Lost your TV remote? Here is what to do
You can control most smart TVs without the remote. Turn the TV on with the button on the TV itself, then use a remote app on your phone over Wi-Fi. Google TV and Android TV work with free and paid apps, Samsung and LG have their own apps, and an HDMI-CEC device can also switch the TV on.
1. Use the button on the TV
Almost every TV has a physical button, usually under the middle of the bottom edge, on the back or behind the logo. A short press turns the TV on; on many models, holding it opens a small menu for input and volume.
2. Use your phone as a remote
Phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi. Which app works depends on the TV's operating system, not the brand:
| TV system | Typical brands | Phone app |
|---|---|---|
| Google TV / Android TV | TCL, Sony, Philips, Xiaomi, Hisense (some) | Google TV app (free), Zapmio |
| Samsung Tizen | Samsung | SmartThings (free), Zapmio |
| LG webOS | LG | LG ThinQ (free), Zapmio |
| Roku TV | TCL (US), Hisense (US) | Roku app (free) |
| Fire TV | Amazon, some Toshiba/Insignia | Fire TV app (free) |
A remote that is always in your pocket
Zapmio turns your Android phone into a full TV remote over Wi-Fi: arrows, OK, volume, channels and power, with large buttons you can use without looking. It finds the TV on your network, so there is no IP address to type, and everyone at home can use it on their own phone. Try it free on your own TV.
Try it free14 days free · Coming soon to Google Play3. Make the phone app turn the TV on
Many TVs switch off Wi-Fi in standby, so no app can turn them on. On Google TV you can change this under Settings → System → Power & energy → Energy mode → Increased. On Samsung look for "Power on with mobile", on LG for "Turn on via Wi-Fi". The TV then uses a little more power in standby.
4. Use another remote you already have (HDMI-CEC)
If a Chromecast, game console or TV box is connected via HDMI, its remote can often turn the TV on and control the volume. Turn on HDMI-CEC in the TV settings (Samsung calls it Anynet+, LG SimpLink, Sony BRAVIA Sync).
5. Buy a replacement remote
An original remote matching your TV's model number is the safest choice. Universal IR remotes are cheaper but must be set up with a code for your brand. You find the model number on the sticker on the back of the TV.
Related guides
- Use your phone as a Google TV remote
- Control your TCL TV from your phone
- How to turn on a TCL TV without the remote
Frequently asked questions
Can I control my TV with my phone without Wi-Fi?
Only if your phone has an infrared (IR) blaster, which few phones have today. Wi-Fi apps require phone and TV on the same network.
Why can't the app turn my TV on?
The TV switches off its network in standby. Change the standby or energy setting on the TV (see step 3), or turn it on with the button on the TV.
Is there a free remote app?
Yes. The Google TV app, Samsung SmartThings and LG ThinQ are free for their own brands. Zapmio is for households with several phones or TV brands and is tested on your TV before you pay.