How to Use Your Phone as an Android TV Remote

The plastic remote that came with your Android TV is fine for pausing a film, but painful the moment you need to type a password or search for a show. The fix is already in your pocket: your phone can act as a full Android TV remote, complete with a real keyboard and voice search. Here is how to set it up.

Option 1: The Google TV app (recommended)

Google's own app turns any Android or iPhone into a remote, and it is the simplest option.

• Install the Google TV app from the Play Store or App Store.
• Open it and tap the remote icon (usually bottom-right).
• Choose your Android TV from the list — your phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
• Confirm the pairing code shown on the TV.

You now have a directional pad, play/pause controls, volume, a full on-screen keyboard for fast typing, and a microphone button for voice search.

Option 2: A manufacturer's remote app

Many TV brands ship their own remote app (for example, a Sony, TCL or Hisense companion app). These often add extra buttons specific to your TV, like input switching or picture settings. Search your TV brand's name plus "remote" in your phone's app store.

Why a phone remote is worth it

• Typing is far faster — entering logins and search terms with a real keyboard beats pecking at arrow keys.
• Voice search built in — say the show name instead of spelling it.
• A backup when the remote goes missing — or when the batteries die mid-film.
• Trackpad-style navigation — swipe to move around the interface.

How to connect your phone to your TV as a remote

Connecting your phone to your TV as a remote is straightforward, but a few details make it smoother:

• Same Wi-Fi network: both devices must be on the same network — not a guest network or a phone hotspot.
• Enable remote features on the TV: check that your TV's remote/casting settings are turned on (usually under Settings > Network or Settings > Remote).
• Use the Google TV app or a brand app: the Google TV app works for most Android TVs; brand apps (Sony, TCL, Hisense) may offer extra features.
• Pairing code: when prompted, enter the code shown on the TV screen to confirm the connection.

Once connected, you can control your TV just like with the physical remote — plus enjoy the extra convenience of a keyboard and voice search.

Can I use my phone as a TV remote without Wi-Fi?

Most remote apps require Wi-Fi, but some TVs support Bluetooth or infrared (IR) control. If your phone has an IR blaster (rare on modern phones), you can use a universal remote app. For most Android TVs, Wi-Fi is the simplest and most reliable method.

Troubleshooting

• TV not showing up: make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (not a guest network).
• Pairing fails: restart the app, and check the TV's casting/remote settings are enabled.
• Laggy response: a weak Wi-Fi signal is usually the cause — move closer to the router.

New to the platform? Our beginner's guide to Android TV covers the basics, and if the interface feels sluggish generally, see Android TV running slow: fixes that work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone as an Android TV remote?

Yes. Install the Google TV app, tap the remote icon and connect to your TV on the same Wi-Fi network — you get a keyboard and voice search too.

How do I turn my phone into a TV remote?

Install the Google TV app (or your TV brand's app), open it, select your TV from the list, and confirm the pairing code. Your phone becomes a fully functional remote.

Can I use my Android phone as a TV remote for any TV?

Yes, if the TV is an Android TV or Google TV, or if it supports the Google TV app. For other smart TVs, check if the manufacturer offers a remote app.

Does it work on iPhone?

Yes. The Google TV app is available for both Android and iPhone and works as a remote for Android TV.

Do I need the physical remote at all?

Not for everyday use. A phone remote covers navigation, typing and voice — handy if the original remote is lost.

Get more from your Android TV

Once navigation is easy, all you need is something great to watch. Playly TV brings live TV, live sports and movies into one Android TV app — no activation code. See the membership plans.