How to use your iPhone as a TV remote (step by step)

Your iPhone can replace the remote for nearly any modern TV — no extra hardware, no infrared, just your home Wi-Fi. Here's exactly how to set it up, and what it does that a plastic remote never could.

Does it work with your TV?

It works with network-connected TVs across 12 platforms: Samsung, LG, Roku, Sony, Apple TV, Fire TV, Google TV, Hisense, Panasonic, Philips, VIZIO and Chromecast. Because it uses the network rather than infrared, your iPhone doesn't need an IR blaster (it doesn't have one).

Step 1 — Same Wi-Fi

Put your iPhone and your TV on the same Wi-Fi network. This is the single most important step — if they're on different networks (or a “guest” network), the app won't see the TV.

Step 2 — Open the app and pair

Open LazyBinger; your TV appears automatically — no IP address to type. Tap to connect. A few brands (like Apple TV or some Hisense models) show a one-time code on screen; enter it once and you're paired for good.

Step 3 — Use your remote

You get the full D-pad, volume, play/pause, a keyboard for typing into search, and one-tap launches for Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube and more.

Beyond a normal remote

• <a href="/en/blog/skip-intros-automatically/">Auto-skip intros and recaps</a> with the camera auto-pilot.
• <a href="/en/blog/control-tv-with-voice-iphone/">Voice “magic words”</a> that work with the screen locked.
• A <a href="/en/blog/tv-sleep-timer/">sleep timer</a> for any TV.
• <a href="/en/blog/turn-on-tv-from-phone/">Wake-on-LAN</a> to power the TV back on.
• 100% local — no account, no ads, no tracking.

If your TV doesn't show up

Almost always a Wi-Fi issue — different network, split 2.4/5 GHz bands, or AP isolation. Our guide to “No devices found” walks through every fix.

Frequently asked

Can any iPhone be a TV remote? Yes — any iPhone can control a smart TV over Wi-Fi. There's no infrared involved, so the model doesn't matter.

Is it free? The core remote is free. A Premium upgrade unlocks the voice magic words and the camera auto-skip.