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How to Use Your Android as a TV Remote

Using your Android phone as a remote control for your TV is a convenient way to avoid clutter and consolidate devices. Modern TVs can connect directly to your Android via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared, allowing you to browse channels, adjust volume, and access menus right from your phone.

What You Need

To use your Android as a TV remote, you will need:

  • An Android phone running Android 5.0 or higher
  • A smart TV that supports remote control apps and connectivity like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared
  • The remote control app associated with your TV brand installed on your Android

Most modern smart TVs have companion apps that allow remote control from your phone. Here are some of the most popular apps:

  • Samsung SmartThings – For controlling Samsung smart TVs
  • LG TV Plus – For LG webOS smart TVs
  • Sony TV SideView – For Sony Android TVs
  • Roku – For Roku players and Roku TVs
  • Vizio SmartCast – For Vizio smart TVs
  • Xiaomi Mi Remote Controller – For Xiaomi TVs

Connecting Via Wi-Fi

Connecting your Android phone to your smart TV via Wi-Fi is the easiest method for most. Here are the basic steps:

  • Make sure both your phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Install your TV manufacturer’s remote control app from the Google Play Store.
  • Open the app and it will automatically search for compatible TVs on your local network.
  • Select your TV from the list and follow the on-screen pairing instructions.

Once connected over Wi-Fi, you will be able to fully control your TV and even use advanced features like voice commands. This connection does not require any cables or line-of-sight.

Connecting Via Bluetooth

If your TV has Bluetooth support, you can also pair your Android phone using Bluetooth:

  • Enable Bluetooth on both your Android phone and TV.
  • Put your TV into Bluetooth pairing mode (refer to its user manual for exact steps).
  • On your phone, go into your Bluetooth settings to search for and select your TV.

Bluetooth also does not require line-of-sight and lets you control your TV wirelessly up to 30 feet away. This is handy if you want to tweak settings while moving around the room.

Connecting Via Infrared

Some older TVs may only have infrared (IR) support for remote controls. In this case you can still use your phone by installing an IR blaster app:

  • Download a third party IR remote app like Sure Universal Remote or iRemote IR Blaster.
  • Follow the in-app instructions to set up your phone’s IR blaster correctly.
  • Select your TV brand and configure the onscreen remote to match your model.

When using IR you will need direct line-of-sight from your phone’s IR blaster to the TV’s IR receiver. This limits mobility but still lets you ditch traditional remotes.

Basic Controls

Once you have connectivity set up, your Android will function just like a normal remote control for channel surfing, volume, playback controls, accessing menus, etc. Most remote apps mimic the button layout of traditional remotes while adding in extras like keyboards for text entry.

Common controls include:

  • Directional pad – For navigating menus and selections
  • Volume & channel buttons – For changing volume level and channels
  • Playback buttons – Play, pause, rewind, fast forward
  • Menu button – Access main TV settings and menus
  • Input selector – Switch between devices plugged into your TV
  • Keyboard – For text entry in search fields and apps
  • Voice commands – Use your phone’s mic to change channels and more

Advanced controls can include options like launching apps, gaming shortcuts, or one-touch access to streaming services.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you are having trouble connecting your phone or getting your remote to work properly, try these troubleshooting tips:

  • Restart both devices and try pairing again from scratch.
  • Check that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on both devices if applicable.
  • Make sure devices are within 30 feet and have line-of-sight if using IR.
  • Check for interference from other devices on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Ensure you have the latest app and TV software updates installed.
  • Reset your TV to factory default settings if unable to pair.
  • Use a Bluetooth scanner app to ensure your TV is discoverable.

Convenience Features

Beyond basic controls, many smart TV remote apps add great extra features through your Android device:

  • Second screen – View info synced to what’s playing on your TV.
  • Voice search – Use speech-to-text to find content faster.
  • Smart home integration – Control other smart devices like lights.
  • Gaming shortcuts – Quick access buttons for console gaming.
  • Automatic updates – Apps update as new TV features roll out.
  • Personalization – Customize remote buttons and layout.

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