The average TV remote has over 50 buttons, but most people only use 8-10 of them regularly because the design is intentionally intimidating.
The button overload serves multiple corporate purposes. First, it makes you dependent on cable companies and streaming services instead of learning how to access free content through your TV's built-in features. Many modern TVs can access hundreds of free channels and streaming services without requiring monthly subscriptions, but the confusing remote design prevents most people from discovering these options.
Remote manufacturers also profit from replacement sales.The more buttons a remote has, the more likely it is to break or malfunction, forcing consumers to buy expensive replacements. Universal remotes cost $15-20 to manufacture but sell for $60-80 because companies know customers are frustrated with their complicated factory remotes.
What's particularly sneaky is how manufacturers hide the most useful buttons in obscure locations while making advertising-related buttons large and prominent. The "Netflix" and "Amazon Prime" buttons are always easy to find, but buttons for free content, parental controls, or energy-saving modes are tiny and unlabeled.
Cable companies actively collaborate with TV manufacturers to ensure remotes remain confusing. Internal industry documents show that simplified remotes reduce cable subscription revenue because customers discover they don't need premium packages to access entertainment.
Your TV remote isn't poorly designed—it's perfectly designed to keep you confused, dependent, and spending money on services you might not actually need.