How to Control a TV with Your Phone

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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:

Using an iPhone with Apple TV

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    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.
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    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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    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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    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.
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    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:

Using an Android with an Android TV

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    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.
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    It’s the blue rectangle icon with a round gray dial.
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    A 4-digit PIN will appear on the TV screen.
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    The Android phone is now paired with the TV.
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    Tap the house icon to go to the Home menu, and use the arrow buttons to navigate.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using a Universal Remote Control App for a Smart TV

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    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.
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    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.
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    This initiates the pairing process. A 4-digit code will usually appear on the TV screen.
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    Once the code is authenticated, the remote control app will be paired with the TV. You can now control your TV with your phone.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/ht201664
      2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/ht204989
      3. ↑ https://support.google.com/androidtv/answer/6122465?hl=en
      4. ↑ https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/setting-up-the-cable-tv-app

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      1. Install a remote control app.
      2. Connect the phone to the same Wi-Fi network as the TV.
      3. Open the app.
      4. Select the TV in the app.
      5. Type the code from the TV into the app.

      Did this summary help you?
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