Modern smartphones of the brand Samsung have functionality that significantly exceeds the standard tasks of calls and messages. One of the most popular features is the use of the device as universal remote control. This solution allows you to get rid of the need to look for a lost plastic remote control or buy a new one if it breaks.
Samsung phone owners often wonder how to download special software for controlling household appliances. The installation and configuration process depends on the specific model of your gadget and the type of TV. Some devices are equipped with built-in infrared transmitter, while others rely solely on a wireless connection Wi-Fi. Understanding these differences is critical for successful integration.
In this article we will take a detailed look at all available connection methods. You'll learn which apps are the most reliable, how to set up connectivity over your home network, and what to do if the automatic device search doesn't work. By following the instructions, you can regain full control of your TV in a matter of minutes.
Hardware capabilities of Samsung smartphones: IR and Wi-Fi
The first step before downloading any software, you need to find out the technical characteristics of your smartphone. Early Samsung models, such as the Galaxy S4 or Note 3series, were equipped with built-in infrared port (IR Blaster). This physical module allowed the phone to imitate the signals of a regular remote control, working even without an Internet connection.
However, in modern models released after 2016, the manufacturer abandoned the installation of IR ports in favor of a thinner body and water protection. This means that technology is now used to control equipment Wi-Fi Direct or a connection via a local network. If you have a new flagship, you will need both your phone and TV to be on the same network.
⚠️ Warning: Attempting to install applications that require an infrared port on modern Samsung models without this module will result in control functions not working. Always check the device specifications before choosing a connection method.
To check for the presence of an IR port, inspect the top end of the case for the presence of a small black window. If it is not there, the only working option is to use network protocols. In this case, stability of operation depends on the quality of the signal of your router and the TV's support for the function Smart TV.
TOP applications for controlling a TV on Android
The store Google Play Store offers hundreds of solutions for replacing the remote control, but not all of them work correctly with the Samsung ecosystem. Choosing the right app depends on the brand of your TV. For Samsung equipment, the optimal solution is the official application SmartThings, which is preinstalled on most devices or is available for download.
If your TV belongs to another manufacturer, for example LG, Sony or Xiaomi, you should pay attention to universal combines. Applications Peel Smart Remote and AnyMoteare considered market leaders. They have extensive code bases and an intuitive interface that allows you to quickly find the model you need.
- 📱 SmartThings —an official solution from Samsung with deep integration into the One UI system.
- 📺 Peel Smart Remote —a universal application with a TV guide function and support for thousands of models.
- 🔌 Sure Universal Remote —a powerful tool for advanced users with macro support.
- 📡 Mi Remote is a simple and lightweight application that works even on devices without an infrared port (via Wi-Fi).
When installing third-party software, pay attention to the requested permissions. Some free versions may contain intrusive advertising that obscures controls. Paid versions are often devoid of advertising and offer advanced functionality such as voice control or creating scripts.
Before installing the application, go to your phone's settings and check if the power saving mode is turned on, which may block background operation of the remote control.
Step-by-step setup through the SmartThings app
For owners of Samsung TVs, the setup process simplified as much as possible thanks to the manufacturer’s ecosystem. The application SmartThings automatically scans the network for compatible devices. To get started, make sure that your phone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi access point.
Launch the application and go to the tab Devices. Click on the + icon in the upper corner of the screen to add a new gadget. The system will prompt you to select the device type; in this case we are interested in the category TV. The application will begin searching for available displays on the local network.
Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi → Select your networkAs soon as the TV is found, a request to confirm pairing will appear on its screen. Use the buttons on the TV itself or an old remote control to press Allow. After this, a virtual remote control with a full set of buttons will appear on the smartphone screen, including navigation, volume and selection of signal sources.
☑️ Setting up SmartThings
Important Please note that some functions, such as screen casting or using the phone as a touchpad, may require you to log in to a single account Samsung Account. This ensures synchronization of settings and allows you to control the device even from another room if the network covers the entire apartment.
Connecting universal remote controls for third-party TVs
If your TV is not a Samsung product, you will need a universal solution. The operating principle of such applications is based on the selection of a digital code that matches the model of your receiver. The process may take a little longer, but the result is worth it.
Download the application of your choice, for example Peel Smart Remote, and start the setup procedure. You will be asked to select your TV brand from a list. After selection, signal testing will begin: the application will send on/off commands, and you will need to confirm the TV’s response by pressing the button Yes or No.
| TV Brand | Recommended application | Connection type | Setting complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung | SmartThings | Wi-Fi / IR (old) | Low |
| LG | LG ThinQ | Wi-Fi | Low |
| Sony | Video & TV SideView | Wi-Fi | Medium |
| Xiaomi / Mi | Mi Remote | IR / Wi-Fi | Low |
| Old models | ZaZa Remote | IR (transmitter needed) | High |
In some cases, automatic code selection may not work. Then you will have to manually enter the code, which can be found in the instructions for the TV or on the website of the application manufacturer. This is a more labor-intensive process, but it guarantees compatibility even with rare models.
What to do if the code does not match?
If the automatic search did not find your TV, try selecting “Other” or “Generic” from the list. Often, universal codes are suitable for many devices of different brands, especially if the TV was released more than 5 years ago.
Solving problems with connection and visibility
Often users are faced with a situation where the application is installed, but the TV is not displayed in the list of available devices. The most common reason is that the devices are on different subnets. This often happens if you have a dual-band router that distributes 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks with different names.
Make sure that both gadgets are connected to the same frequency. Also check the firewall settings on the router: the AP Isolation (client isolation) function prevents devices from seeing each other on the local network. This option must be disabled in the router settings.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and security settings may vary depending on the provider and equipment model. If you are unsure of your actions, contact the technical support of your Internet provider before changing network settings.
Another reason for failures may be outdated TV software. Manufacturers regularly release updates to correct communication protocol errors. Go to the TV menu, find the section Support and check for system updates.
90% of connection problems are solved by checking that the phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network (same frequency range).
Using the phone as a touchpad and keyboard
One of the main advantages of using a smartphone instead of a regular remote control is ability to enter text. Entering movie titles, login and password for applications through a standard remote control with buttons is an extremely tedious task. The phone solves this problem instantly.
In applications like SmartThings a touchpad mode is implemented. The phone screen becomes a touchpad: dragging your finger across the display moves the cursor on the TV screen. Double tapping imitates a click, and swiping imitates scrolling pages. This makes navigating the Smart TV menu much faster and more convenient.
In addition, many applications support the voice search function. Instead of typing a request, you simply press the microphone button on the phone screen and dictate the name of the movie or channel. The system recognizes speech and immediately produces results, saving your time.
- 🎬 Quick input — typing text for YouTube and browsers is carried out using the full keyboard of the smartphone.
- 🖱️ Mode mouse — cursor control via the phone's touch screen for precise navigation.
- 🎤 Voice assistant —use the phone’s built-in microphone to search for content.
This functionality turns the smartphone into a powerful multimedia control center. You can not only switch channels, but also fully interact with the TV operating system using familiar gestures and input tools.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can you use your phone as a remote control if it does not have an IR port?
Yes, this is possible, but only if your TV supports the function Smart TV and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone. An infrared port is only needed to control older TV models that do not have a network module.
Why doesn’t the SmartThings application see my TV?
Most often, the problem lies in the fact that the devices are connected to different Wi-Fi networks (for example, one to the guest network, the other to the main one) or to different frequencies of the router. Also check if an antivirus or firewall is blocking the connection.
Will the remote control work if the Internet is turned off?
If control is carried out via Wi-Fi, then the Internet is not required, but the local network must work (the router must be turned on). If you have an old phone with an infrared port, then the control will work completely autonomously, without the participation of a router.
Is it safe to give the application access to the microphone and geolocation?
Access to the microphone is required for the voice search function. Geolocation is often required by Android to find devices on a Wi-Fi network, as it is considered part of location settings. These permissions are safe for official applications.
Is it possible to turn off the TV through an application if it is frozen?
If the TV is completely frozen and does not respond to network commands, a software shutdown through the app may not work. In this case, the IR port (if there is one) has a better chance of sending a shutdown signal, since it emulates a physical button. In extreme cases, you will have to turn off the power to the TV manually.