How to Use Your Phone as an Android TV Remote

The plastic remote that came with your Android TV is fine for pausing a film, but painful the moment you need to type a password or search for a show. The fix is already in your pocket: your phone can act as a full Android TV remote, complete with a real keyboard and voice search. Here is how to set it up.

Option 1: The Google TV app (recommended)

Google's own app turns any Android or iPhone into a remote, and it is the simplest option.

• Install the Google TV app from the Play Store or App Store.
• Open it and tap the remote icon (usually bottom-right).
• Choose your Android TV from the list — your phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
• Confirm the pairing code shown on the TV.

You now have a directional pad, play/pause controls, volume, a full on-screen keyboard for fast typing, and a microphone button for voice search.

Option 2: A manufacturer's remote app

Many TV brands ship their own remote app (for example, a Sony, TCL or Hisense companion app). These often add extra buttons specific to your TV, like input switching or picture settings. Search your TV brand's name plus "remote" in your phone's app store.

Why a phone remote is worth it

• Typing is far faster — entering logins and search terms with a real keyboard beats pecking at arrow keys.
• Voice search built in — say the show name instead of spelling it.
• A backup when the remote goes missing — or when the batteries die mid-film.
• Trackpad-style navigation — swipe to move around the interface.

Troubleshooting

• TV not showing up: make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (not a guest network).
• Pairing fails: restart the app, and check the TV's casting/remote settings are enabled.
• Laggy response: a weak Wi-Fi signal is usually the cause — move closer to the router.

New to the platform? Our beginner's guide to Android TV covers the basics, and if the interface feels sluggish generally, see Android TV running slow: fixes that work.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my phone as an Android TV remote?

Yes. Install the Google TV app, tap the remote icon and connect to your TV on the same Wi-Fi network — you get a keyboard and voice search too.

Does it work on iPhone?

Yes. The Google TV app is available for both Android and iPhone and works as a remote for Android TV.

Do I need the physical remote at all?

Not for everyday use. A phone remote covers navigation, typing and voice — handy if the original remote is lost.

Get more from your Android TV

Once navigation is easy, all you need is something great to watch. LionTV brings live TV, live sports and movies into one Android TV app — no activation code. See the membership plans.