How to Use Your Android Phone as a TV Remote When the Android TV Remote Isn’t Working

Hi, I’m Jessica, and today I’ll walk you through something that frustrates many Android TV users—when the Android TV remote app refuses to cooperate. Don’t worry; your Android phone can step in and act as a reliable TV remote, ensuring you don’t miss your favorite shows. In this blog, I’ll break down why the remote may stop working and share multiple methods to use your Android phone as a TV remote, along with step-by-step instructions, tips, and troubleshooting tricks.

Let’s dive in!

Why the Android TV Remote App May Not Work

Before jumping to solutions, it’s helpful to understand why your remote app might not be responding:

• Wi-Fi issues – If your phone and TV aren’t on the same Wi-Fi network, the connection won’t work.
• App glitches – Outdated or bug-prone versions of the Android TV remote app may malfunction.
• Compatibility problems – Not all Android TVs fully support the Google TV app or third-party remote apps.
• Bluetooth issues – Sometimes, the Bluetooth connection between your phone and TV breaks down.
• System updates – Updates on either your phone or TV can temporarily cause app failures.

The good news? Your Android phone can still act as a TV remote using alternative methods.

Method 1: Use Google TV App (Official Remote Control)

Google TV (previously Android TV Remote Control app) is the official solution for turning your phone into a TV remote.

Steps:

1. Download Google TV app
   • Go to the Google Play Store on your Android phone.
   • Search for Google TV and install it.
2. Connect your phone and TV
   • Make sure your phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network.
   • Open the Google TV app.
   • Tap the Remote button (bottom-right corner).
3. Pair your device
   • Select your TV from the list.
   • Enter the pairing code shown on your TV.
4. Start controlling your TV
   • Use your phone’s screen as a touchpad or keypad.
   • Control volume, apps, and navigation seamlessly.

💡 Tip: Google TV also has voice control support, so you can say, “Play Stranger Things on Netflix,” and your TV will obey.

Method 2: Use Your TV Manufacturer’s App

Many TV brands offer their own apps to control their devices. If Google TV doesn’t work for you, try these:

• Samsung SmartThings (for Samsung TVs)
• LG ThinQ (for LG Smart TVs)
• Sony Bravia TV Remote (for Sony TVs)
• Mi Remote Controller (for Xiaomi TVs)

Steps:

1. Download the official app for your TV brand.
2. Connect your phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Pair your TV within the app.
4. Start using it as a remote.

💡 Pro Tip: These apps often unlock extra features like casting photos, checking inputs, or adjusting picture modes.

Method 3: Use Infrared (IR Blaster) on Your Android Phone

Some Android phones (like certain Xiaomi, Huawei, and older Samsung models) come with an IR blaster, which mimics the functionality of a physical remote.

Steps:

1. Download a universal remote app like Peel Smart Remote or AnyMote.
2. Open the app and choose your TV brand.
3. Point your phone towards the TV and press the buttons.

💡 Note: This method doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi—it works just like a traditional remote.

Method 4: Use Chromecast and Google Home

If you use a Chromecast or Chromecast built-in TV, your Android phone can double as a remote.

Steps:

1. Install the Google Home app on your phone.
2. Connect your phone and Chromecast/TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Open Google Home, select your TV, and tap Remote.
4. Use your phone to control volume, playback, and navigation.

💡 Bonus: This method lets you cast YouTube, Netflix, or Spotify directly from your phone.

Method 5: Third-Party Universal Remote Apps

When nothing else works, you can try third-party apps that support multiple TV brands.

Popular options include:

• Unified Remote
• CetusPlay
• Roku Remote (if you use a Roku TV)

Steps:

1. Download and install one of these apps.
2. Connect your phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi.
3. Follow the on-screen setup instructions.
4. Use it as a backup remote.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your Android phone still isn’t connecting to your TV, try these fixes:

• Restart your phone, TV, and Wi-Fi router.
• Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
• Update your Google TV app or manufacturer’s app.
• Re-pair your device by entering the on-screen code again.
• If using IR blaster, check that it’s enabled in settings.

Why Using Your Phone as a TV Remote is Smart

• Always available – You rarely lose your phone, unlike remotes.
• More features – Voice search, app launching, and quick navigation.
• Customizable – Some apps let you create shortcuts.
• Convenient for families – Multiple people can control the TV from their own phones.

Final Thoughts

When the Android TV remote app fails, your Android phone can easily step in as a powerful TV remote. Whether you use the official Google TV app, a brand-specific remote app, an IR blaster, or Google Home, you’ll have plenty of reliable alternatives.

As long as you keep your phone and TV on the same network (or use an IR-compatible phone), you’ll never be stuck without control over your TV.

So, the next time your Android TV remote app stops working, don’t stress—your Android phone has your back.

✅ That’s it! With these methods, you can enjoy hassle-free TV control straight from your Android phone.