In this article, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the top universal remote applications for iOS and Android devices. I will include both free and paid applications, as well as my top recommendations for major TV brands and streaming media devices.
In addition to providing mini-reviews of the ten best remote apps, I will also provide a link to my full review of what I consider to be the best universal remote app for iOS and Android devices.
Universal remote control apps for your smartphone
Searching for an alternative to the tangible remote controls that have cluttered your coffee table? Do you like the notion of using your iOS or Android-powered smartphone or tablet to control your home entertainment equipment and streaming devices? How is your connected home equipment?
Therefore, you have arrived at the correct location.
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Despite the fact that the finest remote apps for iOS and Android are far from ideal, there are a few standout apps that may convince you to abandon those cumbersome remotes forever.
Here is a video on my YouTube channel that summarizes my top seven recommendations. After viewing my comprehensive evaluations of the 21 best universal remote apps, continue reading.
Top 7 best universal remote control apps
Universal Remote TV Control
A TV remote that is constantly lost? Or you simply cannot bear the site of this obsolete device any longer? Then you’ve come to the correct place; using a remote control app on your mobile device will alleviate all of these problems.
Universal Remote TV Control raises the bar for television viewing!
It is a simple application that allows you to control a web-connected television from your iPhone.
The application duplicates the functionality of the handheld remote and enables you to control everything: channels list, volume, menu, information, tools, and other controls (Play/Pause/Stop, etc.).
It is compatible with the most prominent manufacturers (Samsung, LG, Sony, Philips, Panasonic, etc.) and supports TV models with varying production years and screen sizes.
Connecting your iPhone and TV device to the same Wifi network is all that is required for your touchscreen to become a navigation panel with all the capabilities of a conventional remote.
Universal Remote TV Control is a fully-featured mobile variation of a traditional TV remote that simplifies your life.
No need to leave the settee to retrieve the remote or to purchase a replacement if you lose it.
Sync the application with your mobile device to browse your preferred television shows, films, and programs with ease.
Benefit as much as possible from modern conveniences.
Logitech Harmony Hub
Harmony Hub and its companion Harmony remote app are the finest universal remote applications for iOS and Android mobile devices.
Logitech’s Harmony app raises the bar in terms of both features and usability for a smartphone remote, thanks to years of development and ongoing enhancements.
When you purchase a Harmony Hub-based remote, you and your family members gain access to the app for free.
Those who wish to control their devices without a tangible remote can purchase the Hub separately from Logitech at a substantial discount.
You can also use it to control Apple TV, Fire TV, Roku, and the majority of other streaming set-top boxes (STBs). It is compatible with virtually every Smart TV brand.
This is, without a doubt, my favorite of the finest remote applications for iOS and Android devices.
Tech With Brett reviews the Harmony Hub and Logitech’s Smart Remote product competently. The Hub can be utilized with a smartphone without the remote.
Apple TV Remote
Apple TV pairs well with the Apple TV Remote app. If you are familiar with the Siri Remote, you already know what to expect from this product. Naturally, it works with your iPhone or iPad and enables you to control Apple TV with swipes and taps.
Additionally, there is a keyboard for entering text rapidly when browsing for content.
It operates with:
- Apple TV (4th generation), using tvOS 9.2.1 or later
- Apple TV (3rd generation), using Apple TV Software 7.2.1
- Apple TV (2nd generation), using Apple TV Software 6.2.1
RoByte
TinyByte Apps’ RoByte is an app that is colorful and well-designed.
In fact, I consider it to be the finest ubiquitous remote app for Roku. It is compatible with both Android and iOS and can be used to navigate your Roku, change channels, and select favorites such as Netflix and Disney+, among others.
RoByte is an easy-to-use Roku remote control that is compatible with your Roku Device or Roku TV.
Note that RoByte can only connect if you are on the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device, and the Wi-Fi on your iPhone or iPad must be set on and connected to the same network as the Roku.
Fire TV Remote
In theory, this app is fantastic. With a slick interface that features excerpts and highlights from your beloved shows, it’s a cool-looking app.
I truly adore this interface’s aesthetic. However, it falls lacking in terms of compatibility, connectivity, and overall consistency after recent updates.
Some users have connection issues with Firestick, while others complain that it sporadically loses connection and is simply too unstable for them to use. One user goes so far as to state, “Use only if you’re desperate!” LOL.
If you’re desperate for an alternative Fire TV remote, I would recommend using one of the other universal remotes listed here.
Interestingly, the issues appear to persist for iOS and Android users.
Android TV Remote
Utilize your Android smartphone or tablet as a remote control for your Android TV. To navigate content and play games on your Android TV device, you can easily toggle between d-pad and touchpad modes.
Tap the microphone to initiate a voice search on Android TV, or use the keyboard to input text.
Connect your Android phone or tablet to the same network as your Android TV device, or pair your Android phone or tablet with your Android TV via Bluetooth.
Yatse
Yatse is the next app on my list of the top universal emote applications for iOS and Android.
Yatse is, without a doubt, the most popular and highly esteemed universal remote for Kodi enthusiasts. Integrates with Kodi, Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin in addition to your local device.
It allows streaming to UPnP, AirPlay, Chromecast, FireTV, Roku, and Smart TV devices. The only downside to this program is that there is no iOS version available.
