How to Control a TV with Your Phone

Written by Nicole Levine, MFA

This wikiHow teaches you how to use a remote control app on an iPhone or iPad to control your television.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

This is a free app that allows you to use your iPhone to control your Apple TV.^{[1]
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The TV needs to be on so you can pair it with your iPhone.
It’s the black icon with a gray Apple and the letters ″tv″ inside. You’ll find it on one of your home screens.
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Tap your Apple TV. In a few moments, a 4-digit code should appear on the TV screen.
- If you don’t see your Apple TV listed, you may need to restart it. Also, double-check to make sure the iPhone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the TV.
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Type the code into the iPhone app. Once the code is authenticated, the iPhone and the TV will be paired.
- If no code appears, the iPhone is already paired with the TV.
You’ll see 5 or 6 different options in the app depending on your model. To get started, tap Menu, and then swipe through your options. When you see something you want to watch, tap it.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

This free app lets you use your Android phone as a remote control for your Android TV.^{[3]
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This is required so that the phone can communicate with the TV.
It’s the blue rectangle icon with a round gray dial.
A 4-digit PIN will appear on the TV screen.
The Android phone is now paired with the TV.
Tap the house icon to go to the Home menu, and use the arrow buttons to navigate.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

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Install a universal remote app on your iPhone or Android. Most modern Smart TVs can be controlled with an app on a phone or tablet.
- If you’re using a popular Smart TV model like a Samsung, Sony, or LG, download the app provided by the manufacturer for best results.
- If you use Xfinity cable, download the Xfinity TV Remote app from the App Store or Play Store.^{[4]
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This is usually required for the devices to communicate.
If there are any sign-in or welcome screens, follow the on-screen instructions until you get to a screen that allows you to select your TV.
This initiates the pairing process. A 4-digit code will usually appear on the TV screen.
Once the code is authenticated, the remote control app will be paired with the TV. You can now control your TV with your phone.