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You can often control an LG Smart TV with the LG ThinQ app, but the TV generally must already be on and connected to Wi-Fi to pair it. If it is offline or the app cannot complete registration, use the TV’s onboard control or a compatible replacement remote to get through setup.
Choose the method that fits your TV’s setup
| Method | Best when | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|
| LG ThinQ app | The TV is on and connected to Wi-Fi, and you can respond to the TV screen. | Initial registration requires the TV to be on the same Wi-Fi network as the phone and a PIN displayed on the TV. |
| TV’s onboard control | You need basic control to begin navigating or set up another option. | Button location and functions vary by model; there is no verified universal procedure. |
| Compatible replacement remote | The TV is not online or you need a physical controller. | Compatibility and supported features depend on the TV model and region. |
Set up the LG ThinQ app as a virtual remote
LG’s ThinQ app provides remote controls for supported LG TVs, including inputs, volume, channels, pointer, scrolling, arrow keys, and OK. Available controls can vary with the TV model and app version. LG’s setup guidance is available in its ThinQ app setup instructions and TV registration guide.
- Install the official LG ThinQ app and sign in to an LG account for initial setup.
- Turn on the TV. Connect the phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network. LG’s July 2024 setup article specifies the same 2.4 GHz network for Wi-Fi setup. Its registration guide directs users to connect the phone to the TV’s Wi-Fi network and turn off mobile data during registration.
- In ThinQ, choose Add a Device, select the TV, and choose your TV from the available-device list.
- Enter the PIN shown on the TV screen to complete registration.
- Open the TV card in ThinQ and use the controls shown there.
This setup depends on being able to get the TV online and respond to its PIN prompt. If the TV is unconfigured, offline, or you cannot navigate to the prompt, the app may not get you past that initial step; use an onboard control or compatible remote first.
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Try ThinQ to turn on a TV that is already registered
Mobile power control is not automatic on every LG TV. LG says ThinQ can turn TVs running webOS 3.5 and later on and off, while older webOS versions can only be turned off through the app. Powering on also depends on the phone platform and settings enabled on the TV. LG’s ThinQ setup guidance describes the webOS 6.0 setting TV ON WITH MOBILE and related Wi-Fi or Bluetooth options: Android can use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, while iPhone uses Wi-Fi.
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If the TV has never been configured for mobile control, do not assume the app will wake it. You may need to turn it on and adjust its settings using another control method first.
Use the TV’s onboard control if the app cannot pair
Some LG TVs have an onboard joystick or control button, but its location, menu behavior, and available functions depend on the exact model. The official instructions reviewed do not establish a button location or sequence that applies to every LG Smart TV.
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- Look for the control button only if you can safely reach the TV.
- Check the manual for the full model number to find the button location and supported actions.
- Use it as a possible way to get basic control, not as a guaranteed way to complete network setup or navigate every smart-TV menu.
Choose a compatible replacement remote
LG says a Magic Remote can be purchased separately, but warns that some TV models may not support all of its features. Compatibility depends on the TV model and region, so there is no single replacement model that can be recommended for every LG TV. Use LG’s webOS TV universal remote controller guidance and the manual for your TV to check compatibility before ordering.
A generic universal remote may handle basic infrared functions on some models, but compatibility and smart features are not guaranteed. Treat it as a model-specific possibility; do not assume it will provide Magic Remote pointer or voice functions.
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Troubleshoot common pairing problems
ThinQ cannot find the TV
- Make sure the TV is on.
- Confirm the phone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Turn off the phone’s mobile data during registration, as LG’s registration instructions direct.
The TV is offline or the PIN prompt is inaccessible
ThinQ registration requires the TV to be on the network and requires entry of a PIN displayed on the screen. Use onboard control or a compatible physical remote to navigate setup; check the manual or LG compatibility information for your model.
The app will not turn on the TV
Mobile power-on depends on the webOS version, phone platform, and TV settings. Check whether mobile wake is supported and enabled for your setup, or use another control method to turn the TV on and change its settings.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
