How to use your smart TV without remote

We all, at some point, have compromised on our midnight binge sessions just because the remote’s battery suddenly died. Having no spare battery, losing your remote or dealing with a malfunctioning remote can be a real mood spoiler. But worry not – if you own a smart TV, there are multiple ways to make you stay tuned to your world of entertainment, even without a remote. Wondering how? Check out the following tips and tricks to access your smart TV without a remote.

3 ways to use a smart TV without remote

Following are three ways you can access your smart TV without a physical remote.

Wi-Fi remote app

Regular TV remotes have an Infrared (IR) blaster for controlling your TV. Similarly, IR blasters are also available on some smartphones. If your mobile comes with such a feature, make sure the two devices are connected to the same network.

If you are using an Android phone, you can download the Universal TV Remote Control app from the Play Store. While iOS users can download the TV Remote app from the Apple Store.

ALSO READ: How to connect a phone to a TV

Once you launch the app, select your TV brand and point your smartphone towards the TV. Pair the app with your TV by following the on-screen instructions, and voila – it’s done!

Manufacturer remote app

Almost all the reputed smart TV brands have developed an app version of their remotes. If you can’t get your work done with the physical remote, look for the manufacturer remote app on the app store and download it.

For instance, TCL offers the TCL Home app, Samsung has the SmartThings app, and Sony has the SonyMote app for you to access your TV from the convenience of your smartphone. Once you run the app, pair your TV by selecting the model number, and you are good to go.

Physical switches on the TV

All TVs (smart and traditional) have physical switches either on the top, side or bottom of the body. You’re likely to find a panel of switches from which you can navigate up or down, left and right. You can also control the volume and adjust the brightness directly from these physical switches.

Pros and Cons of using the above methods

Wi-Fi remote apps and manufacturer apps provide the quickest and most convenient solution to access your TV like a breeze. But these apps tend to malfunction due to update issues if either the TV operating system or the app is not updated on time.

Physical switches, on the other hand, are devoid of any such technical hassles. These can be utilised regardless of any situation. But it’s best to save them just for emergency usage as the physical side panel is very sensitive and is directly connected to the smart TV. Any undue pressure or repetitive usage of one or two switches can lead to damage to the entire control panel, which may cost you a hefty to get repaired.

Though the above alternate methods are cool, and convenient, it is always advised to consider these solutions as temporary resolutions and get a manufacturer remote as soon as possible.