Alternative solutions when losing Smart TV remote control

Your Smart TV remote is missing again. Maybe it got stuck between cushions, lost in a pile of laundry, or just disappeared. Before you get frustrated, try these simple solutions to control your Smart TV  without having to run all over the house.

Table of Contents

• 6. Use your smartphone as a remote control
• 5. Try using a universal remote control 
• 4. Use a smart speaker or voice assistant
• 3. Enable HDMI-CEC to use other device's remote control
• 2. Buy tracking devices
• 1. Create a dedicated remote control storage area

6. Use your smartphone as a remote control

An easy way to control your Smart TV if you lose the remote is to use your smartphone. Most Smart TVs have official remote control apps, like SmartThings for Samsung, LG ThinQ, and Roku Remote. If you have an Android TV, the Google TV app works on every device. Just connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your TV and you’re good to go.

If your TV brand doesn't offer a dedicated app, don't worry. Third-party universal remote control apps, like Vsray Universal Remote or CodeMatics, work with many Smart TVs as long as your phone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

5. Try using a universal remote control

If your original remote is permanently lost, a universal remote can be a great long-term solution. These remotes are designed to work with multiple TV brands and other home entertainment devices like soundbars, streaming boxes, and Blu-ray players.

The simplest universal remotes, like the GE Universal Remote, let you program them manually using a manufacturer code. Meanwhile, more advanced options allow for app-based setup and even support custom macros. The Sofabaton X1 is one such option. The Logitech Harmony Elite is another. These advanced remotes let you control multiple devices with a single press of a button.

4. Use a smart speaker or voice assistant

With a smart speaker or voice assistant like Amazon Alexa , Google Assistant , or Apple Siri , you may not need a physical remote to control your TV. Many Smart TVs and streaming devices support voice commands, allowing you to control your TV hands-free.

If you have a Fire TV, saying “Alexa, turn on the TV” or “Alexa, play Stranger Things on Netflix” will get the job done. Google Assistant works similarly with Chromecast and Android TV, allowing for commands like “Google, pause TV.” If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, Siri can control Apple TV via HomeKit .

Even if your TV doesn't have built-in voice support, some smart speakers can act as a bridge. For example, the Amazon Echo with Fire TV or the Google Nest speaker with Chromecast allow for full voice control.

Voice commands won't replace every function of a traditional remote, but they're a quick, convenient way to regain control without buying a new remote.

3. Enable HDMI-CEC to use other device's remote control

If you have a game console, Blu-ray player, or streaming device connected to your TV, you may have a spare remote without even realizing it. Most Smart TVs support HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), a feature that allows one remote to control multiple connected devices.

For example, if you have a PlayStation or Xbox, you can navigate streaming apps on your TV with your game controller. Likewise, if you have a Roku, Apple TV, or Fire Stick, their remotes can often control the TV's volume and power.

To enable HDMI-CEC, go into your TV's settings menu (it may be called Anynet+ (Samsung), BRAVIA Sync (Sony), SimpLink (LG), or CEC on other brands). Once enabled, your streaming or gaming device's remote can take over basic TV controls.

This isn't a perfect replacement for all the features, but if you just need to turn on your TV and start streaming, this trick can save the day.

2. Buy tracking devices

Remotes can disappear at the worst times. Instead of flipping over your sofa every time, attach a Bluetooth tracker to it. These small, lightweight gadgets let you track your remote with your phone, saving you the trouble of fumbling around looking for it.

With Tile Mate, Apple AirTag, or Samsung SmartTag, you can use your phone to make a remote that will emit a sound when it’s nearby. If it’s hidden under a blanket or nestled between couch cushions, you’ll find it in seconds. Some trackers also show the last known location on a map, which is useful if your remote tends to wander to unexpected places (like the refrigerator).

If your remote control is prone to loss, a tracking device is an easy way to keep it from disappearing forever.

1. Create a dedicated remote control storage area

One of the easiest ways to avoid losing your remote is to designate a permanent home for it. Whether it's a remote control case, a wall mount, or a specific spot on your coffee table, having a dedicated place makes it easier to keep track of it.

If you tend to leave your remote between the sofa cushions, consider using Velcro or a magnetic holder to attach it to a fixed location when not in use. Some people even use decorative bowls or trays near the seating area to keep all of their remotes in one place.

For households with multiple people, a family rule can also be helpful—something as simple as “always put the remote back on the shelf” can cut down on chaos.

While this solution won't prevent the occasional forgetfulness, having a designated remote control storage area will reduce the chance of the remote disappearing into the comforter, mattress, or kitchen.

Losing your TV remote is one of those small but annoying inconveniences that always seems to happen at the worst possible times. But instead of cluttering up your living room every time the remote goes missing, you now have some clever solutions for controlling your TV.