Tired of Lost TV Remotes? Use Your Old Smartphone as a Backup (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

 

This article explains how to repurpose an old smartphone as a TV box remote control. Learn step - by - step methods to turn your unused device into a convenient, eco - friendly solution for streaming. Discover compatible apps, setup tips, and creative ways to enhance your home entertainment experience while reducing electronic waste.

Contents

1.Brief Introduction

2.Why choose an old cell phone as a remote control?

2.1. Who doesn't love the joy of saving money?

2.2. One cell phone to control the whole family's electrical appliances

2.3. How cool can it be to be eco-friendly?

2.4. Emergency Rescue: 5 seconds to take over the scene of loss of control

2.5. Statistics: Americans waste 15 hours a year looking for the remote control.

2.6. Hidden Skills: All the appliances in the house in one place!

3.Preparation: checking device compatibility

3.1. Phone requirements: does your old phone meet the criteria for “onboarding”?

3.2. TV/streaming device compatibility: don't let technical issues ruin your program

3.3. Living Scenario: How to get the compatibility check easily?

4.Method 1: Control via WiFi (for Smart TV/Streaming Box)

4.1. Install the remote control app: choose the right “remote control brain” for you.

4.2. Connected devices: let the phone and TV “heart to heart”

4.3. Advanced Function Settings: Make your cell phone remote control “smarter”.

5.Method 2: Infrared control (for non-smart TV/DVD players)

5.1. Make sure your phone is infrared-enabled: this is the first step to success!

5.2. Download infrared remote control apps: choose the right “remote control brain” for you.

5.3. Match the device code: let the phone and device “heart to heart”.

5.4. Lifestyle scenarios: How to get infrared control easily?

6.Tips to optimize the experience

6.1. Prevent your phone from sleeping: don't let the “sleepy bug” ruin your movie watching experience!

6.2. Power saving mode: make your phone more durable

6.3. Physical stand solution: make the phone more stable

6.4. Security Tips: Privacy protection is key

7.Other Creative Uses for Old Cell Phones

7.1. Baby monitor: keep an eye on your baby's every move

7.2. Electronic photo frames: using old cell phones to create a family memory wall

7.3. Car navigation: let your old cell phone become your “driving assistant”.

7.4. Security Camera: Use your old cell phone to create “free surveillance”.

7.5. Game simulator: make your old phone your “retro game console”.

7.6. Smart Home Hub: Use your old phone to control your whole family's appliances

8.Summary

9.FAQ

Do you have an old cell phone lying in a drawer collecting dust? Instead of letting it become e-waste, give it a new mission! Nowadays, remote controls for smart TVs and streaming devices are convenient but headache-inducing in terms of their small size and tendency to get lost or run out of battery. In fact, by using your old cell phone and some free tools, you can easily turn it into a multifunctional remote control, even more powerful than the original one. This article will show you how to do it by hand, from compatibility checking to advanced feature settings, taking you to unlock the hidden potential of your old device while doing your part for the environment.

Why choose an old cell phone as a remote control?

Don't rush to place your order for a new remote just yet! You probably already have a universal replacement eating dust in your drawer!

1. Who doesn't love the joy of saving money?

Reddit user @CouchCommander saved $120+ by replacing the remotes for 3 different devices with a 2013 Samsung Galaxy S4. That's because his remote was just chewed into a piece of abstract art by the family dog as a teething stick.

Imagine you just spent $50 on a streaming remote that your dog chewed into a piece of abstract art. If you take out your old cell phone and install a free app, you can solve the problem - not only do you save money on a new remote control, but you can also turn your old device from “electronic garbage” into treasure.

2. One cell phone to control the whole family's electrical appliances

Normal remote control can only command the TV, but your old phone can be transformed into a super control center:

• Use your voice to turn down the volume of your TV and turn on the lights in your living room at the same time.
• Enter Netflix passwords on your phone's keypad on the fly (3x faster than poking letters on your remote!).
• Switch “game mode” (close curtains + turn on stereo + dim lights) with a single click.

Comparison: It takes only 8 seconds to enter “HBO123!” password with your cell phone remote control, while the traditional remote control needs to poke the arrow keys 32 times.

3. How cool can it be to be eco-friendly?

According to the EPA, Americans throw away 150 million old cell phones each year, 60% of which are still in working order. Instead of letting your old device collect dust in a drawer (or pollute the environment), keep it glowing - the equivalent of producing 9 million fewer plastic remotes each year!

4. Emergency Rescue: 5 seconds to take over the scene of loss of control

Bear child stuffed the remote control into the sofa seam? Calmly pull out your cell phone and keep watching the Stranger Things finale.

A dog is interested in a new remote control? Old cell phones can be chewed on (they're out of warranty anyway).

Can't use the smart TV when mom and dad come over? Set up “Easy Mode for Elderly” in advance (enlarged fonts + only 3 frequently used apps).

5. Statistics: Americans waste 15 hours a year looking for the remote control.

(Source: YouGov 2024 survey)

Based on the average American's hourly wage of 34, that equates to 510 wasted per year! That's enough money to buy a new game console. What's even more devastating - 71% of people end up finding the remote on top of the fridge/in the pet's kennel/under the toilet tissue box (don't ask me how I know).

6. Hidden Skills: All the appliances in the house in one place!

My neighbor Sarah uses an old iPhone to achieve these magic tricks:

• 7am: turn on the coffee maker from her phone.
• 8pm: start “movie night” with a single click (lower the projection screen + turn off the lights + turn on the Blu-ray player).
• Even:control the vintage radio via a smart outlet!

“Since unifying the controls with my phone, my husband no longer has an excuse for not being able to find the remote.” --Sarah's honest review

 

“Sounds wonderful, but what exactly do I do?” Don't worry, as long as your phone isn't a Nokia 3310, follow these three steps to bring an old device back to life in 20 minutes--

Preparation: checking device compatibility

Now that we've talked about why it's smart to use your old phone as a remote control, it's time to talk about how to make your old phone truly “ready” for its new role. After all, even the best ideas need hardware support, so in this step, we need to double-check the compatibility of the device to make sure everything is ready.

1. Phone requirements: does your old phone meet the criteria for “onboarding”?

First of all, let's make it clear that not all old cell phones can be transformed into remote controls. Although the function of the old phone may not be as powerful as the new machine, but as a remote control, it still needs to meet some basic conditions.

(1) Minimum system version: Android 7+ / iOS 12+

Don't worry, this requirement is actually not that high. If your old phone can still run some basic apps smoothly, then it most likely already meets this condition. For example, 2016 iPhone 7 or 2017 Samsung Galaxy S8, the system versions of these devices can basically support the remote control function.

(2) Infrared function detection: one click with an app

Many old cell phones are equipped with infrared sensors, but not all of them will turn on this function by default. You can use some free apps (e.g. “Quick IR Checker”) to quickly check whether your phone supports infrared function.

• Tips:Open the app, point it at your TV or other IR-enabled device, and click the “Test” button. If the device responds, it means your phone's infrared function is normal and you can use it safely.

2. TV/streaming device compatibility: don't let technical issues ruin your program

Device compatibility is the key to the success of your old cell phone remote control plan. If your TV or streaming device doesn't support the relevant protocols, then even the best old cell phone will be useless. Here are a few areas to focus on:

(1) Must-check items for smart TVs: whether the HDMI-CEC protocol is supported or not

HDMI-CEC protocol sounds very professional, but its role is actually very simple - it allows multiple devices to be controlled through a single device. For example, you can control your TV with your cell phone, or even control your stereo or Blu-ray player through your TV.

Tips:

Go to the TV settings and find the “HDMI Settings” or “HDMI-CEC” option.

Make sure the HDMI-CEC function is on.

If your TV does not support this protocol, do not worry, many remote control apps can still control devices through infrared signals, but the function will be slightly limited.

(2) Adaptation table for older devices: don't let old devices slow you down!

If you have some “vintage” devices at home (such as pre-2015 Samsung TVs or other old devices), you may need to set up additional settings to make your old cell phone remote control work properly.

Solution:

Look for the device's “infrared code”, which can be entered into the remote control app to help the phone recognize and control the device.

There are many online communities (such as Reddit or dedicated smart appliance forums) that share these IR codes, and you can get them by searching for the device model number.

Real Case:

My neighbor Sarah has a 2014 LG Smart TV. After she downloaded a remote control app, she realized she couldn't control the TV directly. However, she found the IR code of this TV online and successfully entered it into the app. Now, she has no problem at all controlling the TV with her old iPhone, and can even control the home stereo at the same time.

3. Living Scenario: How to get the compatibility check easily?

compatibility check, you can follow these simple steps.

(1) Use an app to test your phone's functionality

Download a free IR checker app (e.g. “Quick IR Checker”) and follow the instructions to see if your phone supports IR.

Tip: If the test result shows that your phone doesn't support infrared, don't be discouraged, it may just be that the feature has been turned off. Go to your phone's settings and search for “infrared” or “infrared sensor” to make sure the feature is turned on.

(2) Check TV/Streaming Device Compatibility

Go to TV settings, find HDMI-CEC or related options, make sure the function is enabled. If you are not sure, you can refer to the user manual or search for the device model plus “HDMI-CEC support” on the Internet to confirm.

(3) Verify with actual operation

Download a remote control app (e.g. “Universal Remote Control” or “SmartIR Remote”), follow the prompts to enter the device information or infrared code, and then try to control the TV or other devices with your phone. If it works, then everything is ready!

Method 1: Control via WiFi (for Smart TV/Streaming Box)

Now that we've finished the preparation for device compatibility, it's time to get hands-on! Controlling your smart TV or streaming box via WiFi is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to turn your old phone into a remote control. Whether it's Google TV, Roku, or Fire TV, all of these devices support the phone's remote control function perfectly. Below, we'll show you step-by-step how to do it and how to take the experience to the next level with a few tips.

1. Install the remote control app: choose the right “remote control brain” for you.

Installing a remote control app is the first step in the whole process, but there are a lot of “potholes” to avoid. Don't just download any app, let's recommend a few reliable choices first.

(1) Recommended apps: Google TV App (Android/iOS universal) and Roku App (best in North America)

Google TV App: If you are using Google Chromecast, Nest devices or Google TV-compatible smart TVs at home, this App is definitely your best choice. Not only does it support basic remote control functions, but it also allows you to search for programs directly, manage multiple devices, and even integrate voice assistants (Alexa or Google Assistant).

Roku App: If you are a Roku user, this app is simply customized for you. It supports all of Roku's features and also provides direct access to Roku's channel store from your phone, making it easy to add your favorite content whenever you want.

Guide to avoiding pitfalls: Beware of fake apps asking for too many permissions

Some apps may look powerful, but they may actually be “spying” on your privacy. For example, some fake remote control apps may ask for access to your camera, microphone and even contact list, which is obviously unreasonable. Choose regular app stores (such as Google Play or Apple App Store) to download, and prioritize apps with big brands or high ratings.

2. Connected devices: let the phone and TV “heart to heart”

After installing the app, the next step is to connect the device. This process is actually very simple, but there are a few tips that will allow you to get twice the result with half the effort.

(1) Advanced Tips: Auto-pairing with cell phone scanning code (for Fire TV, etc.)

Many smart TVs or streaming boxes support the “code pairing” function. For example, Fire TV users only need to open the Roku App or Fire TV App on their cell phones, and then scan the QR code on the TV screen with the cell phone camera to complete the pairing quickly. This is much faster than the traditional way of entering the device code.

(2) Troubleshooting: WiFi band switching (2.4GHz vs 5GHz on control latency)

If you notice a delay in controlling your TV from your phone, it's likely due to the WiFi band. 5GHz band is fast but has poor signal coverage, while 2.4GHz band is slightly slower but has wider coverage.

Solution:

If your router supports it, try connecting both your phone and TV to the same band (e.g., select 2.4GHz for both).

If that doesn't work, try restarting your router or changing channels.

Tip: Check the connection status of your device with a mobile app (e.g. Fing) to see if there is any signal interference.

3. Advanced Function Settings: Make your cell phone remote control “smarter”.

Mobile remote control via WiFi is not only a substitute, but also can realize some advanced functions that traditional remote control can't do. These functions not only enhance your movie watching experience, but also make life easier.

(1) Voice Search Integration (Calling Alexa/Google Assistant at the same time)

If your phone supports voice assistants (such as Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant), you can call them directly through the remote control app. For example, you can say “Alexa, play Stranger Things” or “Google Assistant, turn up the volume”.

Tips for operation:

Find the “Voice Control” option in the app settings and make sure it's authorized.

If supported, you can also set a shortcut phrase, such as “Movie Night” to launch a specific mode directly.

(2) Create customized shortcuts (e.g. “Movie Night” mode: turn off lights + turn on TV + start Netflix)

The Advanced Remote App supports custom shortcuts, which means you can combine multiple actions into one button. For example:

• “Movie Night": turn off the lights, turn on the TV and start Netflix with one button.
• “Game Mode": one button to dim the lights, mute phone notifications and launch a game.

Method 2: Infrared control (for non-smart TV/DVD players)

If you still have some old “non-smart” devices at home, such as traditional TVs, DVD players or air conditioners, don't worry, your old cell phone can still be your “omnipotent remote control”! With infrared control, you can turn your old cell phone into an easy way to control these devices. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do this.

1. Make sure your phone is infrared-enabled: this is the first step to success!

First of all, we need to make sure your old phone supports infrared function. The infrared function is realized by the infrared sensor on the phone, which is able to send infrared signals to control the device. Although not all cell phones are equipped with this feature, many old cell phones support it.

(1) How can I check if my cell phone supports the infrared feature?

You can quickly confirm it in several ways:

Check your phone's manual: this is the most direct way, but if your phone has been in use for a few years, you may not be able to find the manual for a long time.

Download testing apps: For example, “Quick IR Checker”, open the app and point it at your TV or DVD player, click the “Test” button, if the device responds, it means your phone supports infrared function.

Manual test: In a dark environment, use your phone's screen to illuminate the TV, if the TV responds (e.g. the screen becomes darker or brighter), it means that the infrared function is normal.

2. Download infrared remote control apps: choose the right “remote control brain” for you.

After confirming that your phone supports infrared function, the next step is to download a suitable remote control app. There are many infrared remote control apps on the market, but some of them are especially recommended.

(1) First choice: Sure Universal Remote (the most complete database)

Pros: Sure Universal Remote has the most comprehensive device database, supporting almost all traditional TVs, DVD players, air conditioners and other devices.

Easy to operate: Simply enter the make and model of the device and the app will automatically match the corresponding IR code.

Multi-device support: you can control multiple devices at the same time, such as controlling TV, stereo and air conditioner with one cell phone.

(2) Alternative: Peel Smart Remote (more intuitive interface)

Pros: Peel Smart Remote's interface is designed to be very intuitive and suitable for users who are less familiar with the technology.

Smooth operation: Although the database is not as comprehensive as Sure Universal Remote, it supports a wide range of devices and operates very smoothly.

Guide to avoiding the pit: Be wary of fake apps

Some apps may look powerful, but they may actually be “spying” on your privacy. For example, some fake remote control apps may ask for access to your camera, microphone or even contact list, which is obviously unreasonable. Choose regular app stores (e.g. Google Play or Apple App Store) to download, and prioritize apps with big brands or high ratings.

3. Match the device code: let the phone and device “heart to heart”.

After installing the app, the next step is to match the device code. This step is a bit like teaching your phone how to “speak” the language your device “understands”.

(1) Quickly locate the brand code:

Most devices have a fixed code, you can search “infrared code list” to find the corresponding brand code.

(2) Blind operation guide: automatic scanning protocol when there is no brand list.

If you are not sure about the code of your device, don't worry, many apps support “auto scan” function. For example, Sure Universal Remote can scan the infrared signals of your TV or DVD player and automatically match the corresponding code.

4. Lifestyle scenarios: How to get infrared control easily?

(1) Control old devices with cell phones

If you still have some old devices at home, such as DVD players or air conditioners, old cell phones can be easily handled by infrared control. For example, you can use your cell phone to control the DVD player to play movies or adjust the temperature of the air conditioner, without the need to look for the old remote control.

(2) Activate “Movie Watching Mode” with one click

With the infrared control, you can set up one-touch “movie watching mode”, such as turning off the lights, dimming the TV and launching Netflix, which is a “magic tool” for people who like to watch movies at home.

(3)Solve the problem of “lost remote control”.

If you often can't find the remote control, your old cell phone is your “spare remote control”. Whether it's a TV, stereo or air conditioner, you can easily control it from your cell phone.

Tips to optimize the experience

Now that we've mastered how to turn an old phone into a remote control, it's time to optimize the experience! After all, even the best tool needs a few hacks to make it perfect. Whether it's preventing your phone from going to sleep, power saving modes, or a physical stand solution, these little details can take your old phone's remote to the next level.

1. Prevent your phone from sleeping: don't let the “sleepy bug” ruin your movie watching experience!

The biggest problem with using your old cell phone as a remote control is that it tends to go into hibernation mode. When you are immersed in the movie plot, your phone suddenly goes black, won't it be a bad idea? Don't worry, we have a solution!

(1) Adjust the screen timeout setting

Go to your phone's settings, find the “Display” or “Screen” option, and set the “Screen Timeout” to “Never” or the longest time. “or the longest time. In this way, the phone will not automatically black screen in a short period of time.

(2) Use power saving mode

If you are worried that your phone is draining too fast, you can turn on the power saving mode. However, remember to exclude the Remote Control App from the Power Saving Mode to make sure it works properly.

2. Power saving mode: make your phone more durable

Frequent use of the remote control function does consume phone power, but we can take some measures to extend the battery life.

(1) Optimize Battery Settings

Go to your phone's settings, find the “Battery” option, and turn off unnecessary background processes and automatic updates. This way, the phone can focus more on remote control tasks.

(2) Use a rechargeable battery

If you often use your cell phone remote control for a long time, you can prepare a small rechargeable battery to charge your cell phone at any time.

3. Physical stand solution: make the phone more stable

In order to prevent the phone from slipping or mistakenly touching, we can prepare a physical stand for the old phone.

(1) DIY Stand

If you like to do it, you can use some simple materials (such as tape, cardboard) to make a simple stand to fix the phone next to the TV.

(2) Buy a ready-made stand

There are many cheap phone stands available online that can easily hold your phone in place and prevent it from slipping.

Prevent accidental touch: Turn on 'Guided Access' (iOS) or 'Screen Hold' (Android)

If you're worried about your family or pets accidentally touching your phone's screen, you can turn on the following features:

• iOS:Go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access, set a password and the phone screen will be fixed.
• Android: Download apps such as “Screen Lock”, and the screen will also be locked after setting a password.

4. Security Tips: Privacy protection is key

Although it's very convenient to use an old cell phone as a remote control, we can't ignore the privacy issue. Here are some safety tips:

(1) Guide to resetting your old cell phone

Before using your old cell phone as a remote control, it is recommended to erase the privacy data completely.

• iOS: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Erase all contents and settings.
• Android:Go to Settings > System > Reset > Restore Factory Settings > Erase all contents.

(2) Check privacy settings regularly

Make sure your phone is no longer connected to any sensitive accounts or services to avoid privacy leakage.

Other Creative Uses for Old Cell Phones

Now that we've talked about how to turn your old cell phone into an all-purpose remote control, you may be wondering what else you can do with your old cell phone. In fact, apart from being a remote control, there are many other creative uses for your old cell phone that you can put it to good use in your life. Next, we will list some interesting and practical new ways to play with old cell phones!

1. Baby monitor: keep an eye on your baby's every move

If you have a newborn baby at home, the old phone can be transformed into your “24-hour baby guardian”.

Specific operation:

Download a baby monitor app (such as “Baby Monitor” or “iBaby”).

Put your old cell phone in your baby's room and turn on the monitor.

You can view your baby's movements in real time on another device (such as a cell phone or tablet) and even hear your baby crying.

Lifestyle scenarios:

Imagine you are cooking dinner in the kitchen and suddenly you hear your baby crying. All you need to do is turn on your phone and you can see the baby's status and even play soft music through the app to soothe the baby. Isn't it a cool feeling of “remote parenting”?

2. Electronic photo frames: using old cell phones to create a family memory wall

Although the screen of the old cell phone is small, but it can still become your “family memory wall”.

Specific operation:

Download an electronic photo frame app (such as “Photo Frame” or “Smart Frame”).

Upload your family photos to the app and set them to rotate automatically.

Put your old phone in your living room, bedroom or kitchen and enjoy your family photos whenever you want.

Real life example:

My neighbor Sarah created a “Family Memory Wall” with her old iPhone. She uploaded photos of her kids, trips, and family dinners to the app and set it to auto-rotate. Now, every time her family passes by, they can see the cozy pictures and feel especially happy.

3. Car navigation: let your old cell phone become your “driving assistant”.

If your car does not have a built-in navigation system, the old phone can be a perfect substitute.

Specific operation:

Download a navigation app (such as Google Maps or Waze).

Set up the navigation function on your old cell phone.

Secure your old phone to the front of your car or attach it to a car mount.

Tips:

If your old phone supports voice assistants (such as Siri or Google Assistant), you can enter your destination directly by voice and do not need to do it manually at all.

If you are worried that your old cell phone consumes power too quickly, you can prepare a car charger.

4. Security Camera: Use your old cell phone to create “free surveillance”.

If you are worried about the safety of your home, your old cell phone can become your “free security camera”.

Specific operation:

Download a remote camera app (e.g. “Alfred Cam”).

Attach your old cell phone to a corner or door frame and turn on the monitoring function.

You can view the dynamics of your home in real time on another device, and even receive alerts about abnormal situations.

5. Game simulator: make your old phone your “retro game console”.

If you are a game lover, the old cell phone can become your “retro game console”.

How to do it:

Download a game emulator app (e.g. “RetroArch”).

Download some classic game ROMs (e.g. “Super Mario”).

Run these classic games on your old cell phone and feel the memories of your childhood.

6. Smart Home Hub: Use your old phone to control your whole family's appliances

If you have more than one smart device at home, your old phone can become your “smart home hub”.

Specific operation:

Download a smart home control app (such as “Home Assistant”).

Connect your smart devices (e.g. smart bulbs, smart sockets, smart air conditioners) to the app.

Use your old phone to control all the devices in a unified way.

Summary

Transforming your old cell phone into a TV remote control is not only simple and practical, but also adds convenience to your daily life. Whether it's controlling a streaming device via WiFi or operating an old TV with the infrared function, it only takes a few free apps and 10 minutes of setup time to bring an idle device back to life. In addition, reasonable optimization of power consumption and operating habits can ensure it works stably for a long time. Next time you can't find your remote control, try this solution - it's environmentally friendly and saves money.

FAQ

1. Can all old cell phones be used as remote controls?

As long as the phone supports WiFi or infrared function (most models after 2015 are available) and the system is not too old.

 

2. Do I need to keep the phone screen on all the time? Will it consume a lot of power?

It is recommended to turn on the always-on mode, but power consumption can be reduced by power saving settings (e.g. dimming the brightness, closing background programs), which usually consumes about 5%-8% of power per hour.

 

3. What if the TV and cell phone are not on the same WiFi network?

You must make sure both are connected to the same network. If you encounter problems, you can restart the router or check the firewall settings.

 

4. How far is the IR remote control distance?

A: Usually 5-8 meters, you need to make sure the IR emitter of your phone is aimed at the receiver of the device (usually at the bottom of the TV).

 

5. Will remote control apps collect my data?

Choose a highly rated app (e.g. Sure Universal) and read the permission request carefully to avoid granting unnecessary data access.