Universal TV Remote Control

One remote for many TV brands

Universal TV Remote Control turns a compatible Android phone or tablet into a TV remote. It is aimed at households that use different television brands, or anyone who wants a backup when the physical remote is missing. The app supports more than 20,000 TV models and lists major brands including Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, Panasonic, Toshiba, Vizio, Insignia and Roku TV.

How it works

Setup starts by searching for the television model and downloading the matching remote source pack. After that, the phone's controls can be used to operate the TV. The app requires an Android device with an infrared emitter, so compatibility depends on the hardware in your phone or tablet rather than the app alone.

Where it fits against a brand-specific remote

The broad model and brand coverage is its main advantage over an app made for one manufacturer. You can try the same remote app across TVs from different brands instead of keeping separate controller apps. The trade-off is that it is not an official remote from any of those manufacturers, and it will not suit devices without IR support. If your priority is one recognised brand's own controller, a dedicated alternative may be a better match.

Popularity and developer

Published by TV Master - Smart TV Remote Control in House & Home, the app has a 4.28 rating from more than 113,000 reviews and over 10 million installs. Those figures show wide use, but they do not remove the need to check whether your device has an IR blaster and whether your TV model appears during setup.