TV Remote and Smart TV Control

I've been using TV Remote and Smart TV Control for about a month, and it has become my preferred way to control my TV from my phone. The app is built around a Wi-Fi based remote control, so as long as the phone and TV share the same Wi-Fi network, the essential buttons are ready without pointing anything at the screen. It won't replace a universal IR remote, but it solves the everyday problem of a missing physical remote.

How I Got It Working

Setup was straightforward. I connected both devices to the same Wi-Fi, opened the app, and my Samsung TV showed up in the device list within a few seconds. No pairing code or cable was needed. An LG TV in another room connected the same way. The supported brand list includes Sony, Toshiba and Philips as well, so most households with a modern TV should have a compatible option.

Everyday Controls That Matter

The on-screen remote covers power, volume, channel, mute and input, so the basics feel familiar. What impressed me more is the virtual keyboard, because typing a search term with a physical TV remote is usually painful. The app also puts shortcuts to Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video near the top, so moving from broadcast to streaming takes one tap instead of digging through menus. I rearranged a few buttons in the custom layout and placed mute where my thumb naturally rests, something a regular remote would not allow.

Where It Falls Short

Because it relies on Wi-Fi, the app will not work if the TV is on another network or if either device is offline. Non-smart TVs without network support will not appear at all, so the physical remote stays essential in that setup. I also found that some advanced menus on certain TV models are not fully mapped in the virtual remote; the app handles everyday control well, but deep configuration still requires the original remote.

Who Should Use This App

This is a practical option for households with smart TVs and a tendency to lose remotes between couch cushions. It is also useful if you want to keep the coffee table clear or need a quick way to switch to streaming apps. If that sounds useful, grab TV Remote and Smart TV Control from the download link on this page and see whether it works with your TV. Just keep in mind that it is not a universal remote for cable boxes or non-Wi-Fi TVs.