It all depends on the model of your TV.
You can choose a TV remote app for iPhone that’s specifically made for your TV brand - for example, Samsung, LG, or Sony. These brand-specific apps often offer deeper integration and extra features tailored to your device.
Alternatively, you can use a universal app that works with most modern smart TVs.
The “Covers-Everything” Universal Remote Apps
- Tried a bunch of these since I own too many screens. My favorite for just getting things done? TV Remote – Universal Control.
- Features:
- Touchpad (so it’s not like pecking at a tiny arrow pad for an hour).
- Full keyboard pop-up! Yes, finally, you can type passwords without nearly sobbing.
- The interface feels kinda like Apple snuck in and designed it—so no confusion.
And About Setting It Up…
Let’s talk roadblocks, or lack thereof: as long as your TV and iPhone are using the same Wi-Fi, pairing usually takes less time than finding your actual remote. Sometimes you gotta punch in a code that flashes on your TV, but it’s fast.
Why Even Bother With a Remote App?
Okay, story time: I once spent half an episode of my favorite show crawling around for my remote. Now, I just tap open this TV remote app for iPhone and I’m good. Lost remotes are a non-issue. You get a slick second screen for controlling your TV, and you’ll probably never fumble for AAA batteries again.
In the end, if you have a modern smart TV and an iPhone, chances are you can toss that old plastic remote in a drawer and take control directly from your pocket. Even my skeptical uncle tried it, and the only complaint he had was “why wasn’t this a thing ten years ago?”