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One big advantage of Roku devices is that they all come with a handy Roku remote. However, we all know how easy they are to lose. Fortunately, you can also use your phone as a Roku remote.
This is possible through the official Roku Remote app available for iPhone, iPad, and Android. It allows you to mimic the behavior of the physical remote and do cool things like launch channels directly.
RELATED: How to pair your Roku remote
First, download the app and open it. You will be asked to agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy to “Continue”.
The next few screens will explain that you can save shows and movies to watch later, control Roku devices with the remote, and ask if you want to sign in. You’ll need to sign in to save things to Watch Later and watch the Roku channel in the app. You can choose to “Continue as guest”.
Once you’ve signed in with your Roku account or continued as a guest, you’ll be taken to the “Home” tab. The first thing you need to do is go to the “Devices” tab.
The app will search for Roku devices on your network. Tap the Roku device you’d like to control when it appears.
Once connected, you can jump directly to “Remote”. There is also a “Remote” tab at the bottom of the screen.
Depending on your device, you may need to grant the app permission to connect to nearby devices.
The remote interface has the same buttons as the physical remote and more. The microphone icon can be used to search by voice. The headphone icon will route the audio through your phone instead of the TV.
One of the most useful things about the remote app is the shortcuts to Roku channels. Instead of navigating the home screen, you can start a channel directly from the app with the “Recent Channels” button at the bottom.
If you choose to sign in with your Roku account, you can also launch movies and TV shows on your Roku device from the “Save List” tab.
This is how you can control your Roku with your phone! The Roku remote app is really nice, even better than the physical remote. It’s one of the best things about owning a Roku for your streaming needs.
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