Using your iPhone as a TV remote simplifies your Apple TV experience. You can control your Apple TV with just a few taps on your iPhone screen. No extra remote to worry about or batteries to replace – just the phone you already carry everywhere.
Setting up the remote feature takes only seconds. Open Control Center on your iPhone by swiping down from the top-right corner, then tap the Apple TV Remote button. Your iPhone instantly transforms into a fully functional remote that lets you navigate menus, adjust volume, and control playback.
The iPhone remote offers more than just basic controls. You can use buttons instead of swipe gestures for precise navigation, type text using your iPhone keyboard instead of the clunky on-screen version, and even use Siri to find content with voice commands. Some users have found they can create a shortcut on their home screen for even faster access.
How To Use Your iPhone As An Apple TV Remote
If you’ve misplaced your Apple TV Remote or just prefer using your iPhone, you can easily control your Apple TV with your iPhone’s built-in remote feature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to turning your iPhone into an Apple TV remote.
1. Ensure Your Devices Are Connected to the Same Wi-Fi Network
For your iPhone to control your Apple TV, both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network.
Steps:
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Wi-Fi and confirm the connection.
- On your Apple TV, go to Settings > Network to verify it’s connected to the same network.
2. Access the Apple TV Remote in Control Center
The Apple TV Remote is already built into your iPhone’s Control Center if you’re running iOS 12 or later.
Steps:
- Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen (iPhone X or newer) or swipe up from the bottom edge (older iPhones) to open Control Center.
- Tap the Apple TV Remote icon (it looks like a remote).
- If you don’t see the remote icon:
- Go to Settings > Control Center.
- Scroll down and tap the plus (+) icon next to Apple TV Remote to add it.
3. Choose Your Apple TV
When you open the remote:
- A list of available Apple TV devices will appear.
- Select your Apple TV from the list.
- If prompted, enter the 4-digit code that appears on your TV screen to pair your iPhone.
4. Start Controlling Your Apple TV
Once connected, you can:
- Swipe or tap the touchpad area to navigate.
- Use the Menu, Home, and Play/Pause buttons.
- Adjust the volume if your Apple TV is connected through HDMI-CEC.
- Use the keyboard on your iPhone to quickly enter text in search bars or login screens.
- Control Siri by holding the Microphone button.
5. Turn Off or Sleep Apple TV from iPhone Remote
At any time, you can:
- Tap and hold the Home button (TV icon) in the remote.
- Select Sleep to put your Apple TV to sleep.
By using the built-in remote on your iPhone, you can control your Apple TV easily without needing the physical remote.
Key Takeaways
- Your iPhone works as an Apple TV remote with no additional hardware needed.
- Access the remote quickly through Control Center or a custom shortcut.
- The iPhone remote offers keyboard typing and voice control features that physical remotes don’t have.
Preparation
Before using your iPhone as an Apple TV remote, you need to make sure everything is set up correctly. This involves checking device compatibility, downloading the necessary app, and connecting to the right network.
Ensure Compatibility
To use your iPhone as an Apple TV remote, you need compatible devices. Your iPhone should be running iOS 12 or later, though newer features may require more recent iOS versions. Most Apple TV models work with the iPhone remote feature, including Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD. Older Apple TV models (3rd generation or earlier) may have limited compatibility.
Check your iOS version by going to Settings > General > About on your iPhone. If you need to update, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
The remote feature works with both iPhones and iPads. This gives you flexibility to use whichever device is handy when you need to control your Apple TV.
Download the Apple TV Remote App
Newer iPhones (iOS 12 and above) have the Apple TV Remote built into Control Center. No separate download is needed. To check if you have it:
- Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open Control Center
- Look for the Apple TV Remote icon
- If it’s not there, go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls
- Tap the “+” next to Apple TV Remote to add it
For older iOS versions, you might need to download the Apple TV Remote app from the App Store. Simply search “Apple TV Remote” and install the official Apple app.
Connect to the Same Wi-Fi Network
Your iPhone and Apple TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network to work together. This connection allows the devices to find and communicate with each other.
- Open Settings
- Tap Wi-Fi
- Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on
- Check which network is connected
For your Apple TV’s network:
- Go to Settings on your Apple TV
- Select Network
- Verify the connected Wi-Fi name
If they’re not on the same network, connect one device to match the other. Once both are on the same network, your iPhone should automatically detect your Apple TV when you open the remote feature in Control Center.
If you have multiple Apple TVs, you’ll be able to select which one to control from your iPhone.
Setting Up Remote Functionality
Your iPhone can quickly become a powerful remote for your Apple TV. The setup process is simple and gives you full control without needing the physical remote.
Pair Your iPhone with Apple TV
To begin using your iPhone as an Apple TV remote, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. This connection is essential for them to communicate properly.
Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap Control Center. Look for “Apple TV Remote” in the list of controls.
If you don’t see it in the Included Controls section, find it under More Controls and tap the plus sign (+) to add it.
Once added, your iPhone is ready to pair with your Apple TV. The first time you use the remote feature, your iPhone will search for nearby Apple TVs. Select your device from the list that appears.
A four-digit code will display on your TV screen. Enter this code on your iPhone to complete the pairing process.
Customize Remote Settings
After pairing, you can adjust how your iPhone remote works to fit your needs.
Open Control Center and long-press the Apple TV Remote icon. This opens the Remote app with all control options.
The main screen shows a touch area for navigation. Swipe in any direction to move through menus, and tap to select items.
The app includes buttons for:
- Menu/Back: Returns to previous screens
- Home: Takes you to the Apple TV home screen
- Play/Pause: Controls media playback
- Volume: Adjusts TV volume (if your TV supports HDMI-CEC)
You can also tap the microphone icon to use Siri commands for searching content or controlling playback. Say things like “Play Ted Lasso” or “Rewind 30 seconds.”
Access Apple TV Through Control Center
The fastest way to control your Apple TV is through Control Center. This method gives you instant access without opening any apps.
To open Control Center on newer iPhones, swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen. On older models, swipe up from the bottom edge.
Tap the Apple TV Remote icon. If you have multiple Apple TVs, select the one you want to control from the list that appears.
For faster access, you can create a shortcut on your home screen. This lets you bypass Control Center entirely.
You can also use the search function. Swipe down on your home screen and type “Remote” in the search bar. The Apple TV Remote option will appear in the results.
Using the Remote Control
Once you set up your iPhone as an Apple TV remote, you’ll have access to all the functionality of a physical remote right on your phone screen. The interface is simple to use but offers powerful controls for navigating, typing, using voice commands, and controlling media playback.
Navigate the Apple TV Interface
The Apple TV Remote app turns your iPhone’s screen into a touch surface similar to the Siri Remote. To navigate, simply swipe your finger across the touch area to move through the Apple TV menu options.
For selecting items, tap once on the touch surface. This works the same way as pressing the center button on a physical remote.
To go back to the previous screen, press the Menu button located at the bottom of the remote interface. This button works as your “back” function throughout the Apple TV system.
For quick access to the home screen, press and hold the Menu button for a couple of seconds. This saves time when you need to exit an app completely.
Utilize the Keyboard Function
One big advantage of using your iPhone as a remote is the keyboard feature. When a text field appears on Apple TV, your iPhone automatically displays a keyboard.
This makes typing usernames, passwords, and search terms much faster than using the on-screen keyboard with a standard remote. Simply type what you need using your familiar iPhone keyboard.
For passwords and sensitive information, the keyboard maintains privacy by showing what you type on your phone rather than the TV screen.
To access the keyboard manually at any time, tap the keyboard icon in the remote app. This is particularly useful when searching for content across different apps.
The keyboard also supports predictive text and autocorrect, making your text entry even faster and more accurate.
Interact with Siri for Voice Commands
The iPhone remote includes full Siri functionality, allowing you to control your Apple TV with just your voice. To activate Siri, press and hold the Siri button on the remote interface.
You can use commands like:
- “Show me comedy movies”
- “Skip ahead 10 minutes”
- “What did they say?” (to temporarily enable captions)
- “Find shows with Jennifer Aniston”
Siri can also help with system-wide functions like adjusting volume, turning on subtitles, or checking weather and sports scores without interrupting your viewing.
For hands-free control, you can use Siri to open apps, play specific content, or control playback while doing other things around the house.
Managing Playback Controls
The playback controls on your iPhone remote are intuitive and easy to use. The main play/pause button toggles between playing and pausing your content with a single tap.
To rewind or fast-forward, swipe left or right on the touch surface. The longer or faster you swipe, the more it skips through content.
For precise control, you can also use the 10-second skip buttons that appear during playback. Tap the left arrow to go back 10 seconds or the right arrow to skip ahead.
Volume controls are available directly on the remote interface. Adjust volume by tapping the volume up or down buttons, or use your iPhone’s physical volume buttons in some cases.
During video playback, you can also access additional options by swiping down from the top of the touch surface, revealing chapters, subtitles, and audio options.
Advanced Remote Features
Your iPhone offers powerful options beyond basic Apple TV control. These features let you switch apps faster, manage smart home devices, and stream content directly from your phone.
Use the App Switcher
The Apple TV Remote on iPhone includes an App Switcher feature that makes jumping between apps quick and easy. This feature works on both Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD models.
To access the App Switcher:
- Double-press the TV button in the virtual remote
- Swipe left or right to browse open apps
- Tap an app to switch to it
This works just like the App Switcher on your iPhone, making it familiar to use. You can also force-close apps by swiping up on them in the switcher view.
When watching a show, the App Switcher helps you quickly check sports scores or weather without losing your place in a movie. It’s much faster than going back to the home screen each time.
Controlling Smart Home Devices
The iPhone can control both your Apple TV and smart home devices from one place. This setup creates a central control hub for your entire entertainment system.
You can:
- Dim lights while starting a movie
- Adjust thermostat settings without pausing your show
- Control compatible speakers for better sound
To set this up, make sure your smart devices are added to the Home app on your iPhone. Then you can access them while using the Apple TV remote by swiping to Control Center.
This integration works best when your Apple TV is set as a Home Hub. Many users find this feature saves time compared to using separate apps for each device.
Stream with AirPlay
Your iPhone lets you stream content directly to Apple TV using AirPlay. This feature works for photos, videos, music, and even mirroring your entire screen.
To use AirPlay:
- Open the content you want to stream
- Tap the AirPlay icon (looks like a TV with a triangle)
- Choose your Apple TV from the list
- Use your iPhone as a remote while content plays
AirPlay supports many apps including YouTube, Netflix, and Photos. You can keep using your phone for other tasks while streaming continues on the TV.
For meetings or presentations, screen mirroring shows exactly what’s on your iPhone. This makes sharing websites, documents or family photos with everyone in the room simple and wireless.
Troubleshooting
Even with a perfect setup, you may encounter problems when using your iPhone as an Apple TV remote. Most issues have simple fixes that get you back to controlling your TV in minutes.
Resolving Connectivity Issues
If your iPhone won’t connect to your Apple TV, check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. This is the most common problem and easy to fix. Go to Settings on both devices to verify the network name.
Make sure Bluetooth is turned on for both devices. Your iPhone uses either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to communicate with Apple TV.
Try restarting both devices. A quick power cycle often fixes connection issues. For Apple TV, unplug it from power for about 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
If problems persist, try removing your phone from the Apple TV’s devices list. Go to the Apple TV settings, select “Remotes/Devices,” and remove your iPhone. Then set up the connection again.
Apple TV Remote App Concerns
The built-in Remote feature on iPhone sometimes stops working after iOS updates. If this happens, check that you’re using Control Center to access the remote. Swipe down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom on older iPhones) and tap the Remote icon.
If the Remote icon is missing from Control Center, add it back:
- Open Settings
- Tap Control Center
- Find “Apple TV Remote” in the list
- Tap the plus sign to add it
For users on iOS 18, some connection issues have been reported. Wait for Apple to release a fix or temporarily downgrade if possible.
Alternatives to the Apple TV Remote App
If you can’t get the official Apple TV remote feature working, several third-party apps offer similar functionality. Apps like CiderTV and Rowmote work well as replacements.
For Android users wanting to control Apple TV, try the BoostvisionRemote app. It provides basic navigation and control functions.
Universal remote apps like Harmony can control multiple devices including Apple TV. These work through infrared or Wi-Fi connections depending on your setup.
Don’t forget your iPhone’s AirPlay feature still works even when the remote doesn’t. Cast content directly from your phone to Apple TV by tapping the AirPlay icon in video and music apps.
If all else fails, check if your TV supports HDMI-CEC. This lets you control Apple TV with your regular TV remote for basic functions.
Exploring Third-Party Remote Apps
While Apple offers built-in remote functionality for Apple TV through Control Center, third-party apps can provide enhanced features and compatibility with various devices.
Choosing a Universal Remote App
Several universal remote apps offer more features than Apple’s basic remote option. Apps like Boostvision provide customizable button layouts and gesture controls for a better user experience. These apps often support multiple Apple TVs in different rooms, making home entertainment management easier.
To find a good third-party remote app:
- Check ratings and reviews in the App Store
- Look for apps that receive regular updates
- Consider paid options for ad-free experiences
Some apps like Universal Apple TV Remote offer quick access without going through Control Center. This saves time when you frequently use your iPhone as a remote.
Many third-party options also include keyboard functionality, making text entry for searches much faster than using the on-screen keyboard.
Integrating with Non-iOS Devices
Third-party remote apps bridge the gap between Apple TV and non-Apple devices. Android users can download universal TV remote apps that connect to Apple TV through the home network.
The setup typically requires:
- Both devices on the same Wi-Fi network
- Apple TV discovery enabled
- Initial pairing code entry
Xfinity TV Remote and similar cable provider apps now often include Apple TV control functionality. This integration lets users control their entire entertainment system from one app.
Smart home enthusiasts appreciate apps that connect Apple TV with other smart home devices. These allow for creating automation routines like dimming lights when starting a movie or pausing content when a doorbell rings.
Users with mixed-device households find these apps especially valuable for maintaining a consistent control experience across different platforms.
Entertainment and Streaming
Your iPhone can transform your Apple TV experience by giving you easy access to your favorite content. The remote feature works seamlessly with popular streaming platforms and offers special controls to make viewing more enjoyable.
Accessing Streaming Services
The iPhone remote app makes navigating streaming services on Apple TV simple. When you open the Apple TV Remote in Control Center, you can browse Netflix, Disney+, and other platforms with quick swipes.
Moving around the interface is intuitive. Simply swipe in the gray navigation square on your iPhone to move up, down, left, or right on your Apple TV screen. To select something, just tap in the middle of this box.
Typing usernames and passwords becomes easier too. When a text field appears on Apple TV, your iPhone keyboard pops up automatically. This saves time compared to the tedious process of selecting letters one by one with a physical remote.
Enhancing Your Viewing Experience
The iPhone remote offers special features for a better viewing experience. Users can access playback controls like pause, rewind, and fast-forward with simple taps.
For Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD, the iPhone remote includes Siri functionality. Viewers can say “Skip ahead 10 minutes” or “Find action movies” instead of manually searching. This voice control makes finding content much faster.
Volume adjustment is also possible right from the iPhone. No need to juggle multiple remotes when watching movies or shows. The app’s interface places these controls within easy reach.
Some apps even offer enhanced viewing features when using AirPlay alongside the remote app. Users can stream personal photos or videos from their iPhone while controlling playback with the same device.
Frequently Asked Questions
iPhone users have many options to control their Apple TV without the physical remote. Here are answers to common questions about using your iPhone as an Apple TV remote.
How do I set up my iPhone to control my Apple TV?
Setting up your iPhone as an Apple TV remote is simple. First, add the Apple TV Remote to your Control Center by going to Settings > Control Center and tapping the plus sign next to Apple TV Remote.
Make sure your iPhone and Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom on older iPhones).
Tap the Apple TV Remote icon and select your Apple TV from the list. Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.
What should I do if my iPhone cannot connect to my Apple TV using the Remote app?
If your iPhone won’t connect to your Apple TV, check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. This is the most common issue.
Restart both your iPhone and Apple TV. Sometimes a simple reboot fixes connection problems.
Make sure your iOS and tvOS are updated to the latest versions. Outdated software can cause compatibility issues.
If problems persist, try forgetting your Apple TV in the Remote app and set it up again from scratch.
How can I use my iPhone as a remote when my Apple TV Remote app is stuck on searching?
When the Remote app gets stuck searching, close the app completely. On newer iPhones, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold, then swipe the app away.
Check that your Apple TV is turned on and not in sleep mode. The app can’t find devices that are powered off.
Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone, as some remote functions use Bluetooth to connect. Toggling Bluetooth off and on might help.
Which app should I download to control Apple TV with my iPhone?
You don’t need to download a separate app for newer iPhones. The Apple TV Remote functionality is built into iOS through Control Center.
For older iOS versions, the Apple TV Remote app was available in the App Store. However, Apple has phased this out in favor of the integrated Control Center remote.
Third-party remote apps are available in the App Store, but the built-in option works best with Apple TV.
Is there a free app available for using my iPhone as an Apple TV remote?
Yes, the built-in Apple TV Remote in Control Center is completely free. It comes pre-installed with iOS and doesn’t require any purchase.
Some third-party remote apps might charge fees or have in-app purchases. Stick with Apple’s solution for the most reliable and cost-free experience.
The native remote feature supports all Apple TV models, including Apple TV 4K and older versions.
Can you explain the functions of the buttons on the Apple TV Remote app for iPhone?
The iPhone remote has a large gray touchpad area for navigation. Swipe up, down, left, or right to move through menus, and tap to select items.
The Menu button works like a back button, returning you to previous screens. The TV button takes you to the Apple TV home screen when pressed.
Play/Pause controls video playback. The Siri button (microphone icon) lets you use voice commands to search for content or control your Apple TV.
Volume buttons appear when playing content and control your TV’s volume if your setup supports HDMI-CEC.
