Losing your TV remote is awful and it makes it so difficult to sit back and enjoy quality TV time. People have become accustomed to being able to switch between multiple channels or devices with ease. Losing this ability feels like torture. There are a few ways to fix this problem. You can purchase a universal remote and many smartphones can be used as a TV remote with the right app. This will teach you how to program your universal remote, use your phone as a remote and where to find codes for your specific TV. It will only take a few minutes until you're back to relaxing and enjoying your TV time.
Where to find remote codes for your TV. There are several ways to find the remote code for your TV. You must first know the brand of your TV as this will tell which code to look for. Each universal remote manufacturer uses different codes, so the code for one remote may not work on another. If you just purchased the remote, then there should be an insert or manual with a list of remote codes. Simply match the code to your TV brand. If you cannot locate this information, then visit the manufacturer's website and you should be able to find a digital version of the manual. Some manufacturers may even have a page dedicated to showing the codes for all their universal remotes.
Using the code search function. Most universal remotes have a discover mode and report mode. Both can be used to help pair the universal remote with your TV. While this largely depends on the universal remote itself, both features are usually accessed by entering 990 or 991 respectively. Turn the TV on, press the TV button on the remote for five second and wait for it to blink. You will then enter the code. If you use 990, then press the "Channel Up" button until your TV turns off. This means you found the right code. If you entered 991, then pay attention to the LED on the remote as it will flash in a certain pattern. For example, it might flash three times, four times and then one time with a pause between each one. This would mean your TV code is 341.
Programming a universal remote. Every universal remote manufacturer is different and your instructions might differ. Be sure to read the manual you receive with the remote for the most accurate instructions. In general, most universal remotes have either a device or setup button. Turn on your TV and push either the "TV" or "Setup" button and hold for five seconds until the remote blinks. Enter the TV code and then attempt to use the remote to change channels, volume, turn the TV on and off and so on. Some remotes are different and you may need to consult the manual for more information. If you don't have the manual, then check the manufacturer's website because they should have a digital manual available.
Apps for controlling your TV with your phone. Most modern smartphones have an IR blaster that allows them to emit IR beams to control TVs and other similar devices. This includes most modern Android and Apple devices. Now all you need is the right app. There are many apps and while they might have different features to control other devices in your home, there is generally little variation when it comes to specifically controlling your TV. Some of the common apps include: SURE Universal, Anymote, Google Home, Unified Remote and IR Universal TV Remote. If you have a smart TV with Roku or a Roku device attached to your standard TV, then the Roku app is another good choice.