Amazon Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote Pro (newest model) with remote finder, TV controls, and backlit buttons

So one of my crazy cats knocked my remote off the counter and was throwing it all over the place playing with it. Somehow the internal microphone must have broken as it no longer responded to voice commands (everything else worked fine). I picked up one of those super cheap ($6) no name remotes that supposedly works with my fire cube (the pop-up message stated that it works with all my fire devices). It did technically work for simple commands but none of the multi-button press shortcuts worked. I use “voice view” amazons built in screen reader for the blind. There are many times when that feature needs to be toggled on or off and the easiest way is by pressing and holding down the “back” and “menu” buttons simultaneously for a few seconds. Anyway, it seems that only the legit Amazon branded remotes can perform these tasks. So I had to order up this one as it was n sale for less than the basic version at the time (still pricy considering that for a few dollars more you can get a fire stick and remote).This remote pairs instantly, much faster and easier than with the no name remotes. As soon as it paired, it immediately asked to update the remotes software so I did. It also immediately generated an Alexa app message on my phone that a new device was found. I’ve never had that happen with a remote before. Ends up that’s part of the “find remote” feature that this remote has. It’s also backlit which is nice. With an Amazon branded remote everything, including the multi-button shortcuts work flawlessly. The only thing that I miss (having low vision) was the colored app buttons as those were easily identifiable. These buttons have the app name printed over a standard black button. At least the microphone button is still colored blue so I know which way is up at a glance.

Ok, I have had this remote now for a good few months and I gotta say, I haven’t ran across any issues what so ever. The voice function works good. The (find my remote) alarm works great. And that function alone is worth buying this thing. These little fire remotes always seem to get lost. They can slide down in couch cushions, get wrapped up in blankets, fall behind beds, or just misplaced in general. So having the ability to ask Alexa where the remote is and she turns on an alarm on the remote itself so you can track it down is perfect. This remote also has back lit keys so you won’t be fumbling around in a dark room trying to make sure you’re hitting the correct buttons. Now the lighted keys only turn on when your fingers brush over the keys. So I’m sure that helps out with battery life, however, this is the only issue I have came across that does put a damper on the remote, is that this thing will drink up batteries very quickly. Not sure how often you will be using your remote, but I can drain a set of triple AAAs in a couple weeks in this remote. Now I shouldn’t have to tell you that batteries in remotes can last for many many months. I have even had some that last for over a year. So when I blow through a set in 2 weeks, you know it’s gonna start costing you. I decided to order a couple sets of rechargeable batteries so I always have a good set to toss in. One thing to note here is if you just leave your remote sitting on your couch or in your bed, some items coming into contact by brushing up against the keys, can cause the lighted keys to turn on. Now this is another reason the batteries can die out more quickly. All in all, looking past these personal things, I still think this remote deserves a 5 star rating. It is definitely better than the old stock remotes that came with the old sticks and cubes. And the added blank buttons that allow you to program in what apps you want to open for personalization is a game changer. Do I think this remote is a bit overpriced? Yes. But like most things, if you really want it, you pay the price. Would i suggest this to others? Yes. And I already have gotten a few of my friends to upgrade to this remote. They dig it also. Just make sure that if you buy a cover for this, that it is the correct cover to fit this remote specifically. Covers for the other fire remotes will not fit this one as they are about a half inch different in length, and the button layouts are different. I do hope this review helps some of you out trying to decide if this is worth buying.

Update #2:I received the replacement remote today. After installing the batteries and pressing the home button, I navigated to the menu on the Fire Stick to add a remote. It immediately found the remote and paired. Total setup time was under 15 seconds.When I ask Alexa where my remote is, the remote starts beeping as intended. The tone isn't super loud, but it should help locate the remote as intended unless it's under a cushion. The tone almost sounds like the Universal Studios intro.The custom buttons are also super easy to setup. My overall impression of the remote itself after finally receiving it... Is 5 out of 5. It works exactly as intended, and was super easy to setup (once I received a working unit). I only wish the replacement process has been smoother, but it worked out in the end. While I would take off a star because of the initial experience, the product is what I'm rating. And yes, I would certainly recommend this product to others.Update #1:After writing my initial review, Amazon customer service contacted me in hopes of reaching a resolution. They apologized for the confusion with the experts, and were very friendly and understanding. While they were not able to "send a replacement" directly, they agreed to issue the refund immediately, and told me to keep, donate, or dispose of the current remote. I opted to have the refund credited as a gift card, so I could immediately place a new order and apply the gift card, which I did. The new remote should arrive by Saturday. I will provide additional updates on the product one I receive it and finally get to test its features.Initial Review:I ordered this remote to replace a lost remote. By the time it arrived, the original FireTV Stick 4K was bricked, and they could not fix it. I ordered a NEW FireTV Stick 4K during Black Friday, and got it set up tonight without a hitch.Once it was setup, I attempted to pair this Remote Pro with my new FireTV Stick 4K (3rd Gen). Despite repeated attempted holding the Home button down, it would never connect. Long story short, I've now spent 1 hour and 40 minutes on two phone calls, being transferred to 6 different representatives. I've factory reset my remote pro 4 times, changed batteries, unplugged the FireTV Stick, and done everything but dance.... Everything the customer service "experts" advised. The first FireTV "expert" told me there wasn't even an option to add another remote in the settings (?!? Settings.... Controllers and Bluetooth Devices). Then I spoke to another "expert" who told me the Remote Pro wasn't compatible with Fire TV Stick, despite its compatibility page listing 5 types of Fire TV Sticks it's compatible with.After finally having tech support agree it was likely an RMA.... they refused to send a replacement, as it was not in Amazon's policy to do so. The only option would be to send it back, wait days for it to be received, so they can process the refund, wait for it to show a credit, and then I get to spend the money on the remote again and hope for the best.I've been an Amazon Prime customer for years, and I've had great experiences 95% of the time.... But this is by far the worst experience I've ever had with them. I think the product page sounds great for this product, and I understand RMAs happen... That's all fine. I get it. But to go through nearly three total hours just trying to get a remote paired or replaced has me questioning if it's worth it in the first place. Perhaps if I ever get a working Remote Pro, I'll be glad to update my rating.