A universal remote app allows you to control multiple devices like TVs, sound systems, and smart home gadgets using your smartphone. Whether you lost your remote or want to simplify device management, these apps are a great solution. Here are the best universal remote apps available today.
Google Home
Best for: Smart home devices and Chromecast users
Google Home is a powerful app that works as a remote for Google Nest, Chromecast, and other smart home devices. It allows you to control TVs, lights, thermostats, speakers, and more using voice commands or a simple touch interface.
Key Features:
Controls multiple smart devices from one app
Works with Google Assistant for voice commands
Supports Chromecast and Android TVs
Easy setup and integration with Google ecosystem
- Compatibility:
Works with Android and iOS
Supports Google Nest, Chromecast, and smart home devices
AnyMote Universal Remote
Best for: Controlling both smart and infrared (IR) devices
AnyMote Universal Remote is a feature-rich app that works with both Wi-Fi-based smart devices and IR-based electronics like old TVs, ACs, and sound systems.
Key Features:
Supports over 900,000 devices
Customizable remote buttons and macros
Smart home integration with Amazon Alexa
Works with both IR blaster phones and Wi-Fi devices
Compatibility:
Works with Android and iOS
Supports TVs, streaming devices, ACs, DVD players, and more
SURE Universal Remote
Best for: Home entertainment systems
SURE Universal Remote is a versatile app that controls TVs, streaming devices, smart home gadgets, and media players. It supports Wi-Fi, IR, and Bluetooth connections.
Key Features:
Controls TVs, sound systems, and smart home devices
Works with both IR blaster and Wi-Fi-enabled devices
Supports Amazon Alexa for voice commands
Can stream media from your phone to a TV
Compatibility:
Works with Android and iOS
Supports Samsung, LG, Sony, Roku, Apple TV, and more
Yatse: Kodi Remote
Best for: Kodi media center users
If you use Kodi for streaming, Yatse is one of the best remote apps. It allows you to control Kodi, Plex, and Emby media servers with advanced features like voice commands and offline media syncing.
Key Features:
Full control over Kodi media centers
Supports Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin integration
Voice control and customizable widgets
Works even when offline
Compatibility:
Works with Android (no iOS version available)
Supports Kodi, Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin media servers
Mi Remote
Best for: Xiaomi and infrared (IR) device users
Mi Remote is designed for Xiaomi smartphones but works with other Android phones that have an IR blaster. It can control TVs, ACs, projectors, and other IR-based electronics.
Key Features:
Simple and easy-to-use interface
Supports multiple brands and models
Works without Wi-Fi using IR signals
Free to use with no ads
Compatibility:
Works with Android (not available for iOS)
Supports IR-controlled TVs, ACs, projectors, and more
Roku Remote App
Best for: Roku streaming device users
The Roku Official Remote App is perfect for controlling Roku streaming sticks, Roku TVs, and Roku soundbars. It provides quick access to channels and even lets you listen privately using your phone’s speakers or headphones.
Key Features:
Controls Roku TV, Stick, and Streaming Box
Supports voice commands
Private listening through headphones
Cast photos and videos to the TV
Compatibility:
Works with Android and iOS
Supports Roku streaming devices and Roku TVs
Amazon Fire TV Remote App
Best for: Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick users
This official remote app from Amazon allows you to control your Fire TV or Fire Stick from your phone. It includes a virtual keyboard for easy text input and supports voice commands via Alexa.
Key Features:
Controls Amazon Fire TV, Fire Stick, and Fire Cube
Virtual keyboard for quick text entry
Simple navigation with touch gestures
Works over Wi-Fi, so no line of sight is needed
Compatibility:
Works with Android and iOS
Supports Amazon Fire TV devices
Unified Remote
Best for: Controlling PCs and laptops
Unified Remote is a unique app that turns your smartphone into a remote for Windows, Mac, and Linux PCs. It can control media players, browsers, PowerPoint presentations, and even the mouse/keyboard.
Key Features:
Over 90 remote functions for PCs
Works via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Controls music, video, web browsing, and more
Encrypts remote connections for security
Compatibility:
Works with Android and iOS
Supports Windows, Mac, and Linux computers
Conclusion
Choosing the best universal remote app depends on your devices and needs:
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For smart home control: Google Home, AnyMote, or SURE Universal Remote
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For media streaming: Roku Remote, Fire TV Remote, or Yatse
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For IR-based devices: AnyMote, SURE, or Mi Remote
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For PC control: Unified Remote
With these apps, you can replace multiple remotes and simplify device management with just your smartphone.
