Everyday control

Customize the star button on a Google TV Streamer remote

The Google TV Streamer Voice Remote’s star button can open a favorite app, Google Home panel, or the TV/device input selector. This is a Google TV Streamer Voice Remote feature; do not assume the older Chromecast Voice Remote has the same customizable star button.

Published by TV Remotely · Source checked 2026-10-29. Model and firmware behavior can differ; device tests are named only where performed.

Create a shortcut

Press the star button and choose the shortcut type. Google’s current choices include a favorite TV app, Google Home panel, and device inputs.

To open an app, press the star button, select the app, and choose Create shortcut.
A confirmation appears after the app shortcut is saved.
If that does not help: If the app is not listed, check that it is installed on the Google TV device.
To open Google Home, select Google Home and Create shortcut.
The button opens the Home panel on the TV.
If that does not help: Google says initial Home panel sync can take time; restart the device if it still cannot be personalized after an hour.
To switch inputs, create a device-input shortcut and select the TV or display device.
Pressing the star button then cycles available device inputs.
If that does not help: If the input is not controlled, set up the remote’s TV button/IR controls separately.

Change the shortcut later

Hold the customizable button for 1–2 seconds to choose another shortcut. If the existing assignment is device inputs, Google’s help also lists Settings > Remotes & Accessories > Set up remote buttons > Customizable button. Device setup and menu labels may change with software.

What to do next

Assign the Google TV Streamer star button to an app, Home panel, or input; older remotes may not have the same control.

Sources and verification

Set up the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote customizable button — checked 2026-10-29
Meet the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote — checked 2026-10-29

Frequently asked questions

Can I remap the Netflix button with this guide?: No. This documented shortcut applies to the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote star button; Google documents the app buttons separately.
Does the Chromecast with Google TV remote have the same star button?: Google describes this customizable star-button feature for the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote. Check your exact remote model.