Using your phone as a remote for Samsung TV transforms the way you interact with your home entertainment setup. Instead of juggling multiple controllers, you can rely on a familiar touchscreen to change channels, adjust volume, and navigate smart menus. This method works with both Android and iOS devices, leveraging built-in technologies like IR blasters, Wi‑Fi, and Bluetooth.
Native Samsung SmartThings Ecosystem
The most seamless experience comes from the SmartThings platform integrated into many Samsung TVs. Your TV connects to your home Wi‑Fi network and appears as a device within the SmartThings app. This allows for two-way communication, enabling you to power the TV on or off, switch inputs, and control volume directly from your phone. Because the connection is over Wi‑Fi, it does not require line-of-sight like a traditional infrared remote.
To set this up, ensure your television runs on Tizen OS and is linked to the same network as your phone. Open the SmartThings app, grant necessary permissions, and the TV should appear automatically under the Home dashboard. You can then create custom routines, such as turning on the TV and switching to a specific app with a single tap. This method offers the most reliable and feature-rich control experience without needing extra hardware.
Using the Samsung TV Remote App
Samsung provides an official solution through the TV Remote app, available for both Android and iOS. This app turns your phone into a virtual remote that mirrors the layout of a physical Samsung remote. It connects to the TV over Wi‑Fi, bypassing the need for an IR blaster entirely. The interface includes a directional pad, number pad, and function buttons for power, source, and smart hub navigation.
To get started, download the official "Samsung TV Remote" app from Google Play Store or the App Store. Ensure your phone and TV are on the same local network, then follow the in-app instructions to pair the devices. Once connected, you can use your phone to browse live TV, access streaming apps, and even type search queries using the on-screen keyboard. This official tool is the most straightforward method for users who want an authentic remote experience.
IR Blaster Method for Non-Smart or Older Models
For Samsung TVs that do not support smart features or Wi‑Fi connectivity, the IR blaster method bridges the gap using older hardware. Many modern smartphones contain an infrared emitter, usually located near the top of the device. By using a dedicated IR app, you can send standard infrared signals that mimic the codes of a physical remote.
To use this method, download a reputable IR remote app such as "AnyMote" or "IR Universal TV Remote." Point your phone’s IR blaster at the sensor on the bottom of the TV, select the Samsung preset within the app, and follow the prompts to complete setup. While this requires precise alignment between the phone and the TV, it serves as an excellent backup for living rooms without smart capabilities.
Universal Remote Apps and Code Learning
If the official app does not recognize your specific TV model, third‑party universal remote apps offer an alternative solution. These applications often contain a vast database of device codes, allowing your phone to mimic the remote for dozens of brands. However, success depends heavily on whether your exact Samsung model is supported within the app’s library.
Download a universal remote app like "Remote Control for TV" or "Unified Remote."
Ensure your phone has an IR blaster; test it by pointing at a digital clock to see if it blinks.
Select the television category and search for the code specific to your Samsung model.
Point the phone at the TV and test each function after the app detects a response.
While this method is versatile, it may introduce slight lag or inconsistent button responsiveness compared to native Wi‑Fi control.
