No. An IR blaster is not required to control a supported Android TV or Google TV device with a phone over Wi-Fi. You need infrared only when the target device relies on an IR receiver and there is no compatible app or network-control option. In that case, the phone needs a built-in IR emitter or a compatible external accessory, plus an app that supports the target device.
Why “universal remote” does not mean one connection method
A phone can act as a remote through different technologies. An app may send commands over Wi-Fi to a compatible TV, while an infrared remote sends commands directly to the device’s IR receiver. Some setups also use Bluetooth. Which method works—and which buttons are available—depends on the phone, app, target model, and the functions you want to control.
Control Android TV or Google TV over Wi-Fi
For a supported Android TV, Google’s documented phone-remote method uses the Google TV app. Google says the phone and TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network to connect this way. Follow the app’s on-screen pairing instructions: Google’s Android TV phone-remote instructions.
- Connect the phone and Android TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Google TV app and select the remote option.
- Choose the TV, then complete the pairing steps shown in the app and on the TV.
- Try the controls you need, such as navigation, volume, power, or input, rather than assuming every remote function is supported.
Google TV setup features and connection requirements can vary by region and manufacturer, so an app-based remote should not be assumed to work with every television or streaming device: Google TV setup guidance.
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- 【Compatible Devices】Universal replacement remote control is compatible with TV brands for Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, Onn, Sharp, RCA, Element, Westinghouse, Sanyo, Emerson, Philips, JVC, Sceptre, Sansui, Panasonic, Magnavox, Skyworth TV and More Brand Smart TVs. Compatible with of devices, including DVD/Blu-ray players, Media Streaming Players and more!
- 【NOT Compatible Devices】Universal remote is Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks, Roku Sound Bar, TLC Sound Bar, Hisense Sound Bar, Anker Sound Bar, Klipsch Sound Bar, All Fire TV, All TV Sticks, All TV Cube, Apple TV, Google Chromecast TV(This product can only be connected and paired via infrared) If you are unsure if our remote control is compatible with your device, please contact us.
- 【Simple Setup】Step 1: Find the device type you need in the code list. Then find and circle all the codes for the brand. Step 2: Press and hold down the (SETUP) button for 3 seconds until the red light on the remote turns on. Step 3: Press and release the (TV/STR/AUD) button on the remote, the red light will blink once and remain on. Step 4: Enter the first 4-digit code from code list. Step 5: Point the remote at the TV, and test the buttons on the remote to see if the TV responds as you would expect. If the buttons don't control the TV, repeat steps 2-4 and enter different code to test. Note:If all the code in the program fails, please check the instructions on page 7 "Automatic Code Search.
- 【Package Included】Package includes 1* Remote Control, 1* User Manual, and 1* Code list. The universal remote control is to use 2 * AAA alkaline batteries(Batteries are not included). Note: Please do not mix old and new batteries or mix different batteries together.
- 【After-Sales Service】We attach great importance to the customer's experience of using remote controls. If you have any questions about your order or product, please contact us and we will get back to you within 24 hours on working days.
When you need infrared
Infrared matters when the device accepts commands through an IR receiver and does not offer a compatible app or network-remote method. The phone must have an IR emitter, or you must connect a compatible external IR accessory. The remote app also needs command support for the specific device. Installing an app alone cannot add an IR emitter to a phone.
Some third-party remote apps describe support for phones with built-in emitters and certain USB IR dongles, but that does not establish that every dongle works with every Android phone. Check the accessory’s compatibility with your phone, operating system, app, and target device before buying. For example, the IR Blaster Remote Google Play listing describes compatible built-in emitters and supported USB IR dongles.
Rank #2
- 【All In One Remote】 Universal remote control for most TV: It works with most major TV: Samsung, Vizio, LG, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Sony Smart TV and Roku TV, allowing you to conveniently control different TVs with just one remote.
- 【Please note】 This universal remote is NOT compatible with the following devices: Roku Streaming Sticks Any TV Sticks (all brands) All TV Cubes Roku, TCL, Hisense, Anker, or Klipsch Sound Bars All Fi TV Devices This remote connects and pairs via infrared only. If you're unsure whether this remote works with your device, please contact us before purchasing.
- 【One-Click Streaming Access】 Get instant access to your favorite streaming apps like NFLX, Video, Dis+, and Hulu with dedicated hot keys—no more scrolling through menus.
- 【Quick & Easy Setup】 Start using your new remote right away. Designed for most major TVs, setup is a breeze: simply add two AAA batteries (not included), then press and hold the two setup buttons. The included manual will walk you through the rest—no fuss.
- 【Worry-Free 90-Day Warranty】 Your satisfaction is our priority. To ensure a great experience, we stand behind our products with a 90-day return warranty. If you have any questions, please contact us directly. We guarantee a response within 12 hours.
Some devices combine IR, Bluetooth, and network control
IR is not always an all-or-nothing choice for a TV setup. TCL documents infrared and Bluetooth as possible communication methods for its Android TV remote. Sony says certain Google TV and Android TV models can control set-top boxes using IR, including with an IR blaster cable supplied with certain models; supported codes depend on whether the device manufacturer is listed. These are model-specific examples, not a guarantee that one method works across all TVs or boxes.
Choose a control method for your device
| Option | What it needs | Best fit | What to verify |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi app remote | A compatible app and target device; Google’s documented Android TV method requires the phone and TV on the same Wi-Fi network. | Supported Android TV or Google TV control over the local network. | Exact TV or streaming-device support and the controls the app provides. |
| Phone’s built-in IR | An IR emitter in the phone, an IR receiver on the target, and an app with compatible commands. | IR-controlled devices without a compatible app or network remote. | Phone hardware, target model, and app command support. |
| External IR accessory | A compatible IR accessory, phone connection, and remote app that supports it. | A phone without built-in IR when IR control is necessary. | Compatibility across the accessory, phone, operating system, app, and target device. |
| Bluetooth remote connection | A target and remote setup that support Bluetooth. | Models whose remote uses Bluetooth for some or all controls. | Supported model and which functions use Bluetooth rather than another method. |
| Physical universal remote | A remote compatible with the target device or its command codes. | A device without a suitable phone-control path. | Compatibility with the exact TV, box, or appliance; no single model is established as suitable for every device. |
Check compatibility before relying on a phone remote
- Identify the exact target model. “Android TV” or a brand name alone may not establish support for every remote feature.
- Try the official network option first. For Android TV, use Google’s phone remote instructions and the same-Wi-Fi requirement.
- If the target needs IR, check the hardware. Confirm that the phone has an IR emitter, or verify that an external IR accessory works with the phone and app.
- Test the buttons that matter. Check power, volume, input, navigation, and standby on the actual setup. Support for one command does not prove support for all commands.
For Xiaomi phones, Xiaomi describes Mi Remote as using the phone’s IR blaster; the app does not make a phone without that hardware an infrared remote: Xiaomi España support. Another third-party app listing describes Wi-Fi and IR modes, but its claims should be checked against the specific device: Universal TV Remote Control Google Play listing.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Multi-device control – Operate up to four audio and video devices such as your TV, Blu-ray player, DVD player, cable or satellite receiver, soundbar, streaming media player or other compatible devices
- Best remote code library – Universal remote works with all major brands and supports thousands of the latest audio and video devices (not for use with radio frequency devices like Roku Streaming Sticks and Amazon Fire TV/Sticks)
- Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs – Universal remote’s TV button is preprogrammed for immediate use with Samsung TVs – simply add two AAA batteries (not included)
- Simple setup – Enjoy easy automatic code search and direct code entry programming, as well as master volume control to adjust the audio no matter which device is being used
- Designer finish and ergonomic design – The universal remote’s silver finish adds an extra touch of elegance to any decor while its ergonomic design fits comfortably in hand
Rank #4
- 【Package lncluded】 Pack of 2 remote. Two-pack remote control can solve your home backup remote control needs. Infrared remote no pairing or programming needed. Just Insert 2 Pcs*AAA batteries to get it work(Batteries and manual are not included)
- 【Applicable Type】This infrared replacement remote works with all Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, Series TV,Compatible with All Samsung Series TVs. We offer you an authentic details same as we advertised.
- 【Key Features】The universal infrared TV remote features 3 shortcut buttons. It is perfect to replace your old or damaged Samsung TV Remote with the Loutoc remote.
- 【Quick Response】This is the updated infrared remote control for Samsung TVs. An outstanding response between TV and remotes, it will respond quickly in 0.5 seconds, available directly use within 10 meters (32 feet).
- 【After-sale Service】We provide 30 days warranty with no condition return or exchange. If you have any query, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible within 24 hours.
Rank #3
- All-In-One Universal Remote: This universal remote is compatible with a wide range of TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Sony, Sharp, Vizio, Philips, Toshiba, Hitachi, Sanyo, JVC, TCL, Hisense, Vestel, Seiki, Insignia, Magnavox, Haier, Panasonic, and more. It’s the perfect solution for replacing old or damaged remotes.
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Designed for easy handling, this remote is lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to hold. It offers a comprehensive set of functions, ensuring you have everything needed at your fingertips.
- Easy Brand Setup: Setting up your remote is simple! Just press the corresponding brand button for 5 seconds until the LED flashes three times, indicating that the setup is complete. An instruction manual is included for your convenience.
- Durable and High-Quality Construction: Made from high-quality ABS material, this remote is built for longevity and durability. It features a long transmission range, and the soft, easy-to-press buttons make for a smooth user experience.
- Fluorescent Button Visibility: Equipped with fluorescent buttons, this remote provides excellent visibility in dark environments, allowing you to easily operate the remote at night.
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