While Bluetooth tracking technology has become pretty advanced, one thing you unfortunately can’t use precision finding to locate or easily slap anAirTagon is perhaps one of the most often misplaced items – theTV remote. With a habit of hiding under that one cushion I didn’t happen to look under or slipping behind the couch, I ask myself or my roommate at least once a day “where could I have placed that remote?”
Even when I haven’t misplaced my remote, I use my iPhone’s keyboard function to log in to search for a movie title rather than manually using the arrows to click around the TV keyboard.
5 reasons I switched from Fire TV devices to Roku
Multi-functional with a cleaner home screen and content personalization have me wondering why I didn’t ditch Fire TV sooner.
Luckily, my iPhone easily connects to my Roku-enabled TV, and can act as a remote that can be even more functional than the streaming stick itself. For example, even when I haven’t misplaced my remote, I’ll use myiPhone’s keyboardfunction to log in to one of my streaming accounts or search for a movie title rather than manually using the arrows to click around the TV keyboard.
So, whether you’ve lost your remote or just want a streamlined TV navigation experience, here’s how to use your phone as a Roku remote.
How to use your phone as a Roku TV remote
While I have an iPhone, the Roku app is available to download on bothiOS and Android devices, and both iPhone’s and Android alike can function as a Roku remote.
Roku remote app
At the top of the remote display there’s also a microphone icon for voice search functionality and a keyboard to type. I use both and find them more helpful than I do the in-box remote.
Q: Can you turn your Roku TV off from your phone?
Yes. The phone remote function has a power button which you can use to both turn the TV on and off. I find that it has a bit of a lag compared to the in-box remote, but it eventually powers off just the same.
Q: Can you control Roku TV volume from your phone?
Yes. Another perk is the ability to turn the volume up, down, or even mute the TV straight from your phone.
Q: Can you use your Roku TV if you break your remote?
Yes. Even if your in-box remote is completely displaced, lost, or accidentally went through a wash cycle, you can still power and control your Roku TV from your phone.
