How to Use iPhone as Apple TV Remote: Step-by-Step Setup Guide

June 9, 2025

To use your iPhone as an Apple TV remote, add the Apple TV Remote to your Control Center, ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network, tap the remote icon, and enter the 4-digit code shown on your TV screen. This instantly transforms your iPhone into a fully functional replacement remote. Now that you know it’s possible, here’s exactly how to use iPhone as apple TV remote and master it.

What You Need to Get Started

Before using your iPhone as an Apple TV remote, check these requirements:

Same Wi-Fi Network: Both devices must share the same Wi-Fi connection.
iOS 12 or later: Older iPhones won’t support this feature.
Apple TV 4K or HD (4th gen+): Only newer Apple TV models work.
Bluetooth enabled: For stable device pairing.

Relevant internal link: Learn how to check your iPhone Wi-Fi Settings if you’re unsure.

How to Use iPhone as Apple TV Remote Step by Step

Adding the Remote to Control Center

Open Settings on your iPhone.
Tap Control Center > Customize Controls.
Find Apple TV Remote and tap the + next to it.
Exit Settings—the remote is now in your Control Center.

Pairing Your iPhone with Apple TV

Swipe down from the top-right (or up from bottom on older iPhones) to open Control Center.
Tap the Apple TV Remote icon (looks like a TV with a circle).
Select your Apple TV from the list.
Enter the 4-digit code displayed on your TV screen.

Trouble pairing? Restart both devices (How to Restart Any iPhone).

How to Use the Remote: Buttons & Gestures

Your iPhone remote mirrors the physical Siri Remote. Here’s what each button does:

Button	Function
Touchpad	Swipe to navigate menus; tap to select items.
Menu Button	Go back one screen.
TV/Home	Return to the Apple TV home screen.
Play/Pause	Control video playback.
Siri Button	Hold to speak commands (e.g., “Open Netflix”).
Search	Jump directly to search mode.

Hidden Tricks:

Long-press the TV Button: Opens sleep/control options.
Double-tap Menu: Activates screen savers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Remote Won’t Connect

Solutions:

Verify Wi-Fi: Both devices must show the same network name in Settings.
Restart Apple TV: Unplug it for 10 seconds, then reconnect.
Re-pair the remote: Remove it from Control Center, re-add it, and retry pairing.

No Physical Remote to Access Apple TV Settings?

If you can’t access settings because the original remote is lost:

Use a universal remote programmed for Apple TV.
Borrow an Android phone with an IR blaster to navigate settings.

Need more help? Explore The Ultimate iPhone User Guide for general tips.

Apple TV Remote vs. Apple TV App: Don’t Get Confused!

People often mix up two different things:

Apple TV Remote (what we covered): A tool in Control Center to control your physical Apple TV box.
Apple TV App: An app for streaming shows, renting movies, or watching Apple Events.

What the Apple TV App Does:

Stream Apple TV+ shows (requires subscription).
Rent or buy movies (stored in your Apple ID library).
Watch free Apple Events (e.g., iPhone launch keynotes).

Transfer content? Use How to Connect iPhone to iTunes to sync videos to the app.

Final Tips

Battery-saving tip: Close the remote from Control Center when not in use.
Multi-device homes: Tap the remote’s top menu to switch between Apple TVs.
For seniors: Use bold text in iPhone Settings > Display for easier reading.

Simplified guides: See How to Use iPhone for Seniors.

FAQ: iPhone as Apple TV Remote

1. Q: Do I need the original Apple TV remote to set this up?
A: No! If your physical remote is lost, use a universal remote or an Android phone with an IR blaster to navigate your Apple TV settings. Go to Settings > General > Remotes to add your iPhone manually.

2. Q: Why won’t my iPhone connect to Apple TV?
A: Fix this in 3 steps:

Ensure both devices use the exact same Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi setup guide).
Restart both devices (iPhone restart tutorial).
Re-add the remote in Control Center (Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls).

3. Q: Can I use the remote without Wi-Fi?
A: No. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network. Bluetooth alone won’t work.

4. Q: What’s the difference between the Apple TV Remote and Apple TV app?
A:

Remote: Controls your physical Apple TV box (in Control Center).
TV App: Streams shows, rents movies, or watches events (a standalone app).
Example: Use the remote to open Netflix, but use the TV app to watch "Ted Lasso."

5. Q: Are there hidden features?
A: Yes! Try these:

Long-press the TV button: Sleep or control volume.
Double-tap Menu: Launch screen savers.
Swipe to type: Swipe letters on the keyboard in search mode.

Conclusion: Your iPhone Is the Ultimate Backup Remote

Losing your Apple TV remote no longer means missing movie night. With your iPhone, you get a full-featured replacement in minutes—complete with touch controls, Siri commands, and hidden tricks. Just remember: