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How to Use Your iPhone as an Apple TV Remote

#apple tv
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Last updated on June 24, 2026

Misplaced your Apple TV remote? No problem! Your iPhone can work as a fully functional Apple TV remote in just a few steps.

Before You Start

Make sure:

  • Your iPhone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV.
  • Your Apple TV is powered on.
  • Your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS (recommended).

Step 1: Open Control Center

On iPhones with Face ID

Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen.

On iPhones with a Home Button

Swipe up from the bottom of the screen.

Step 2: Open the Apple TV Remote

Look for the Apple TV Remote icon (it looks like a small remote control).

If you don't see it:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Control Center
  3. Scroll down to Apple TV Remote
  4. Tap the green + button to add it

Then return to Control Center and tap the remote icon.

Step 3: Select Your Apple TV

  1. Tap the Apple TV Remote icon.
  2. Choose your Apple TV from the list of available devices.
  3. If prompted, enter the four-digit code displayed on your TV screen.

Once connected, your iPhone will function just like an Apple TV remote.

What You Can Do

Using the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone, you can:

  • Navigate menus
  • Open apps
  • Play and pause content
  • Fast-forward and rewind
  • Adjust volume (on supported TVs and receivers)
  • Use Siri (by pressing and holding the Siri button)
  • Enter usernames and passwords more easily using your iPhone keyboard

Using Your iPhone Keyboard for Logins

One of the biggest advantages of the iPhone remote is easier text entry.

When a text field appears on the Apple TV:

  1. A notification should appear automatically on your iPhone.
  2. Tap the notification.
  3. Type using your iPhone keyboard.
  4. The text will instantly appear on the Apple TV.

Troubleshooting

My Apple TV Doesn't Appear

Try the following:

  • Confirm both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Restart your iPhone.
  • Restart your Apple TV.
  • Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone.

The Remote Won't Connect

  1. Restart your Apple TV:
    • Unplug the Apple TV power cord.
    • Wait 10 seconds.
    • Plug it back in.
  2. Restart your iPhone.
  3. Try connecting again through Control Center.

Need Additional Help?

If you're still having trouble connecting your iPhone to your Apple TV, contact us at support@marshmallowstreaming.com and we'll be happy to assist you.