Lost your TV remote? How to control your TV without it
If your TV is a smart TV that’s already on Wi-Fi, your phone can replace the remote in a couple of minutes. If it isn’t, there are still a few ways in.
Short answer
If the TV is already connected to your Wi-Fi, install a remote app such as TVRemoteX on your iPhone, join the same network, allow Local Network access and pick the TV. If the TV isn’t on Wi-Fi yet, use the buttons on the TV itself, a USB keyboard or mouse (many smart TVs accept them), HDMI-CEC from a game console or streaming stick, or buy an inexpensive replacement remote.
Option 1: use your iPhone as the remote
Smart TVs accept commands over the local network. TVRemoteX finds TVs on your Wi-Fi and gives you a D-pad, volume, keyboard and app shortcuts.
- Join the same Wi-Fi as the TVNot the guest network. Pause any VPN.
- Install TVRemoteX and allow Local NetworkiOS asks the first time; tap Allow.
- Pick the TV and approveSome TVs show a prompt or code. If you can’t reach the prompt without a remote, use the TV’s buttons (below) once.
Option 2: the buttons on the TV
Almost every TV has a power button or a small joystick underneath the logo or on the back edge. Short presses usually move through input, volume and channel; a long press often opens a menu.
Option 3: HDMI-CEC
If a PlayStation, Xbox, Apple TV, Fire TV Stick or Chromecast is connected and HDMI-CEC is on (Anynet+ on Samsung, SimpLink on LG, Bravia Sync on Sony), that device’s controller or remote can turn the TV on and change volume.
Option 4: plug in a keyboard or mouse
Many Android TV, Google TV, Samsung and LG models accept a USB keyboard or mouse for menus and typing. Useful for joining Wi-Fi so a phone app can take over.
Option 5: replacement or universal remote
Official replacements are sold by model number (on the back label). Universal IR remotes are cheap and cover most brands.
By brand
- Samsung TV remote app
- LG TV remote app
- Roku remote app
- Fire TV remote app
- Google TV remote app
- All brands
Questions people ask
Can I control a TV with my iPhone without Wi-Fi?
iPhones have no infrared transmitter, so the TV must be on the same network. If it isn’t, connect it once using its buttons, a USB keyboard or a replacement remote.
How do I connect my TV to Wi-Fi without a remote?
Use the TV’s buttons or a USB keyboard/mouse to open network settings. Some TVs also accept an Ethernet cable and connect automatically.
Official sources
Written and checked by BiHai Song, developer of TVHomeX and TVRemoteX