SAN FRANCISCO, Jan 23, 2026, 00:01 PST
- According to a MakeUseOf guide, phones can substitute for several TV remotes without needing extra hardware, leveraging Wi‑Fi control or the infrared features built into certain models
- Apple, Roku, and Amazon have all rolled out phone-based remotes linked directly to their TV and streaming platforms
- Compatibility issues, quirky home Wi‑Fi setups, and ad-packed third-party apps continue to frustrate users
A MakeUseOf guide released Thursday showed how you can turn a smartphone into a universal remote for TVs and other gear without adding hardware, using either Wi‑Fi controls or the phone’s built-in infrared. The article highlighted the Universal TV Remote App‑IR, which works via Wi‑Fi or an IR blaster. (MakeUseOf)
Timing is key as living rooms fill up with more boxes and screens, yet the remote chaos only grows. Take Apple: it claims the Apple TV Remote in the iPhone Control Center works with Apple TV (3rd generation) and newer models, plus AirPlay-compatible smart TVs—all set up over the same Wi‑Fi network. (Apple Support)
On Android, a straightforward fix is still hardware-based. OnePlus includes “infrared remote control” in the sensor specs for its OnePlus 13, so the phone can emit IR signals—the same line-of-sight commands your TV remote relies on. (OnePlus)
The Google Play page for Universal TV Remote App‑IR details two main modes: Wi‑Fi control for smart TVs that support it, and an infrared mode aimed at older models. It points out that the IR functions need a phone equipped with an IR blaster, cautions users that performance may differ depending on the TV model and software version, and mentions the app “contains ads” along with in‑app purchase options. (Google Play)
Roku pushes a comparable concept within its ecosystem. Its free mobile app offers a remote control, voice search, and a headphone mode that lets you listen privately via your phone. (Roku)
Amazon’s Fire TV app on Android delivers straightforward navigation, playback controls, and a keyboard for typing, according to its Google Play page. Compatibility varies based on your setup; in certain cases, a multicast-enabled router is required. The listing also points out that voice search isn’t supported everywhere. (Google Play)
None of this is fresh news, and the glitches have lingered for some time. Tim Brennan, founder of UniversalRemoteReviews.com, told AARP back in 2021, “there really is no single universal remote app,” cautioning that many apps are buggy or bombard users with “obnoxious” ads unless you pay up. IDC analyst Adam Wright added that voice commands serve as “an additional tool,” not a fix for clunky menus. (AARP)
Turning your phone into a remote isn’t always straightforward. Verizon’s guide points out that Wi‑Fi remotes usually require both your phone and TV to be on the same home network. On the other hand, IR control depends on your phone having the necessary hardware and a clear line of sight to the TV. (Verizon)
An IR blaster is a small transmitter that sends out infrared light signals — the phone turns your taps into IR commands that compatible devices can pick up, Digital Trends explained in their piece on the OnePlus 13’s IR feature. It’s not just for TVs, but it only works with gear that still uses IR. (Digital Trends)
Apple’s tvOS user guide highlights the opposite approach: integrated, brand-exclusive control. It notes that users can launch Control Center on an iPhone or iPad and tap the Apple TV Remote icon to turn the device into a remote for Apple TV 4K. (Apple Support)
