In today’s digital age, the smartphone has become a universal tool for managing various aspects of our lives, including controlling our televisions.
With the right app, your smartphone can replace traditional TV remotes, offering more functionality and convenience. Here’s a rundown of the best apps to control your TV remote on your cell phone.
1. Peel Smart Remote
Platform: Android, iOS
Best for: Universal TV control with a user-friendly interface
Peel Smart Remote is a comprehensive app that transforms your smartphone into a universal TV remote. It supports a wide range of TV brands and models, as well as other devices like set-top boxes, streaming devices, and home entertainment systems.
The app also offers personalized recommendations based on your viewing habits.
Pros:
- Easy setup and use
- Supports multiple devices
- Personalized TV guide
Cons:
- Contains ads in the free version
2. Sure Universal Remote
Platform: Android, iOS
Best for: Versatile home control
Sure Universal Remote is another excellent app that allows you to control your TV and other smart devices in your home.
It supports a wide variety of devices, including air conditioners, media players, and smart home gadgets. The app uses both infrared (IR) and Wi-Fi to connect to devices, making it highly versatile.
Pros:
- Supports IR and Wi-Fi devices
- User-friendly interface
- Extensive device compatibility
Cons:
- Some advanced features require a subscription
3. Roku
Platform: Android, iOS
Best for: Controlling Roku devices
The Roku app is specifically designed for Roku streaming devices and smart TVs.
It provides a full remote control experience, including voice search, private listening with headphones, and easy access to your favorite channels and streaming services.
The app also allows you to cast photos and videos from your phone to your TV.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Roku devices
- Voice search functionality
- Private listening feature
Cons:
- Limited to Roku devices
4. Google Home
Platform: Android, iOS
Best for: Controlling Chromecast and other Google devices
Google Home is the go-to app for managing Google’s ecosystem of smart devices, including Chromecast.
It allows you to control your TV by casting content from various streaming services directly from your smartphone.
The app also integrates with other Google smart home devices, offering a centralized control hub.
Pros:
- Integration with Google services
- Easy content casting
- Centralized control for Google devices
Cons:
- Limited to Google-compatible devices
5. Amazon Fire TV
Platform: Android, iOS
Best for: Controlling Amazon Fire TV devices
The Amazon Fire TV app offers a robust solution for controlling Amazon Fire TV devices.
It includes features like voice search, a virtual keyboard, and easy access to your favorite apps and games.
The app also supports Alexa voice commands, enhancing the overall user experience.
Pros:
- Voice search with Alexa integration
- Virtual keyboard
- Seamless access to Fire TV content
Cons:
- Limited to Amazon Fire TV devices
6. SmartThings
Platform: Android, iOS
Best for: Controlling Samsung TVs and smart home devices
SmartThings by Samsung is an all-in-one app for managing Samsung smart TVs and other smart home devices.
It offers a user-friendly interface, voice control, and integration with other smart home systems. The app allows you to control not just your TV but also a wide range of Samsung smart appliances.
Pros:
- Comprehensive control for Samsung devices
- Voice control capabilities
- Integration with smart home systems
Cons:
- Best suited for Samsung devices
Conclusion
The best apps to control your TV remote on your cell phone offer a combination of ease-of-use, broad compatibility, and additional features that enhance the viewing experience.
Whether you use Peel Smart Remote, Sure Universal Remote, Roku, Google Home, Amazon Fire TV, or SmartThings, each app provides unique benefits that cater to different needs and preferences.
Choose the app that best fits your devices and enjoy the convenience of controlling your TV right from your smartphone.