Activate smart-home & other devices by code
Beyond TVs and consoles, plenty of devices — projectors, soundbars, smart displays, in-car systems — activate streaming apps with the same code method.
- Open the app on the device and choose Sign in.
- Pick the "use a code / another device" option to reveal a code and web address.
- Enter the code on a phone or computer where you are signed in.
- The device activates.
Why so many devices use the same method
Projectors, smart displays and car screens share the problem TVs have: typing a password on them is slow and awkward. The "enter this code on another device" approach is built on a published standard designed for exactly these limited-input devices, which is why the steps feel identical everywhere. For the details, see device code sign-in, explained.
Device-specific tips
- Projectors: codes can be small or blurry on a large wall. Use your phone camera's zoom to read it, or scan the QR code if one is shown (QR code activation).
- Smart displays: these are often already linked to an account through their companion app. Check that app first before activating each streaming service separately.
- In-car systems: only activate while parked. The code times out quickly, so have your phone unlocked before you start.
- Soundbars and speakers without screens: there is no code to show, so sign-in is done in the maker's companion phone app instead.
Notes for shared or borrowed devices
- Sign out when you are finished, especially on rental, hotel or in-car systems. If you forget, remove the device from your account online; see how to sign out of all devices.
- If the device has no screen (some soundbars/speakers), activation is handled in that brand's companion phone app instead of with an on-screen code.
- Only type a code that the device in front of you is showing. A code that arrives by message or call is a scam; see is it safe to enter an activation code?
Pairing is not activation
Many of these devices also show a pairing code when you connect a phone or accessory. That code goes into your other device, not into a website; see pairing code vs activation code. If you are signing in on a screen you do not own, the routine in streaming on a hotel TV applies there too.
Frequently asked questions
My device has no screen to show a code.
Use the device's companion phone app — screenless devices handle sign-in there instead of showing an on-screen code.
Is it safe to activate my account on a rental car or hotel system?
It works the same way, but the device is not yours, so sign out before you leave and check your account's device list afterwards.
The code on my projector is hard to read. What can I do?
Move closer or zoom in with your phone camera, scan the QR code if there is one, or request a fresh code rather than guessing similar-looking characters.