“Oh no! I lost my remote! How will I use my smart TV now?”
Does this problem sound familiar?
Or maybe your smart TV remote got broken. How about not getting one with your new TV?
Remote controls make your viewing experience so much easier. But these things do happen.
Don’t worry. Whichever issue it may be. I got you covered.
So how do you use your smart TV without a remote?
Read on to find out:
- If you can use your smart TV without a remote.
- Where to find the TV controller on your smart TV.
- How to use the SmartThings app to control your smart TV.
- 5 easy ways to control your smart TV using another device.
- How to do content screen mirroring on your smart TV even without a remote.
- And a lot more…
Can I use my smart TV without a remote?
You can use your smart TV without a remote. This is possible by pressing the control buttons found on the TV itself. You can also pair your smart TV with the SmartThings app. Or you can launch the Samsung TV Remote app. Another way is to use the TV Smart View app or a streaming device.
How to use smart TV without remote: 5 ways
#1: Use the control buttons on the TV
Did you know? All Samsung TVs have a TV controller. This lets you access most Smart TV settings by manually pressing it.
Watch this video to learn more:
The features you can control include:
- Adjusting the volume.
- Operating the Smart Hub.
- Turning the TV on and off.
- Changing the source input.
- Customizing the Menu and Settings.
Though limited, this is sufficient for you to get the best out of your smart TV.
“Where can I find my TV’s controller?”
The location of your TV controller depends on your smart TV’s model. You can also check your TV’s manual or here.
The 3 main places of your smart TV that you should check are:
- At the back.
- Below the front panel on the side.
- Under the front panel in the middle.
The TV controller on most models is found on the back. Specifically, in the bottom right corner. You can toggle the control stick; up and down and side to side.
You’ll see specific buttons for volume, menu, and source input.
Push the middle button. And you’ll see the menu on the screen. Hold this button, and your TV will turn on.
Some 2018 models have the TV controller under the front panel on one side.
#2: Connect your TV to the SmartThings app
“But I don’t want to stand up to pause and play episodes!”
I get it. We just want to lay on our couch. Not having to lift a toe to access our TVs.
But guess what? You can use your phone or tablet as a remote control.
All thanks to the SmartThings app!
“What is the SmartThings app?”
It’s a universal app that’s available on both Android and iOS. It allows you to control Samsung and other SmartThings-compatible devices.
These devices include smart home products like TVs and thermostats.
Further reading: Samsung SmartThings: What It Is & How To Use It
“How do I pair my smart TV to the SmartThings app?”
Be sure to download the SmartThings app first. Then, you’re ready to connect. Instructions differ between Android and iOS.
To add your smart TV to the SmartThings app on an Android:
- Turn on your smart TV’s Bluetooth.
- Launch the SmartThings app.
- Select the Devices tab.
- Tap the Home icon.
- Choose your preferred location for the device.
- Select the Add icon. It looks like a plus sign.
- Tap Add Device.
- Click Scan nearby.
- Once your smart TV appears, select it. Instructions will appear on screen.
To add your smart TV to the SmartThings app on an iPhone:
- Turn on your smart TV’s Bluetooth.
- Launch the SmartThings app.
- Select the Devices tab, then Home.
- Enter your desired location.
- Hit the Add icon. Then, Scan nearby.
- If you see your smart TV on the list, select it. Instructions will appear.
“What can I do with the SmartThings app?”
Once your smart TV has been added, you can now control it!
You’ll see a remote in the SmartThings app. The buttons available depend on your smart TV’s model.
You can toggle the volume and channel buttons. Just like the physical remote.
For the settings, press the arrows or the gray box on the bottom. To select an item, tap anywhere.
#3: Download the Samsung TV Remote app
Amazingly, there’s more than one app that can save you from your remote control issues.
Introducing the Samsung TV remote app.
The downside – It’s available for Google Play only.
This app looks exactly like the smart TV remote. The only difference is that it’s on your phone or tablet screen!
“Does my device work with the Smart TV remote app?”
As long as you have an infrared port or a Wi-Fi network at home – this app will work smoothly with your smart TV.
Connecting through Wi-Fi can be done with C, D, E, F, K, and M Samsung TVs. These are all beyond 2016. H and F models are incompatible
Infrared connection is possible with devices that have IR blasters.
These devices include:
- Huawei Mate and Honor.
- HTC ONE.
- LG G3, G4, and G5.
- Samsung Galaxy S.
- Huawei Mate and Honor.
- Xiaomi, Redmi, and Note Series.
Finished downloading the Samsung TV remote app? Now, to connect your devices.
“How do I connect the app using Wi-Fi?”
Keep your Wi-Fi on to continue the process.
Step 1: Turn on your smart TV.
Step 2: Connect your phone or tablet and your smart TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
Step 3: An “accept device” message will appear on your TV. Confirm it.
If you rejected the “accept device” message:
Step 1: Go to Menu, then General Settings.
Step 2: Select External Device Manager, then Device Connection Manager.
Step 3: Choose Device List. Select your phone or tablet.
Note: Saw a PIN code on your TV? This means your device is incompatible with the app.
“How do I connect the app using infrared?”
Have an IR blaster ready. Point it directly at the TV.
The app would work well within 4 to 10 ft (1-3 meters). Be sure that your phone has no less than 30% battery or power saving mode is disabled. This is for the app to function.
Reading recommendation: Smart TV Remote Not Working: 8 Causes & Fixes
#4: Make use of TV Smart View
Is your smart TV mainly for YouTube, Netflix, and other video platforms?
Then, a screen mirroring app may be your best bet.
With the TV Smart View app, you can cast videos and other content on your smart TV.
Pause, play, and navigate within your phone or tablet. So no more getting up and crouching down by your TV.
The TV Smart View app is available on Android and iOS devices.
“How do I know if my device can work with the TV Smart View app?”
Be sure to check that your smart TV:
- Can support Wireless Display.
- Is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone or tablet.
For Android, your device should be Android 4.2 and above. And for Apple, your device must have iOS 12.0 or later.
“What can I do with the TV Smart View app?”
With this app, you’ll be able to watch your favorite TV series, YouTube videos, and movies – all controlled on your phone or tablet.
If you’re a teacher or office worker, you can display presentations on the smart TV. Simply swipe through slides on your device.
Gamers can also show their progress on the screen. And share with fellow enthusiasts. All while playing on a separate device.
“What if I don’t have enough storage to use the app?”
Your Android and iOS device has a built-in screen mirroring feature.
Instructions may differ for each operating system.
To do screen mirroring on your Android:
- Make sure your Android is connected to the same Wi-Fi as your smart TV.
- Go to Settings.
- Launch Screen Mirroring or Screencast.
- A list of devices will appear. Select your smart TV.
- A connect process will follow. Make sure to confirm it on either your phone or TV.
- Wait for your Android screen to appear on your smart TV.
To do screen mirroring on your Apple device:
- Connect your device to the same network as your smart TV.
- Launch Control Center.
- Select Screen Mirroring.
- A list of devices will appear. Select your smart TV.
- A connect process will follow. Confirm it. Or if a passcode shows, enter it on your device.
You might also like: How to connect a non-smart TV to your phone?
#5: Navigate with an external streaming device
Here are more options for streaming lovers.
If hitting play, pause, and “next episode” are your main priorities…
Getting a streaming stick may be the way to go.
External streaming devices come with a USB stick or a box. The latter may look like your typical cable box. And also, a remote control.
Having this, you’ll be able to maneuver your smart TV’s settings and your favorite content.
“What are the best external streaming devices for smart TVs?”
Streaming devices you may want to consider are:
- Apple TV.
- Google Chromecast.
- Amazon TV Fire Stick.
- Roku 4K Streaming Stick.
“Why should I get an external streaming device?”
Buying a streaming stick or box definitely resolves your missing remote issues.
Also, you’ll enjoy TV series and films or play your most loved games on any compatible smart TV.
The streaming devices are extremely portable. You can take the fun wherever you go – as long as you or a friend has a smart TV.