Replacing a lost or broken TV remote can be frustrating, but finding a worthy replacement can be even more so. I recently tested the BN59-01266A voice-enabled replacement remote for Samsung Smart TVs, and I’m here to share my comprehensive review. This replacement promises a seamless user experience with voice control and improved navigation. Let’s dive in and see if it lives up to the hype.

Features

The BN59-01266A boasts several key features designed to enhance your Smart TV experience. The most notable is the voice control function, which allows for hands-free navigation and searching. Beyond voice commands, the remote features a mouse-like pointing system and a wheel for scrolling, providing a level of precision often lacking in standard TV remotes. Dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video offer quick access to your favorite content. The pairing process, while requiring holding down specific buttons, is relatively straightforward. The manufacturer claims the buttons are robust enough for 5,000-8,000 clicks each.

Performance

In my testing, the voice recognition worked surprisingly well, accurately interpreting most of my commands. There were a few instances where it misidentified words, especially when speaking quickly or with a heavy accent. However, overall it proved much more reliable than I expected for a replacement remote. The mouse-like pointing and scrolling wheel proved intuitive and precise, making navigating menus a breeze. Range was impressive; I was able to consistently operate the remote from across my living room (around 10 meters), exceeding the advertised 8 meters. The dedicated app buttons provided instantaneous access to my favorite streaming services, significantly speeding up the process of launching shows and movies.

Button responsiveness was excellent; there was no noticeable lag, confirming the manufacturer’s claims. The pairing process was completed as described in the instructions without significant trouble, though repeating the steps was necessary on one occasion. One point to note: as indicated, the voice function does require an internet connection and is contingent upon compatibility with the original TV’s remote.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Voice control, precise pointing system, dedicated app buttons, good range, responsive buttons.
• Cons: Occasional voice recognition inaccuracies, voice function dependent on internet connection and original remote functionality.

Final Verdict

The BN59-01266A replacement remote offers a significant upgrade over many standard TV remotes. The voice control, while not perfect, adds a level of convenience that is hard to ignore. The intuitive navigation features further enhance the overall user experience. If you’re looking for a reliable and feature-rich replacement for your Samsung Smart TV remote, this is a great option. While the limitations of the voice function are worth noting, the benefits significantly outweigh the drawbacks in my opinion. I would confidently recommend this remote to others seeking an upgrade or replacement.