If your TV remote control has broken from falling or being hit, or if it’s simply stopped working over time, the best thing you can do is use your phone as a TV remote. This way, you’ll avoid buying a new one, or at least it can work temporarily until you buy a new one and it arrives. You’ll be surprised to know that, no matter what TV you have, you can use your phone as a remote control.
You can do this whether your phone has infrared (something we recommend checking when you’re buying a new one) or without it, thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity. In any case, the best way to do it is with apps, so we’ll tell you about the best ones that will allow you to turn your phone into the perfect remote control for your TV. You don’t have to pay anything, and they usually work well, but if an app doesn’t work for you, you can always try another one.
Best remote control apps for mobile
There are many apps you can use as a remote control for your phone, but these are the best. In any case, they’re more than enough for turning the TV on and off and other basic functions.
My Remote controller, perfect if you have an infrared
This is an app that lets you control your TV with your phone if it has infrared. It’s compatible with many brands, including LG, Samsung, Sony, Sharp, Haier, Panasonic, and many others. You can use it to easily turn your TV and Mi Box on or off.
Android TV Remote Service, for Android TVs
With this app, you can use your phone as a remote for Android TVs, and even use the keyboard or voice search. You’ll need to have them connected to the same network or search for it via Bluetooth. It’s ideal for all TVs with the Google operating system.
Google TV also works as a remote control
With this Google app, you just have to open the app, tap on the bottom right corner where it says Remote Control, search for devices, select the TV, pair it, and then you can use it as a remote control for your TV. You can also control it with Google Home. It lets you use it like a regular remote.
TV remote control, the best rated
This is a lesser-known, but very complete TV remote control for controlling your TV remotely. It’s compatible with many devices, can be used as an infrared remote control, Wi-Fi remote, has screen mirroring, and much more. It works with most brands on the market and also has very good reviews. In addition to the Android remote, we’ve chosen one for iPhone, which is very good.
Remote controls with mobile phones from brands
If you prefer to use the brand-specific remote control, different manufacturers have their own apps that can turn your smartphone into the remote control you need. Just check your manufacturer’s website or contact them directly to find out if they have a specific app for this purpose. Otherwise, you can use one of the above or other apps designed for each brand from third-party developers, although don’t do so without first making sure they’re trustworthy and checking their reviews. One of the best-known is Samsung.
SmartThings
This is the app you can use to control your TV with your Samsung phone, turning it on and off, and turning your home into a smart home. In the remote menu, you can control the TV channel, start, volume, and settings.
