The Roku mobile app allows you to use your smartphone or tablet as a remote control for your Roku streaming player or Roku TV. With the app, you can access all the features of a regular Roku remote right from your mobile device.
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Benefits of Using the Roku Mobile App Remote
There are several advantages to using the Roku mobile app remote:
- Convenience – You can control your Roku device from anywhere in your home as long as your mobile device is connected to the same WiFi network. No need to worry about misplacing the physical remote.
- Keyboard Input – The mobile app makes it easy to type text into search fields and login forms using your mobile keyboard. The physical Roku remote requires you to slowly type one letter at a time.
- Private Listening – Listen to your shows through headphones connected to your phone for private listening without disturbing others.
- Roku Channel – Stream free TV shows, movies, news, sports, and more from The Roku Channel directly on your mobile device, even when away from your home network.
Requirements
To use the Roku mobile app remote, you need:
- A compatible Roku streaming player or Roku TV
- The free official Roku mobile app installed on your smartphone or tablet
- Your mobile device connected to the same wireless network as your Roku device
The Roku mobile app is available for iOS and Android devices.
How to Set Up the Roku Mobile App Remote
Follow these steps to start using your mobile device as a remote control for your Roku TV or streaming player:
1. Download and Install the Roku App
Download and install the free Roku app from the App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile device.
Download Roku App
2. Connect Your Phone and Roku to the Same WiFi
Make sure both your phone and Roku device are connected to the same wireless network. You can check this in the settings menu of each device.
3. Open the Roku App and Select Your Device
Open the Roku app and it will automatically search for Roku devices on your network. Select your Roku TV or streaming player from the list.
Select Roku Device
4. Tap the Remote Control Icon
After connecting to your device, tap the remote icon at the bottom to open the on-screen remote.
Roku App Remote
You should now be able to use the Roku mobile app to control your TV!
Using the On-Screen Remote
The Roku mobile app provides the following controls:
- Directional Pad – Navigate menus and selections
- Play/Pause, Rewind, Fast Forward – Control video playback
- Home and Back Button – Access the Roku home screen and go back
- Volume Buttons – Control TV volume
- Instant Replay – Replay the last few seconds with one click
- Keyboard Input – Bring up a keyboard for text entry
- Voice Search – Search for content hands-free
- Power Off – Put your TV into standby mode
- Additional Options – Access more actions like captions and audio settings
The mobile app remote provides all the essential controls needed to fully operate your Roku TV. You can browse channels, launch videos, control playback, adjust volume, and more.
Tips for Using the Roku Mobile App Remote
- If the app doesn’t automatically find your Roku device, try manually connecting with your Roku’s IP address
- Restart your Roku and phone if having connection issues
- Update the Roku app and your Roku device software for maximum compatibility
- Use headphones connected to your mobile device for private listening
- Enable screen mirroring to view Roku content directly on your phone
- Use the Roku mobile app keyboard for easier text entry on your TV
The Roku mobile app makes an excellent second remote. Keep your regular Roku remote handy for other family members while controlling your Roku with your smartphone from anywhere in your house!
Conclusion
The free Roku mobile app allows you to conveniently control your Roku TV or streaming media player straight from your smartphone or tablet. After downloading the app and connecting your phone to the same WiFi network, you can access a full on-screen remote to browse channels, launch videos, adjust volume, and more. With its keyboard input, voice search, and private listening features, the Roku mobile app remote provides an enhanced second screen experience that outshines the physical remote.