Smart TVs have become the heart of modern home entertainment, and LG stands at the forefront with its innovative Smart TV lineup powered by webOS. While LG Smart TVs often come with the Magic Remote, users sometimes need an alternative, whether due to a lost remote, broken buttons, or simply preferring the convenience of using a smartphone. This is where LG TV remote apps come in.
Remote apps allow you to control your LG Smart TV from your Android or iOS device. From changing channels to adjusting the volume, browsing apps, or even typing with your phone’s keyboard, these apps provide a seamless experience. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best LG TV remote apps, how they work, their features, setup instructions, troubleshooting tips, and FAQs.
Why Use LG TV Remote Apps?
There are several reasons why people look for LG TV remote apps:
Lost or broken remotes: Physical remotes are easily misplaced or damaged.
Convenience: A smartphone is always nearby, so controlling the TV becomes easier.
Extra features: Remote apps often provide features that the Magic Remote doesn’t, such as screen mirroring, keyboard input, and voice commands.
Smart home integration: Apps like LG ThinQ integrate with other smart devices for unified control.
Read Also: Hisense TV Problems
How LG TV Remote Apps Work
LG TV remote apps usually connect to your television via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Wi-Fi control – Most apps, including the official LG ThinQ app, require your smartphone and LG TV to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Once paired, your phone acts as a remote control.
Bluetooth control – Some universal apps use Bluetooth for direct control if the TV supports it.
Infrared (IR) control – Phones with built-in IR blasters can control LG TVs without Wi-Fi.
The Best LG TV Remote Apps in 2025
Here are the most reliable and popular apps to control your LG Smart TV:
1. LG ThinQ (Official App)
The LG ThinQ app is the official remote app developed by LG Electronics. Available on both Android and iOS, it not only controls your Smart TV but also integrates with other LG appliances.
Key Features:
Full remote control for LG TVs
On-screen keyboard for easy typing
Voice control and Google Assistant/Alexa integration
Smart home device management
Screen mirroring (cast photos, videos, and music from your phone)
Why Choose LG ThinQ?
If you want reliability and advanced features, ThinQ is the best option. Being the official app, it is regularly updated and optimized for LG TVs.
2. LG TV Plus
LG TV Plus was the earlier official app before LG ThinQ became the standard. Some users with older LG TVs (webOS 3.0 or lower) may still need this app.
Key Features:
Remote control functions
Content casting
Basic TV navigation
Works with older LG Smart TVs
Why Choose LG TV Plus?
Perfect for users with slightly older LG TV models who cannot use LG ThinQ.
3. AnyMote Universal Remote
AnyMote is a universal remote app that supports many devices, including LG TVs.
Key Features:
Works with Wi-Fi and IR blasters
Customizable buttons and layouts
Supports multiple devices (TV, AC, projectors, etc.)
Voice commands
Why Choose AnyMote?
Great for users who want one app to control multiple devices, not just their LG Smart TV.
4. Peel Smart Remote
The Peel Smart Remote app combines remote control functionality with a personalized TV guide.
Key Features:
IR + Wi-Fi control
TV show recommendations
Smart remote features
Cross-device compatibility
Why Choose Peel Smart Remote?
If you want an all-in-one app that doubles as a content discovery tool, Peel is a solid choice.
5. Unified Remote
Although primarily designed for PC control, Unified Remote can also manage Smart TVs with proper configuration.
Key Features:
Customizable remote interface
Works with Wi-Fi
Supports multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux, Smart TVs)
Why Choose Unified Remote?
Best for tech enthusiasts who want advanced customization and multi-device support.
6. Sure Universal Remote
Sure Universal Remote is another powerful app that works with many devices.
Key Features:
IR + Wi-Fi support
Smart home integration
Voice control
Supports LG Smart TVs and other brands
Why Choose Sure Universal?
Good option if you own multiple devices from different brands and want one app for everything.
7. CetusPlay Remote
CetusPlay is designed for Android TV boxes but also supports LG Smart TVs with some limitations.
Key Features:
Multi-device support
App launcher and file transfer
Remote control functions
Casting options
Why Choose CetusPlay?
Great for users who use both Smart TVs and streaming devices.
8. Rokie Remote (Third-Party for LG TVs)
Though originally for Roku, Rokie Remote has third-party versions that support LG TVs.
Key Features:
Simple interface
Wi-Fi control
Basic TV navigation
Why Choose Rokie Remote?
Lightweight, simple app for users who want minimal remote control functions.
9. Smartify LG TV Remote
Smartify is specifically designed for LG Smart TVs.
Key Features:
Full remote functionality
Keyboard and touchpad support
Quick pairing with LG TVs
Works on iOS and Android
Why Choose Smartify?
Dedicated exclusively to LG Smart TVs, making it reliable and straightforward.
10. Remote for LG TV by Quantic Apps
This third-party app is designed to provide a Magic Remote-like experience.
Key Features:
Wi-Fi control
Gesture controls
On-screen keyboard
Works across multiple LG Smart TV generations
Why Choose This App?
Good for users looking for a simple LG-focused app without unnecessary features.
Read Also: Hallmark on Roku
How to Set Up LG TV Remote Apps
Here’s a step-by-step guide to connecting your app with your LG Smart TV:
Download the app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Connect both your TV and smartphone to the same Wi-Fi network.
Launch the app and allow necessary permissions.
Select your LG Smart TV from the device list.
Confirm pairing on your TV (a code may appear to verify).
Start using your phone as a remote!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, users face problems when trying to use remote apps. Here are some solutions:
TV not found in the app – Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
App not responding – Restart your TV and smartphone, then try again.
IR control not working – Check if your phone has an IR blaster.
App crashes frequently – Update the app to the latest version or reinstall.
Laggy performance – Reduce interference on your Wi-Fi network.
LG TV Remote Apps FAQs
Q1: Can I use my phone as a remote for my LG Smart TV?
A1: Yes, you can use your smartphone as a remote by downloading LG ThinQ or other third-party remote apps. Just ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Q2: Which is the best official LG TV remote app?
A2: The LG ThinQ app is the official and most reliable remote app, offering full functionality, voice commands, and smart home integration.
Q3: Do LG TV remote apps work without Wi-Fi?
A3: Most apps require Wi-Fi, but if your phone has an IR blaster, you can control your LG TV without Wi-Fi using universal remote apps.
Q4: Can I replace my LG Magic Remote with a phone app?
A4: Yes, you can. Apps like LG ThinQ and Smartify replicate most features of the Magic Remote, including navigation, typing, and voice input.
Q5: Do remote apps support all LG TV models?
A5: Not all. Older LG Smart TVs may require the LG TV Plus app instead of LG ThinQ. Always check app compatibility with your TV model.
Q6: Can I use voice commands with LG TV remote apps?
A6: Yes, the LG ThinQ app and other apps with AI integration allow you to control your TV using Google Assistant, Alexa, or built-in voice commands.
Q7: Is the LG ThinQ app free?
A7: Yes, the LG ThinQ app is completely free to download and use on both Android and iOS devices.
Q8: What should I do if my LG remote app doesn’t connect?
A8: Check your Wi-Fi connection, restart both the TV and phone, and ensure the TV’s network settings allow device connections.
Q9: Can I control other devices with LG TV remote apps?
A9: Yes, universal apps like AnyMote and Sure Universal allow you to control multiple devices such as ACs, projectors, and other smart TVs.
Q10: Is it safe to use third-party LG remote apps?
A10: Yes, most are safe when downloaded from official app stores. However, official apps like LG ThinQ are more secure and reliable.
Conclusion
LG TV remote apps are a game-changer for anyone who wants flexibility and convenience in controlling their Smart TV. Whether you use the official LG ThinQ app for seamless integration or third-party alternatives like Smartify and AnyMote, these apps ensure that losing or damaging your remote is no longer a problem. They also enhance the experience with features like voice commands, keyboard input, and smart home connectivity.
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