Are you tired of juggling multiple remotes or trying to find the perfect replacement for your lost TV remote? If you own an iPhone, you might be wondering if you can use it as a remote control for your non-smart TV. The answer is yes, but with some limitations and workarounds. In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities and guide you through the process of using your iPhone as a remote for your non-smart TV.
Understanding the Limitations
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand the limitations of using an iPhone as a remote for a non-smart TV. Since non-smart TVs do not have built-in internet connectivity or Wi-Fi capabilities, they cannot communicate directly with your iPhone. This means you won’t be able to control your TV using traditional remote control methods, such as IR (Infrared) signals or Bluetooth connectivity.
However, there are some workarounds that can help you use your iPhone as a remote control for your non-smart TV. These solutions typically involve additional devices or equipment that can bridge the gap between your iPhone and TV.
Method 1: Using a Streaming Device with a Remote App
One way to use your iPhone as a remote control for your non-smart TV is by using a streaming device with a remote app. This method requires a streaming device such as an Apple TV, Roku, or Google Chromecast, which can connect to your TV and stream content from the internet.
Here’s how it works:
- Connect your streaming device to your TV using an HDMI cable.
- Download and install the remote app for your streaming device on your iPhone.
- Launch the app and connect it to your streaming device using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- Use the app to control your streaming device, which in turn controls your TV.
For example, if you have an Apple TV, you can download the Apple TV Remote app on your iPhone. This app allows you to control your Apple TV, which is connected to your non-smart TV, using your iPhone. You can navigate menus, play content, and adjust settings using the app.
Method 2: Using a Universal Remote App with an IR Blaster
Another way to use your iPhone as a remote control for your non-smart TV is by using a universal remote app with an IR blaster. An IR blaster is a device that converts digital signals from your iPhone into infrared signals that can control your TV.
Here’s how it works:
- Purchase an IR blaster device, such as the Philips Pronto or the Logitech Harmony Hub.
- Download and install a universal remote app on your iPhone, such as the Philips Pronto app or the Logitech Harmony app.
- Connect the IR blaster to your iPhone using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- Launch the app and configure it to connect to the IR blaster.
- Use the app to control your TV by sending IR signals to the IR blaster, which in turn sends the signals to your TV.
Using a universal remote app with an IR blaster offers more flexibility than the first method, as it can control multiple devices, including your TV, DVD player, and audio equipment.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Remote App with an IR Transmitter
The third method involves using a third-party remote app with an IR transmitter. This method is similar to the second method, but it uses an IR transmitter instead of an IR blaster.
Here’s how it works:
- Purchase an IR transmitter device, such as the FLIR Systems IR Transmitter.
- Download and install a third-party remote app on your iPhone, such as the IR Remote app or the Remote Control for TV app.
- Connect the IR transmitter to your iPhone using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- Launch the app and configure it to connect to the IR transmitter.
- Use the app to control your TV by sending IR signals to the IR transmitter, which in turn sends the signals to your TV.
Using a third-party remote app with an IR transmitter offers more customization options than the first two methods, as you can create custom buttons and macros to control your TV and other devices.
Additional Considerations
When using your iPhone as a remote control for your non-smart TV, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind:
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Battery Life | Your iPhone’s battery life may drain faster when using it as a remote control, especially if you’re using a streaming device or IR transmitter. |
| Latency | There may be a delay between sending a command from your iPhone and seeing the result on your TV, especially if you’re using an IR transmitter or IR blaster. |
| Compatibility | Make sure the streaming device, IR blaster, or IR transmitter you choose is compatible with your TV and iPhone. |
| Cost | Some streaming devices, IR blasters, and IR transmitters may require a subscription or a one-time purchase, adding to the overall cost. |
Conclusion
Using your iPhone as a remote control for your non-smart TV is possible, but it requires some additional equipment and workarounds. By using a streaming device with a remote app, a universal remote app with an IR blaster, or a third-party remote app with an IR transmitter, you can take control of your TV and enjoy a more convenient viewing experience.
Remember to consider the limitations and additional considerations when choosing the best method for your needs. With the right equipment and app, you can turn your iPhone into a powerful remote control for your non-smart TV.
What do I need to use my iPhone as a remote for a non-smart TV?
To use your iPhone as a remote for a non-smart TV, you’ll need a few things. First, you’ll need an iPhone or iPad with iOS 12 or later. You’ll also need a streaming device like an Apple TV, Roku, or Google Chromecast connected to your TV. Finally, you’ll need to download and install the remote app for your streaming device on your iPhone.
Once you have all these things, you can use your iPhone as a remote for your non-smart TV. Make sure your iPhone and streaming device are connected to the same WiFi network, and then open the remote app on your iPhone. The app will prompt you to connect to your streaming device, and once you do, you’ll be able to use your iPhone as a remote to control your TV.
How do I connect my iPhone to my non-smart TV?
To connect your iPhone to your non-smart TV, you’ll need to use a streaming device like an Apple TV, Roku, or Google Chromecast. First, connect the streaming device to your TV using an HDMI cable. Then, turn on your TV and select the input that corresponds to the streaming device. Next, open the streaming device app on your iPhone and follow the prompts to connect to your streaming device.
Once you’re connected, you can use your iPhone as a remote to control your TV. You can use the app to navigate to different channels, adjust the volume, and even use features like playback controls and closed captions. Make sure your iPhone and streaming device are connected to the same WiFi network to ensure a smooth connection.
Can I use my iPhone as a remote for any non-smart TV?
Yes, you can use your iPhone as a remote for almost any non-smart TV as long as you have a streaming device like an Apple TV, Roku, or Google Chromecast connected to it. The streaming device acts as a bridge between your iPhone and your TV, allowing you to control your TV using your iPhone.
The only exception is if your TV doesn’t have an HDMI port, which is unlikely but possible. In that case, you won’t be able to connect a streaming device to your TV, which means you won’t be able to use your iPhone as a remote. But for most modern TVs, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Do I need a special app to use my iPhone as a remote?
Yes, you’ll need to download and install a special app on your iPhone to use it as a remote for your non-smart TV. The app you need will depend on the type of streaming device you’re using. For example, if you have an Apple TV, you’ll need to download the Apple TV Remote app. If you have a Roku, you’ll need to download the Roku app.
Once you’ve downloaded and installed the app, you can use it to connect to your streaming device and control your TV. The app will provide a virtual remote control that you can use to navigate to different channels, adjust the volume, and access other TV functions.
Can I use my iPhone as a remote for multiple TVs?
Yes, you can use your iPhone as a remote for multiple TVs as long as each TV has a streaming device connected to it. You’ll need to download and install the remote app for each streaming device, and then you can use your iPhone to control each TV separately.
Just make sure you’re connected to the correct WiFi network for each TV, and that you’ve selected the correct TV in the remote app. You can switch between TVs by opening the remote app and selecting the TV you want to control.
Will using my iPhone as a remote drain my battery?
Using your iPhone as a remote for your non-smart TV may drain your battery slightly, but it shouldn’t be a significant drain. The remote app on your iPhone uses WiFi to connect to your streaming device, which uses relatively little power.
However, if you’re using your iPhone as a remote for an extended period, you may want to keep an eye on your battery level. You can always plug your iPhone into a charger or power bank if you need to use it as a remote for a long time.
Can I use my Android phone as a remote for a non-smart TV?
Yes, you can use your Android phone as a remote for a non-smart TV, but you’ll need to use a different app and streaming device than you would with an iPhone. For example, if you have a Google Chromecast, you can download the Google Home app on your Android phone and use it as a remote.
The process is similar to using an iPhone as a remote, but you’ll need to use the app and streaming device that are compatible with your Android phone. Just make sure your Android phone and streaming device are connected to the same WiFi network, and you’re good to go!