How to control your TV with your smartphone

Smartphones are incredibly versatile, capable of booking flights, streaming entire TV series, and taking high-resolution photos. Many also offer seamless streaming of music, movies, and photos to your television. This functionality is largely built into Android and iOS, and we'll explore the various methods here.

Google Chromecast

Google Chromecast dongles connect to your TV's HDMI port, allowing smartphone control. Choose from the standard Chromecast (around $35) or the Chromecast Ultra (around $69) for 4K resolution.

Many modern televisions integrate Chromecast functionality, eliminating the need for a separate dongle. Android TV sets (common in Sony models, for example) often have this built-in. Check your TV's specifications – Google provides a comprehensive list of compatible models.

For both standalone dongles and built-in Chromecast, internet connectivity is essential. On Android TV, navigate to Home > Settings > Network > Network setup and follow the on-screen instructions. For a Chromecast dongle, plug it in and use the Google Home app (Android or iOS). On the home screen, select Add > Set up device > Set up new devices, then follow the prompts.

Once set up, you can begin streaming content. Most audio and video apps on Android and iOS support Chromecast, indicated by a small logo (typically a rectangle with Wi-Fi waves).

In the Android YouTube app, the logo is in the top toolbar; in the iOS Netflix app, it's in the bottom-left corner. Note that Apple Music and Apple TV apps are exceptions.

Ensure your phone and Chromecast are on the same Wi-Fi network. Tap the Chromecast button, select your device, and enjoy! Control playback and select new content directly from your phone. Tap the Chromecast button again to disconnect.

Apple AirPlay

Apple AirPlay mirrors Chromecast's functionality, transmitting audio and video over Wi-Fi. AirPlay's compatibility is less widespread than Chromecast; it's not available on all Android apps, for instance.

To use AirPlay with an iPhone, you'll need a compatible receiver. An Apple TV is the most straightforward option, connecting directly to your TV's HDMI port. Increasingly, AirPlay is also built into TVs from manufacturers like Sony and Samsung.

AirPlay is usually enabled by default, but verification is recommended. On an Apple TV, go to Settings > AirPlay to ensure it's active and that Anyone on the Same Network is selected under Allow Access.

Open an AirPlay-compatible app on your iPhone (ensure you're on the same Wi-Fi network). Look for the AirPlay button (an upward-pointing arrow in a rectangle). Tap it, choose your receiver, and start streaming.

In the iOS Netflix app, the AirPlay button is in the top-left corner during playback; in Spotify, it's under the Devices Available button (you may need to tap More Devices). Maintain control over playback from your phone.

While this focuses on phones, iPads, Macs, and iTunes on Windows (audio only) also support AirPlay. It's a strong Chromecast alternative, particularly for users heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and owning an Apple TV.

Other Streaming Options

Regardless of your TV or streaming device, smartphone control is usually possible. For example, the Amazon Fire TV app (Android/iOS) connects to Fire TV devices on the same Wi-Fi network, allowing control of playback, menu navigation, and text input. This simplifies text entry compared to using the Fire TV remote.

Similarly, Roku devices have companion apps offering comprehensive control. These apps allow menu navigation, text input, content selection, channel switching, and even voice search. While Roku remotes are functional, the phone app provides enhanced control.

Most modern TVs have accompanying smartphone apps, providing features like content browsing and screen mirroring. If your TV lacks a dedicated app, Chromecast, Apple TV, Fire TV, or Roku devices offer affordable alternatives. A quick online search will reveal the available options. For instance, Samsung Smart View TVs use the Smart View app (Android/iOS) for content browsing and screen mirroring.

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