4 Best TV Remote App for Android-Top Picks
Raise your hand if you are like me that misplaces the TV remote all the time! Sucks, right? One minute it’s just there beside you, then *poof*! It’s nowhere to be found.
But what if I say that you don’t need a TV remote to control your television? No, I’m not saying to manually click the buttons on your TV to switch channels.
What I’m saying is… you can control your TV with your smartphone! Of course, with the help of the apps listed below. They are all the best TV remote app for Android.
Related:
The 8 Best Universal Remote Apps for Android
5 Best Remote Desktop Apps for Android [UPDATED!]
How to Set Up Peel Smart Remote (With and Without IR Blaster)
However, every good thing has a downside…
A lot of modern flagships have dropped the infrared blaster and it’s a shame. Manufacturers are now going for a closed waterproof design. The main reason why they don’t see the point including an IR blaster on their flagships anymore.
But hey, here’s a piece of good news!
Mid-range smartphones are not yet abandoning the IR blaster! One is the Huawei Honor 8 is one of the few amazing looking midrange smartphones that came with an IR blaster.
Note: If your smartphone doesn’t have an IR component, most of the apps on the list won’t work well with your phone. While technically, you can use any smartphone to control another smart TV if they are connected to the same wireless network, however, not a lot of people own a smart TV yet. So for those of us who have the standard high definition TV in their den, these apps can prove invaluable when you simply cannot find the remote and the game is on.
Moving on, for those that do come with it, these are the 5 best TV remote app for Android that can work on various Android TV.
Best TV remote app for android – 4 top picks
These are our top picks when it comes to the best tv remote app for android available in the store.
- SURE – Smart Home and TV Universal Remote
- LG TV Remote by LG Electronics, Inc.
- Universal TV Remote by WaveSpark
- Universal TV Remote by Twinone
Now lets look at their features in detail.
1. SURE – Smart Home and TV Universal Remote
Sure Universal TV Remote or formerly called as SureMote came out a little bit later than the others but is already one of the best universal remote available for most Android devices. It utilizes Android phone’s built-in infrared blaster to control multiple home devices including DVD players, AV receivers, and consoles.
The app comes with a lot of features that are not available on any other remote control app, and in my opinion, this is the best app among the best TV remote app for Android; simply because of its simplistic interface as well as great functionality.
It has won a lot of different awards and recognition, including the overall Grand Award and Gold Award in Advertising and Marketing at the prestigious Asia Smartphone Apps Contest 2016 in Hong Kong as well as being the first smartphone remote control app that is integrated with Amazon Alexa.
There is a pretty good reason behind it, of course. It is a very reliable remote app that simply works with a lot of different appliances and devices. Sure, TVs are supported well on this app but, if you need something more, this is the app that you ought to get.
2. LG TV Remote by LG Electronics, Inc.
As the name suggests, LG TV remote is solely for televisions made by LG. While they are not as popular as Samsung or Sony, LG TVs are actually quite great. So, if you happen to own LG TV and want to control it with an Android device, this is the app you should get.
The biggest selling point of this app is that it’s made by LG and does not contain any kind of ads. It also doubles as a touchpad to control the pointer on the TV screen; that is if you have a smart TV. Making your smartphone touchscreen and a trackpad is a great idea for ease of use.
Note:
- This application is compatible only with LG Smart TVs which are released in 2012 or later.
- If you own an LG Smart TV released in 2011 or before, please use the “LG TV Remote 2011″ application.
- If you own an LG Smart TV released after 2012, please use the “LG TV Plus” application.
3. Universal TV Remote by WaveSpark
As with most of the highly-rated universal remotes out there, IR Universal TV Remote is exclusive only to phones that have an IR blaster. But, the app’s usability is not only limited to televisions and air conditioners. Turn your phone as a remote control for projectors, DVD players, fans, lights, and more. Such a thing is not a problem with IR Universal TV Remote.
On top of that, the app also works best with television that uses an antenna as the app conveniently finds the best direction to point the antenna for better viewing quality. A more in-depth review of this app can be found here.
4. Universal TV Remote by Twinone
Twinone makes it to this list of the best TV remote app for Android simply because it gets the job done using the smartphone’s built-in IR transmitter in controlling televisions and cable boxes It comes with only the basic remote functions which makes it a straightforward app, and only requires at least an Android 4.4 or better to use it.
Softonic even recommends it for kids because of its user-friendly interface design.
Suggested reads:
How to control Android phone remotely
How to Use Microsoft Remote Desktop for Android
5 Best Cell Phone Signal Booster for Remote Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
How do TV remote apps work?
TV remote apps allow you to basically control your TV using your smartphone! Some apps allows you to control even your WiFi. Amazing!
How to download a TV remote app?
Downloading TV remote apps is easy! Open your phone, open Google Play, search for the app and hit the download button!
What is the best TV remote app?
These apps are some of the best universal TV remote apps.
Listed in no particular order.
* Sure – Smart Home and TV Universal Remote
* LG TV Remote by LG Electronics, Inc.
* Universal TV Remote by WaveSpark
* Universal TV Remote by Twinone
Final Thoughts
These are some of the best TV remote app for Android. It is highly rewarding to see how much apps have improved over the years. In 2012, when these apps were first tested, they were not as fleshed out as they are today, especially AnyMote which came as a big surprise. The app has improved on numerous fronts albeit having the same interface.
So did any of these apps worked for you? If so, do let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear feedback from you guys.
I am looking for a Universal Remote App. (free) that will work on my Samsung GalaxyS5 and pair to 3 TVs in my basement which are not modern.
* A Panasonic which has an Omnivision 4head VHS Tape Recorder/FM RADIO (built in) as you can tell this is quite an old model (does the FM radio really mean music)? this is not connected to Comcast cable used only for VCR player.
The second TV is:
* Sylvania. Included is a Dolby Digital, Compact Disc Audio DVD Video player included, but…. the DVD video is broke so we do not use that, only the TV capability with Comcast connection. a DVD player is separately wired.
* 3rd TV is an “ILO” (I think) also says dolby digital SDTV. This also has a DVD player connected separately.
Is there a free application available to function all three of these televisions in my basement? Two of them are connected to Comcast.
my name goal is to have function of power and volume control possibly channel is that is an option. Thank you I hope that you were able to give me some advice.
Kind Redards,
Angela.
Hey, have you tried the WatchOn app which comes with Samsung smartphones? I use it on my Note 3 to control an old Sony TV and a DVD player. No idea about a VCR though. Get WatchOn and make in app “rooms” to configure 3 different TVs. I have almost 5 devices setup on that app. Good luck and keep me updated.
The only apps on this list that are worth installing are the LG, Panasonic and the Ir Smart Remote. The other two are so littered with ads that they most certainly do not belong on a top five list by any means. If you look only at the ratings and comments in the play store for these individual apps I don’t think many will be inclined to try them.
Personally I don’t understand why you included them in the first place. I feel like you’re promoting a sub par product and that makes me not put much stock into any of your other reviews.
Hi Chris,
I felt that too, you can check my reviews about the apps and you can clearly see me bashing on the ads. Unfortunately I was not able to find better alternatives. They are not THE Best apps sure but they are the ones which work making them better.
I’ve download 3 apps to use as a Remote for my TV. Previously I had a Samsung S5, it worked perfectly with the 55 inch LG TV, & a ROKU. SiiiicK with it but Now I have an Emerson 13 inch HDTV anybody…??? I cannot configure my phone …
Hi Chubbilu,
I will contact the author for to get answer for your problem. Will get back to you.
Hi Chubbilu,
What phone are you using? Is it the same samsung S5?
I have the samsung smart remote app on my phone whuch works fine for turning the tv on and off and adjusting volume but because we watch videos or movies from an external only i dont need the channel option amd cant find directional buttoms/ exit buttons etc yo browse through the external. Do any of the above apps have such a functionality? Wud greatly appreciate a rezponse dont want to waste my data possibly downloading incorrect apps?? Thank you
At the least this is more informative than one of our reality Television stars, kim who?
Joey what?
Sophia, I like Joey from FRIENDS 🙁
Do any of these apps allow you to assign volume up/down to the volume rocker buttons on the side of the phone? I’m looking to use a galaxy mega as a home theater remote and the only IR control I need is the volume. I’d like it to be more or less permanently assigned so I can just pick up the phone and change volume without going through any menus.
Evan,
Wow that is an amazing idea. I’ll check if any of the apps do this. This would make changing channels or volume a breeze for many. Thanks for your query.
Hi, Do any have the learning mode allowing you to duplicate the units remote? Thank you.
Chris W,
I don’t think so. I’ll check if there is something like this.
Hey I’m looking for a remote app for my Android phone for my Element TV
Hi Avayha,
Have you tried all of the apps listed in the article?
Smart Remote that was already on my Samsung Note 4 will work on an Element TV. I just programmed it in my phone. Only issue which im going to go back and look at is the volume isn’t working. It also worked with the Time Warner both that is attached to that TV.
IR Remote will not work with an Element TV, just FYI.
Hi Emily,
Thanks for your feedback.
I give all of these a 0 stars
none of them will work on my brand new emerson tv..
Plus with the pop up ads will drive anyone insane..
Plus why do all these apps want all your personal info..
Hi Joey,
It is unfortunate to hear that none of them worked for you. The author also bashed the the ads and too many ads can be annoying. Maybe there was some type of compatibility issue with your TV. Thanks for commenting.
I also have a brandnew 46 inch emerson and i have tried a couple but i havent had much luck do u know if any will work with emerson
Hi Adam,
That´s too bad that the apps didn´t work for you, but let me do some research and see what apps I can find for you that will work for your TV. I will get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks for commenting.
Mast
Hi Raja,
Is there something I can help you with?
Hey Guys,
I downgraded to a galaxy Grand Prime which does not include an IR Blaster Module, I need to find a TV remote app that works without the IR. I have tried soooooo many out there with no avail Can you please advice?
Thnx,
Vic
Hi Victor,
Have you tried Sony´s TV Sideview? It works over LAN that replicates the functions of the supplied IR remote. I hope this helps. =-)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sony.tvsideview.phone
Hi guys, has anyone tried Peel smart tv remote control? To me, it’s the best so far. That’s after installing the various apps mentioned earlier which didn’t work for me. I use an HTC by the way and I have no regrets.
Hi Larry,
Thanks for your suggestion, you sound very happy with it. I haven´t tried it, but I will when I get the chance. Thanks for commenting. =-)
I found an app that works with my Samsung 5S phone and turns my TV (a Toshiba) on and off and changes the channel but it won’t let me put in “digital” stations. For example, I’m trying to watch 50.1 and it will only let me watch channel 50 (which is nothing) or 51 (which is nothing). How do I fix this? Or, is there another app that will allow me to input the “.1”? Thanks!
nevermind. figured it out! 🙂
Hi Nina,
What did you figure out? =-)
Stop wasting your time, use Castreal IR remote, it is the best so far.
Hi Victor,
I´m glad that you found a remote control app that you are happy with, and thanks for your suggestion. How long have you been using it? =-)
I have a Samsung galaxy prime phone and no wifi…I have an Emerson 42 in tv that I lost the remote for…all the apps I’ve tried don’t work. Can anyone help plz!?
Hi Luke,
Have you checked to see if your phone and TV are compatible? That could be the reason why none of the apps that you are trying are working.=-)
Help me! I have an old box Emerson TV and a ZTE phone. I know they both are cheap. I just need to get it to go to input so I can watch movies on the XBox 360 my neighbor is lending me. Please help!!! I also have a kindle fire and WiFi.
That’s a lot of devices. what are you trying to stream the movies from, the Xbox or the phone?
Hey!! I highly recommend “Sure” remote for Android. Haven’t had any issues at all.
Hi Dave,
Thanks for the suggestion.
Its not working ….Im trying too much time . But still not working .. …
Tell me someone what to do..plz
What app are you having trouble with?
Peel Is Best Apps
What app works best for older tv’s (2009 19 inch vizio) or other appliances that isn’t newer
As long as your device has an IR transmitter, any of the apps listed here that doesn’t require a wifi signal would be an excellent choice.