Select Your TV Remote ๐
In the age of digital innovation, smartphones have become more than just communication tools. They’re now powerful, multifunctional devices that can control almost every gadget in your homeโincluding your television.
Lost your TV remote again? Or maybe it stopped working? Donโt worry. With just a few taps, you can turn your smartphone into a fully functional TV remote. Whether youโre managing a smart TV or an older model with infrared compatibility, modern apps can bridge the gap and offer you seamless control.
Top 6 Best TV Remote Apps for 2025
Hereโs a curated list of the best mobile apps that transform your smartphone into a universal remote:
Mi Remote Controller
Best for: Phones with IR blasters
Features: Supports TV, set-top boxes, ACs, and more
Offline Mode: Yes (with IR)
Platform: Android
User Rating: โ โ โ โ โ
Google TV (Formerly Google Play Movies & TV)
Best for: Controlling Android TV
Features: Cast videos, control navigation, voice search
Platform: Android, iOS
User Rating: โ โ โ โ โ
Samsung SmartThings
Best for: Samsung smart TVs and appliances
Features: Connect all Samsung smart devices, including TVs, lights, fridges, and more
Platform: Android, iOS
User Rating: โ โ โ โ โ
Universal TV Remote Control by Twinone
Best for: Multiple device compatibility (IR based)
Features: Quick pairing, simple UI, remote backup
Platform: Android
User Rating: โ โ โ โ โ
Roku Remote App
Best for: Roku users
Features: Navigate channels, private listening, voice control
Platform: Android, iOS
User Rating: โ โ โ โ โ
AnyMote Universal Remote + WiFi Smart Home Control
Best for: Smart home integration
Features: Supports IR + Wi-Fi, smart home automation
Platform: Android, iOS
User Rating: โ โ โ โ โ
๐ ๏ธ How to Download and Set Up a TV Remote App
Letโs look at how you can install and configure a TV remote app on your phone:
For Android Devices:
Step 1 : Open Google Play Store.
Step 2 : Search for your preferred app (e.g., Mi Remote, Google TV, SmartThings).
Step 3 : Tap Install.
Step 4 : Open the app after installation.
Step 5 : Follow on-screen instructions to detect your TV.
For iPhone/iPad Devices:
Step 1 : Open the App Store.
Step 2 : Search for TV remote apps (e.g., Google TV, Roku, SmartThings).
Step 3 : Tap Get to install.
Step 4 : Open and set up the connection via Wi-Fi.
๐บ Compatible Devices and Smart TVs
Most modern apps are compatible with a variety of TV brands and models.
Popular TV Brands Supported:
- Samsung Smart TVs
- LG Smart TVs (webOS)
- Sony Bravia (Android)
- Mi TV, OnePlus TV, Realme TV
- TCL, Hisense, Vizio, Panasonic
- Android TVs
- Roku TVs
- Fire TV & Chromecast
Additional Compatible Devices:
DTH Boxes (Tata Sky, Airtel, DishTV)
ACs, Projectors (with IR)
Smart Home Gadgets (via Wi-Fi)
How to Use a Mobile TV Remote App โ Step-by-Step
Hereโs a basic flow for using these apps:
Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure both TV and phone are connected to the same Wi-Fi.
Open the App: Launch the downloaded remote app.
Choose Device Brand: The app will scan and detect your smart TV brand.
Test Remote Functions: Check volume, input source, and power buttons.
Save Configuration: Once setup is successful, save your device profile for one-tap access..
โ Benefits of Using Your Phone as a TV Remote
Letโs begin with why people are making the switch to smartphone-based TV remotes:
- No More Lost Remotes
- Your smartphone is always with you. Turn it into your go-to controller and say goodbye to misplaced remotes.
- Smart Features at Your Fingertips
- Modern apps offer more than volume and channel controls. Access your favorite apps, cast content, use voice commands, and even customize controls.
- Universal Remote in One Device
- Forget juggling multiple remotes. These apps can control your TV, set-top box, AC, and even smart home gadgetsโall from your phone.
- Convenient and Battery-Free
- Unlike physical remotes that rely on AAA batteries, remote apps run on your smartphoneโs power, saving cost and hassle.
- Voice and Gesture Control
- Control your TV through your voice or swipe gestures. Many apps now integrate with Google Assistant, Alexa, or Siri.
๐ฒ How Do Mobile TV Remote Apps Work?
TV remote apps work using two technologies:
Infrared (IR Blaster)
Phones with IR blasters emit infrared signals similar to a traditional remote control. This technology works well with older TVs and devices like DVD players and air conditioners.
- ๐ No Wi-Fi required
- โ Instant response
- ๐ Compatible with non-smart TVs
Wi-Fi Based Apps
Most modern remote apps use Wi-Fi to connect with smart TVs. Your phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
- ๐ Smart home integration
- ๐ฃ Voice controls available
- ๐ก More features and app controls
The idea of using your phone as a universal TV remote was once futuristicโnow itโs standard. Whether you have a cutting-edge smart TV or a traditional set, remote apps bring ease, customization, and control to your fingertips.
Gone are the days of juggling multiple remotes or dealing with missing batteries. Now, one app can manage it allโfrom your TV and set-top box to your smart AC.
If you havenโt already, it’s time to download one of these top-rated apps and transform your smartphone into a smart remote.