recognition worked surprisingly well, even in a somewhat noisy environment. The range was impressive, allowing me to control my Apple TV from across the room without any connectivity issues. However, the lack of dedicated buttons for some common functions occasionally required more steps than necessary. For example, adjusting the volume using the touch-sensitive controls is a little less precise than using dedicated buttons.

I tested the remote extensively with various Apple TV apps, including Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+. Navigation and control across all apps were consistently smooth. The circular gesture for scene selection was particularly useful in longer videos, offering a precise way to jump to specific points. Though advertised to work across different Apple devices, the integration with Macs was not as seamless and needed some tweaking to ensure proper responsiveness.

Furthermore, while the remote is designed primarily for media consumption and interacting with the Apple TV ecosystem, its utilization with gaming was somewhat lacking. Using it in multiplayer games is awkward and a traditional controller is recommended.

Pros

• Intuitive touch-enabled clickpad
• Excellent Siri integration
• Sleek and minimalist design
• Reliable connectivity and range
• Precise scene selection through circular gestures

Cons

• Lack of dedicated buttons for some functions
• Less precise volume control using the touch-sensitive elements
• Not ideal for gaming, especially multiplayer scenarios
• Integration with non-Apple TV devices could be more seamless

Overall, the Apple TV Remote (2nd generation) is a significant improvement over its predecessor. The touch-enabled clickpad and Siri integration significantly enhance the user experience. While a few minor shortcomings exist, like the lack of dedicated buttons for certain functions, these are easily overcome. If you’re looking for a stylish and intuitive remote for your Apple TV, this is an excellent choice. I would highly recommend it.