Lost TV Remote — Use Your Phone
Don\'t spend money — your phone is a remote.
Apple TV / iPhone
Your iPhone IS an Apple TV remote.
- Swipe down from top-right corner — Control Center.
- Tap the Apple TV remote icon (rectangle with play button).
- Pick your Apple TV. Use the touchpad on screen.
- Or open the "Apple TV Remote" app (built in).
Roku TV / stick
- Install the free Roku app from App Store / Play Store.
- Phone must be on the same Wi-Fi as the Roku.
- App auto-detects your Roku.
- Touchscreen remote replaces the lost one.
- Bonus — the app has "Private Listening" — sound goes to your phone\'s headphones, not to the TV speakers.
Amazon Fire TV / Stick
- Install the Fire TV app.
- Sign in with the same Amazon account as the Fire TV.
- Connect (same Wi-Fi).
- Touchpad remote on phone.
- Includes voice — speak Alexa commands.
Samsung Smart TV
- Install SmartThings from Samsung.
- Sign in with Samsung account (or create one).
- Add your TV as a device.
- App lets you control TV from phone.
LG, Vizio, Sony Smart TVs
- LG ThinQ app.
- SmartCast app (Vizio).
- Sony Video & TV SideView app.
- Each works similarly — install, log in, pair on Wi-Fi, control.
If your TV is older (no Wi-Fi)
You need a phone with an infrared (IR) blaster — most newer phones don\'t have one. But:
- Samsung Galaxy older models have IR blasters. App: SmartThings or "Peel Remote".
- For most phones: buy a $30 BroadLink IR hub. Plugs in, controls IR devices via app.
- Or just buy a $10 universal remote from Walmart and program it.
Find that remote
- Couch cushions — always check first.
- Between recliner cushions / under recliner.
- In the bathroom or kitchen (you took it during commercials).
- On TOP of the TV (somehow common).
- In a coat pocket from last week.
- Stick a Tile or AirTag to the remote — find it with your phone next time.