There is a way to use your Apple TV without a remote. Apple provides an alternative option called the Apple TV Remote app, which you can download on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. This app allows you to control your Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD directly from your mobile device, effectively replacing the physical remote.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up and use the Apple TV Remote app:
1. Make sure your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV.
2. Open the App Store on your iOS device and search for “Apple TV Remote.” Download and install the app.
3. Launch the Apple TV Remote app. It should automatically detect any available Apple TVs on your network. If not, make sure both devices are properly connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
4. Select your Apple TV from the list of available devices in the app.
5. On your Apple TV, a four-digit code will appear. Enter this code on your iOS device to pair it with your Apple TV.
6. Once paired, you can now use the Apple TV Remote app to control your Apple TV. The app provides a virtual touchpad for navigating the Apple TV interface, along with buttons for play/pause, menu, Siri, and volume control.
7. Additionally, the Apple TV Remote app also offers a keyboard feature, allowing you to enter text and search for content more easily. This can be particularly useful when signing in to apps or searching for specific movies or shows.
Using the Apple TV Remote app provides a convenient and intuitive way to control your Apple TV when you don’t have access to the physical remote. It offers the same functionality and features, ensuring a seamless user experience.
In my personal experience, I have found the Apple TV Remote app to be a reliable alternative to the physical remote. It provides a responsive and user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate through the Apple TV menu and control playback. The keyboard feature is particularly handy when entering text, as it saves time compared to using the on-screen keyboard with the physical remote.
The Apple TV Remote app is a great solution if you’ve lost your remote or simply prefer using your iOS device as a remote control. It’s worth noting that the app requires an iOS device running iOS 12.0 or later, and your Apple TV must be updated to tvOS 12.0 or later to ensure compatibility.
To sum up, using the Apple TV Remote app is a convenient and effective way to control your Apple TV without the physical remote. It offers all the necessary features and functionality, allowing you to enjoy your Apple TV experience seamlessly.