How to Turn Your Smartphone into a Remote Control for Your TV

Updated Friday 21 March 2025 16:30

Tech Hack: Make Your Smartphone Your Ultimate TV Remote

We've all been there: you settle down to unwind, grab the remote control, etc. then it's gone. Perhaps the batteries are dead, or it may have dropped between the couch cushions. The good news? It's not as hard as you may think to convert your smartphone into a working TV control.

This tutorial will show you how to configure your phone to manage your smart TV, streaming device, or even certain older TVs, regardless of whether you're using an Android or iPhone.

What Makes Your Phone a TV Remote Control?

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Convenience: You can always reach your phone.

Batteries are not required: No more looking for substitutes.

Smart Features: Some applications even allow keyboard input and voice control.

Control multiple devices: Use a single app to control your TV, soundbar, and streaming device.]

What You Need to Get Started

Before you begin, check that:

Your TV supports remote control via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared (IR).
Your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your smart TV (for Wi-Fi remote apps).
Your phone has an IR blaster if your TV isn’t a smart TV.

Method 1: Use a Built-in Remote App (for Smart TVs)

Many phones come with built-in remote apps or support downloadable ones that can connect to your smart TV.

For Android Phones

Download the Google TV app (formerly Play Movies & TV) from the Play Store.
Open the app and tap the remote icon.
Select your TV from the list (make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi).
Follow the on-screen instructions to pair.

This works with:

Android TVs
Google TVs
Chromecast with Google TV

Tip: Some Android phones (like Xiaomi, Huawei, and older Samsung models) come with an IR blaster and a pre-installed universal remote app.

For iPhone Users

Open Control Center and tap the remote icon (it’s built-in on iOS).
Make sure your iPhone is on the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV.
Start controlling your TV from your phone.

This also works with:

Smart TVs with AirPlay or HomeKit integration

Apple TV

2. Use the Built-In Remote on iPhone (Apple TV & AirPlay TVs)

If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, your iPhone already has a built-in remote for Apple TVs and compatible smart TVs.

Steps:

Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone to open Control Center.
Tap the TV Remote icon.
Select your Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible TV.
Follow the prompts to pair.

That’s it! You can now control everything from navigation to volume—straight from your iPhone.

3. Download Your TV Brand’s Official App

Most major TV brands offer free remote apps. These apps work over Wi-Fi and offer full control of your TV.

Here are some popular ones:

Samsung – SmartThings
LG – LG ThinQ
Sony / Android TVs – Google TV
Hisense – RemoteNOW
TCL – Roku app (if it’s a Roku TV)
Amazon Fire TV – Fire TV app

To Use:

Download the appropriate app from your phone’s app store.
Connect both your phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
Open the app and select your TV.
Follow the instructions to pair.

Once paired, you can change channels, launch apps, control volume, and more—depending on the app’s features.

4. Use an IR Blaster (For Non-Smart TVs)

If you’re using an older TV that isn’t smart, don’t worry. Some Android phones come with an IR blaster (Infrared), which can mimic the signal from a traditional remote.

What to Do:

Check if your phone has an IR blaster (common on Xiaomi, Huawei, and some older models).
Download a universal remote app like:
- Mi Remote
- AnyMote
- Peel Smart Remote
Open the app, select your TV brand, and point your phone at your TV to start controlling it.

This method is ideal for older TVs without Wi-Fi.

5. Control Your Streaming Device

Have a Chromecast, Roku, Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV? Each device has its own remote app that turns your phone into a powerful controller.

Google Chromecast → Google TV app
Amazon Fire Stick → Fire TV app
Roku → Roku app
Apple TV → iPhone’s built-in remote

These apps typically offer features like:

Voice search
Keyboard input
Touch controls
Quick access to installed apps

Troubleshooting Tips

TV not showing up? Make sure your TV and phone are on the same Wi-Fi.
App not responding? Try restarting your phone and TV.
IR blaster not working? Ensure nothing is blocking the signal and you’re using a compatible app.

Have you tried turning your phone into a remote? Which app worked best for you? Let us know in the comments below!

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