Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more.
How to use your phone to control your Android TV wirelessly
Most Android TV devices come with a voice-enabled remote to easily search for content using Google Assistant. However, there are many times when you might not want to use a remote, and you would find it more convenient to control your Android TV with your smartphone instead. For instance, typing on an Android TV is easier using a phone than a remote control. If the remote control stops functioning properly, a phone can also help you navigate and use your Android TV. Here’s how to control your Android TV using your smartphone.
QUICK ANSWER
The Google TV app is the easiest way to control your Android TV with your smartphone. The app is available on the Google Play Store. It is free and works with Android-powered televisions, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, and other devices. You can also use the Google Home app to control your Android TV device.
JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS
How to control your Android TV with the Google TV and Google Home apps
You’ll need the Google TV app to control your compatible Android TV. You can download the same for your Android or iOS devices.
- On your Android phone, open the Google TV app.
- Near the bottom right, tap Remote.
- At the top, tap Scanning for devices.
- Choose your device.
- To complete pairing, follow the instructions on your phone and TV.
- After pairing, you can use your phone or your remote.
Tip: You can also add the app to your Quick Settings to quickly access your TV remote from any screen on your Android phone.
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, you can follow the instructions below to use the Google TV app as a virtual remote for your Android TV
- On your iPhone or iPad, open the Google TV app.
- Near the bottom right, tap Connect TV.
- Select the device you want to connect to.
- Enter the code that displays on your TV screen.
- Tap Pair.
Similarly, you can use the latest version of the Google Home app on Android or iOS to control your Android TV device.
- Power on your TV and Google TV or Android TV device.
- On your mobile device, open the Google Home app.
- Tap the Google TV or Android TV device you want to control.
- To use your virtual remote control, tap Open remote.
Troubleshooting
If the above-mentioned app pairing method does not work, you can try troubleshooting the problem using the following methods.
Check your TV and phone’s Wi-Fi connection
Both the Android TV and phone should be on the same Wi-Fi network for you to use your phone as a remote control. Press the Home button on your Android TV remote and go to Settings (the gear icon) at the top right corner. Go to Network and Internet and confirm that the Wi-Fi is on and you’re connected to the correct network.
Check your remote’s volume settings
From the Google TV home screen, select Settings > Remote & Accessories > Set up remote buttons > Volume control.
Confirm that “Volume control” is set to “Auto (CEC).”