This article will weigh the pros and cons of the best universal remote control applications for iOS and Android devices. I will present a mix of free and paid applications and give you my favorites for major TV brands and streaming players.
Universal Remote Applications
Looking for an alternative to all those physical consoles that cloud your coffee table? Do you think it’s a good idea to be able to control your home entertainment and streaming devices from your smartphone or your iOS or Android tablet?
While the best remote control apps for iOS and Android are far from perfect, a few notable apps can make you give up those tricky remotes for good.
1. Logitech Harmony Hub
The Harmony Hub and its companion Harmony Remote App are simply unbeatable if you’re looking for one of the best all-in-one remote apps for your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. Based on years of development experience and Logitech’s continuous improvements, the Harmony app raises the bar for your smartphone remote’s functionality and ease of use.
You can use the application for yourself and other household members free of charge when you purchase a Harmony Hub-based remote control. However, Logitech also sells the hub separately at a very discounted price for those who simply want to operate their devices without a physical remote control.
It also works with almost every brand of Smart TV you own, and you can also use it to control Apple TV, Fire TV, Roku, and most other streaming set-top boxes [STBs].
This is my favorite of the best remote control applications for iOS and Android devices without exception.
Pros
- Drag and drop to operate more than 270,000 devices from more than 5,000 brands
- Events such as a movie night or a date night automate many devices.
- Play up to 50 of your favorite stations with colorful on-screen icons.
- Controlling lights and other intelligent devices
- Create a transversal experience called an activity
- Voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
- Control of devices behind the cabinets [IR, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth].
Cons
- Harmony Hub or one of the following Hub repairs are required: Harmony Pro, Harmony Elite, Harmony Companion, Harmony Home Control, Harmony Hub, Harmony Ultimate Home, Harmony Home Control, Harmony Ultimate, Harmony Smart Control, Harmony Smart Keyboard, or Harmony Ultimate Hub (sold separately).
Compatibility
iOS and Android
Download application
Download from: Google Play [Android] | Apple App Store [iOS].
2. Apple TV remote control
The program Apple TV Remote is a good companion for the Apple TV. It offers the same functionality as the Siri remote control, so you know what you get when you know it. But, of course, it also works with your iPhone or iPad, and you can control your Apple TV by simply dragging and dropping it. Keyboard also allows you to enter text when searching for content quickly.
It’s working:
- Apple TV (4th generation), with TVOS 9.2.1 or higher.
- Apple TV (3rd generation), with Apple TV 7.2.1 software.
- Apple TV (2nd generation), with Apple TV 6.2.1 software.
Siri requires an Apple TV (4th generation). Availability varies by country and language.
Pros
- Apple TV navigation with touch and ribbon gestures
- Quick entry of text, email addresses, and passwords using the keyboard
- You can ask Siri to find something big to watch, listen to or play.
- Control the movie, TV show, or song being played
- Viewing lyrics, changing music titles, and selecting movie chapters
- Game mode for simplified game management
- Use the volume buttons on the iOS device to adjust the volume.
Cons
- It does not work on Android or iOS devices running iOS 9.3.2 or later.
- It only works with Apple TV.
- The volume control requires an AV receiver with a CEC bracket.
Price
Free
Compatibility
Requires Apple TV
EOS 9.3.2 or higher
Download application
Download from: Apple App Store
3. oByte
Handmade by two brothers in San Francisco and Illinois, RoByte by TinyByte Apps is a colorful and well-designed application. It’s actually my first choice of the best all-in-one remote control applications for Roku. t works on both Android and iOS, and you can use it to browse Roku, change channels, choose from your favorites like Netflix and Disney+, and more. oByte is a simple and convenient Roku remote control that works with your Roku player or Roku TV.
Note that RoByte can only connect if you are on the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device and that the Wi-Fi on your iPhone or iPad must be turned on and connected to the same network as the Roku.
Pros
- No adjustment is required: RoByte automatically scans your network to find your Roku.
- Remote navigation and channel change at the touch of a button.
- Adjust the volume using the hardware buttons if Roku supports the volume.
- Includes a keyboard for quick text input for Netflix and Hulu searches
- RoByte is designed for both iPhone and iPad.
- Thanks to the touch screen tablet, you can easily navigate without looking at your phone.
- More than one Roku in the house? oByte can be linked to different Roku players.
- Excellent email support
Cons
- You may need to enter the Roku IP address for more complex settings to connect manually.
Price
Free
Compatibility
iOS [iPhone and iPad] and Android devices.
Download
Download TinyByte Apps [click for App Store or Google Play].
4. ire TV Remote Control App [Amazon Official]
This is an excellent application, in theory. It has a nice interface that shows clips and fragments of your favorite shows; it just looks cool. I like the look of this interface. However, recent updates have left much to be desired regarding compatibility, connectivity, and overall consistency.
Some users complain about problems connecting to the Firestick; others complain that it accidentally loses connection and is simply too buggy to use. A ser even goes so far as to say Use it only when you’re desperate! LO. If you desperately need an alternative Fire TV remote control, you should use one of the other universal remote controls mentioned here instead. Interestingly, problems persist for iOS and Android users.
Pros
- Professional and advanced interface
Cons
- Occasional stability problems
- Occasional communication problems
- Occasional consistency problems
Price
Free
Compatibility
iOS and Android:
- Requires Android 4.4 or higher
- Requires iOS 10.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
5. An roid TV remote control
Use your Android phone or tablet as a remote control for your Android TV. Effortlessly switch from D-Pad mode to Touchpad mode to browse your Android TV device content and games. To ch the microphone to start the voice search or use the keyboard to enter text on the Android TV.
First, connect your Android phone or tablet to the same network as your Android TV device, or find an Android TV device via Bluetooth.
Pros
- Works with all Android TV sets with Android 4.0 and higher.
- It also works under iOS
Cons
- In general, users report mixed results related to remote use.
- iOS users continue to report voice search issues
Price
Free
Compatibility
Android OS 4.0 and higher
iOS 9.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Google Play [Android] | Apple App Store [iOS].
6. Ya se
The next on my list of best all-in-one emotive apps for iOS and Android devices is Yatse. Yatse is the most popular and best-rated universal remote control for Cody Bar lovers no. It is very well reviewed and integrates with Kodi, Plex, Emby, Jellyfin, and with your local camera. You can use it to stream to UPnP, AirPlay, Chromecast, FireTV, Roku, and Smart TV devices. The only negative point of this application is that there is no iOS version.
Pros
- One of the most stable and best developed remote applications I have ever tested.
- Responsive customer support for the developer
- Support for voice control in seven languages
- Sync your media library with multiple devices.
- You can access your library offline.
- You can choose from different colors to change the appearance of the application
- Provides extensive documentation, FAQs, and active forums.
Cons
- Requires a paid version to remove ads
Price
Free of charge [with optional extra charge]
Compatibility
Android 4.03 and up
Download application
Download from: Google Play [Android]
7. Unified remote control
Unified Remote’s slogan – Be lazy, you deserve it. Ha! I think it’s great. The company claims that it is the only real remote IT management application. Although this statement is probably exaggerated [as can be seen in this article], it really is an excellent remote computer if you want to use it for your computer. There are also versions of applications that run on your Android, iPhone, iPad, or Windows Phone.
Cons
- Available for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and other operating systems.
- Support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices
- Installs a free remote management server on your PC
Cons
- Voice commands are not supported in the free version.
- Intermittent delay when the apple is not used for a certain period.
Price
Free
Compatibility
The server is operational: Windows XP or later, Mac OS 10.6 or later, and 32- and 64-bit Linux desktop systems.
The application works: Android 1.5 or higher, iOS 7 or higher, and Windows Phone 7.5 and 8 or higher.
Download
Download from: UnifiedRemote.com.
You have access to download links for the unified remote server and applications.
8. Reliable universal remote control
It is one of the best all-in-one remote control applications that combine both the IR capabilities of older devices and the Wi-Fi capabilities of smart devices. In addition, it comes with built-in Amazon Alexa; you can customize your smart home, Chromecast, Kodi, Roku, and SmartTV with voice control.
Pros
- Allows you to rearrange the keys
- Possibility to change colors and symbols
- Possibility to float the remote control when using other applications.
- Amazone-Alexa voice integration
- File transfer over a shared network
- Stream media directly to your Smart TV
Cons
- Android devices with IR blaster for all functions
- Limited possibilities with regular Android devices
Price
Free with advertisements
Compatibility
Android 5.0 and up
iOS 10.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
9. TVmote
TVmote is an advanced remote control for a multimedia center created by iOS application developer Jorge Miguel. Although not compatible with all TV and device manufacturers, many of those who use this remote control confirm that it is a reliable remote control application, at least for iOS. Several Android users have complained about stability issues.
It’s more technologically advanced than many of the other remotes on my list. It supports Kodi and Plex, as well as Google Chromecast, Roku devices, and the following smart brands:
- LG Smart TV (models 2013/2014)
- LG WebOS TV models
- Panasonic Viera Smart TV
- Philips SPACE Smart TV (models 2009/2011) (beta)
- Samsung Smart TVs (2012/2015 models) (beta)
- CST Mediaroom (for VodafonePT, MEO, and other suppliers)
Pros
- Ability to set favorites and change the current channel
- Multiple layouts improve interaction for different scenarios
- Automatic detection (via LAN) and manual device configuration
- Keyboard support for Kodi and LG Smart TVs
- Siri Shortcuts for remote actions
- Device Manager on AppleWatch
- Remote control iOS widget
- TrackPad (iOS)
Cons
- Only the Pro version has no advertising, which can be annoying.
- The Pro version is limited to one device.
- The professional version is limited to one Siri shortcut.
Price
Free of charge [with optional extra charge]
Compatibility
Android 4.03 and up
iOS: iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad.
Download application
Download from: Google Play [Android] | Apple App Store [iOS].
10. Official remote control for Roku TV App
Turn your mobile device into the best streaming companion with the free Roku Mobile app.
You can stream your favorite movies from Roku, Netflix, Hulu, etc. In addition, with ABC, CBS, HBO, Showtime, and many others, you can watch your favorite shows on the go. The remote control is designed to be used as a second Roku remote control.
Pros
- Operate your Roku device like any other remote control.
- The Roku channel lets you stream movies, TV shows, and more.
- The personal listening pleasure with headphones.
- Use your voice or keyboard to search for movies, TV shows, actors, and directors.
- Download videos, photos, and music to your TV.
- Add and launch channels on your Roku device.
- Entering text on the Roku device is easier with the keyboard.
Cons
- Your Roku device must be connected to the same wireless network as your Roku device for full functionality.
- Some features require you to log in to your Roku account.
- Voice Search is only available in English in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
- The Roku application is only available in English in Mexico.
Price
The application is free but requires a Roku* player.
A subscription or other payment may be required to access certain content on the channel. In addition, the availability of the channel may vary and varies from country to country.
Compatibility
Available for iOS and Android
iOS requires iOS 9.0 or watchOS 4.0 or later. Wor s with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download application
Download from: Roku.com.
11. Rokie
Rokie is another free and reliable remote control for the iPhone/iPod that lets you stream Roku streams and watch Roku TV. Gre t design, intuitive interface, no tons of buttons or complicated settings. With this iOS application, access to movies, music, and games has become easier, and you’ll love your Roku even more. Just connect your iOS device and your Roku to the same Wi-Fi network. Rok e is compatible with all Roku models, including Roku 1, Roku 2, Roku 3, Streaming Stick, Express, Express+, Premiere, Premiere+, Ultra, and Roku TV.
Pros
- Automatically detects Roku on a Wi-Fi network.
- Large touchpad for easy navigation through menus and content
- Start the channels directly from the application
- Browse YouTube videos and stream them to Roku from your iPhone/iPod
Cons
- Very similar to the commercially-free Roku remote control
- Customers complain that the frequency of unpaid advertising in this version is too high.
- It does not work with older versions of iOS
Price
Free with a paid option
Compatibility
For iOS: Requires iOS 11.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
For Android: Requires Android 4.2 or higher
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
12. iRemote for Roku
iRemote for Roku TV by iStreamer Apps is one of the best universal remote control applications for Roku TV, Roku 1, Roku 2, Roku 3, and Roku Streaming Stick. You can also use it to control TCL, Insignia TV, Sharp TV, HiSense, and other TVs with built-in Roku. The remote control interface is almost identical to that of the Roku remote included with your player. Users who download this remote control say it’s better than many other remote control applications they’ve tried.
Pros
- The interface mimics the Roku remote control.
- Automatically detects Roku when starting the application
- Simple navigation that makes it super easy to use
- Free download, no registration required
Cons
- Currently, landscape mode is not supported
- It does not work if you are connected via a VPN
- Requires iOS 10.0 or later
Price
Free
Compatibility
Requires iOS 10.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [for iOS]
13. The Peel Smart Remote
The Peel Smart Remote was originally launched in 2009 and has since become one of the most popular universal remotes. The company has a user base of 25 million downloads. Pee can handle many popular TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Panasonic, Toshiba, Sharp, Philips, Sanyo, Emerson, etc. It is also compatible with most cable and satellite TV services and streaming media players.
One of the features of this application is the ability to display it on the locked screen of your phone, so you don’t need to have access if your phone is locked. The interface is easy to use, and you can even receive notifications about popular sports games, movies, and series premieres.
Pros
- Control both TVs and set-top boxes such as Roku, Apple TV, and Sonos.
- Automatically set up infrared controllable devices in your Wi-Fi network
- Watch the trailers of your favorite shows in the video section.
- TV Guide combines content from different networks such as Netflix, HBO, Showtime, FOX, etc.
Cons
- Some users complain that new updates are a bug.
- Some TV models are not supported
- No voice control support with Alexa and Google
Price
Free
Compatibility
Android 4.1.1 or later
Download
Download from: Sotonic [Android].
14. SamR mote
Okay, let’s see if you can guess which smart TV brand this remote control application is made for. You guessed it! Sams ng. I ha e a Samsung Smart TV, and while I hate to admit it, this manufacturer-designed remote is not too shabby! The interface itself is a bit jammed and might need some work, but functionally it does fine to control my Samsung Smart TV. SamRemote works with the following TV models:
- Series C (2010) with internet
- Series D (2011) with all shares
- E Series (2012) to share with everyone
- Series F (2013) to share with everyone
- Series K (2016 and 2017)
It probably works with other models, but I haven’t been able to control it.
Pros
- It’s free.
- Solid response time for switching the TV on and off
Cons
- The interface is a bit awkward
- Announcements are distracting and boring.
- Requires a laptop or tablet on the same Wi-Fi network as the TV.
- There are some bugs in the latest version.
Price
Free – through advertising and purchases in the application
Compatibility
iOS and Android:
- iOS 11.0 or later on iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
- Android 4.1 and higher
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
15. TClee – TCL Roku TVs
Another cleverly named application for the remote control is TClee, designed for Roku TCL TVs. The application mimics a Roku remote control and is very easy to install and use. After connecting your iPhone or iPad to the same Wi-Fi network, the application will automatically detect TCL Roku TV.
Pros
- Mimics the existing TCL Roku TV remote control.
- The payment version for 2-3 dollars is commercially free.
- The latest version contains haptic feedback to look like a real remote control.
Cons
- Users complain that free version ads are distracting
- Users complain about excessive advertising
Price
Free
Compatibility
Requires iOS 11.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS]
16. LG Re ote – LG Smart TVs
I like what they’ve done with the name of this remote app. For s e reason, it reminds me of the Bee Gees. LOL.
I m sure you don’t have to guess what it’s for. Yes, it is a great remote to store or replace to control your LG TV. The remote works on all LG Smart TVs and those with LG’s Web OS technology. The on y requirement is that the TV is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
LG TV owners say it’s a great replacement remote control.
Pros
- Reliable emergency remote control for LG Smart TVs
- It contains a numeric keypad, unlike the original remote control
Cons
- The free version shows ads that disturb some users.
- The buttons could have been placed in a more user-friendly form.
Price
Free with advertising and purchases in the application
6.99 to remove advertising
Compatibility
Requires iOS 11.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS]
17. Univer al Smart Tv remote control
The universal Smart TV remote control, made by Johan Teixeira, is an interesting application to control Smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, and Philips. Of all the remote control applications I tested, I liked and appreciated the sleek interface design of this application. It pro des all the basics of television control. You can
- Changing the volume
- Changing the channel number
- Use the navigation bar
- Video control (Play/Pause/Stop)
- Menu, Settings, Info, Tools
- Switch on/off
Pros
- The elegant and sleek design of the white surface
Cons
- Users complain that there are too many advertisements.
- You can’t control anything but your television.
- No integration with Alexa or Google Assistant [no voice control].
- Cannot add or configure the remote control
Price
Free with advertising and program purchase
5.99 to remove advertising
Compatibility
Requires iOS 10.3 or later. Compati le with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [Ios]
18. Logitec Harmony
While it doesn’t have the sparkle of Logitech Harmony, I really like the idea of this remote. It offers most of the same Harmony features and integrates with Alexa for intelligent home control. The integration with Google is limited to voice commands via Google Now. You can also use it to control your music through Sonos and others.
The remote is also fully customizable, so you can organize buttons, change colors, add text, etc.
Pros
- Highly adaptable
- Automated task support for integration in smart homes
- Supports geolocation
- Good interface
- The application is available on the home screen.
- Works with Apple Watch
Cons
- The free version is limited to one remote control
- The backup/restore function does not work
- Does not work with newer Samsung TV models.
Price
Free with advertising and program purchase
Compatibility
iOS and Android:
iOS 9.3 and WatchOS 2.2 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Download
Download of : Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
19. MAG rem te control
Here is another remote control application with a killer interface. I like the monochrome blue look. You can use this remote control to operate the MAG decoder. If you don’t know what it is or don’t have one, this remote isn’t for you. Supported MAG adjustment blocks include :
- MAG245
- MAG245D
- MAG250
- MAG254
- MAG255
- MAG260
- MAG270
- MAG275
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Solves the problem of MAG decoders that make the TV volume too low.
Cons
- Checks only a limited number of MAG decoders.
- Checks only the decoders
- No numeric keypad
- It may take several scans before your box is detected.
- Stability issues for Android users
Price
Free
Compatibility
Android and iOS :
- Requires iOS 7.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
- Android 4 or higher, but some users report problems with Android 5.
Download
Download from: Google Play [Android] | Apple App Store [iOS].
20. Harmony application for Samsung TV
Of all the best remote universal applications listed here, except for the Harmony application, the design of this application is my favorite. Why is t at? Fix it, just nail it from the design. Although I have a Samsung TV, I would like them to extend it to other brands. The store-lined interface, large buttons, beautiful keyboard, and optimized controls make this application unbeatable for your Samsung Smart TV. But here s the problem. If you don’t want to pay $4, you can forget it. Advertising is too common to be useful.
Pros
- Navigation with a large touchpad
- Control TV, home theater, and Blueray devices.
- Includes a nice QUERTY keyboard like the one you use to send text messages
- Automatic recovery of the interface after a phone call
Cons
- Some users complain that the ads are too frequent.
- Announcements and purchases in the application for the free version
- You have to pay to use the touchpad and keyboard.
Price
Free
Compatibility
iOS and Android
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
21. YouTube V
This shows you a real-time overview of what’s in your feed directly in the application. So it’s cool, right? It’s definitely part of the general YouTube television service, and it’s probably one of the most sophisticated and elegant applications I’ve ever used. TechCrunch and other blogs talk about the application. If you want to know more about physical remote controls for YouTube TV, take a look at this message I wrote.
Oh, and if you’re new to YouTube TV and you want to cut the cord, it offers over 50 cable channels on the Wi-Fi network for $50 [now].
Pros
- Displays a live video stream of your favorite shows directly in the application
- An easy navigation interface to your favorite programs, services, and channels
- The application mimics the YouTube TV interface.
- You can use an application on your smartphone, tablet, or computer to control the TV by entering the code [more details here].
- Large buttons with links to all your favorite shows
Cons
- No integration in smart homes
- There is no voice control with a ready-made remote control [but you can configure it differently].
- Not integrated with YouTube
Price
The application is free; TV on YouTube costs $50/month.
Compatibility
Android and iOS
YouTube TV requires Smart TV with the application or Google Chromecast, Roku Player & TV, or Apple TV.
Download
Download from: Apple App Store [iOS] | Google Play [Android].
Conclusion
Full disclosure: After testing almost all of the best remote universal applications listed here and a few others, I don’t think any is a better replacement for a good physical universal remote than Logitech Harmony.
You can read one of my reviews on Harmony remotes here. All remotes in this evaluation include the Harmony application, which offers the benefits mentioned above.
However, if you really want to be able to control your home theater and smartphones from your smartphone or tablet, the Harmony Hub is a good choice.
Related Tags:
tv remote app without Wi-Fi, best Samsung tv remote app for iPhone, Philips tv remote replacement, Philips tv remote not working, Philips tv remote app, Hisense tv remote not working, Sony DVD player remote app, how to use LG DVD player without remote, polaroid tv remote Asda, anymote home, Westinghouse tv remote app, polaroid tv remote not working, myuremote support, ario tv remote, satellite receiver remote control app, myuremote setup, myuremote sign-up, myuremote universal remote control app apk, iPad infrared adapter, lightning ir blaster, iPhone IR blaster app, iPhone ir camera, IR blaster for Android, iPhone XR, tv remote app for iPhone without Wi-Fi, universal remote app for iPhone no hardware needed, free universal remote app for iPhone, insignia tv remote app for iPhone, non-smart tv remote app for iPhone, best universal remote app for Vizio tv, universal remote control app, best android tv remote
