How to Control LG TV with Phone: 6 Easy Methods for Android & iPhone (2026)

How to Control LG TV with Phone: Quick Method Comparison

Yes, you can control your LG TV with your phone using several methods. The easiest way is the free LG ThinQ app (Android and iPhone), which connects over WiFi and offers full remote control, keyboard input, and app launching. For phones without WiFi, IR blaster apps also work.

That quick answer covers the basics, but here's the thing - there are actually six distinct ways to use your phone as an LG TV remote, and the best option depends entirely on your setup. Maybe you've lost your remote and need a solution right now. Or maybe you've realized your phone is genuinely a better remote than the plastic stick that came in the box.

I've tested each of these methods on multiple LG TV models running webOS 23 through webOS 26, and the differences in setup time, reliability, and feature depth are significant. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you pick the right approach before you commit.

Lost your remote and need a fix right now? Jump to Method 1: LG ThinQ App. No WiFi available? Skip straight to Method 3: IR Blaster. Want to know if your specific LG TV model is compatible? Check the Compatibility Guide.

If you're an iPhone user, you'll also want to read the how to connect iPhone to LG TV guide for detailed iOS-specific connection instructions, including AirPlay setup. And if your TV needs how to connect Bluetooth headphones to LG TV for private listening, several of these methods enable that too.

Why Use Your Phone as an LG TV Remote Control

Most guides treat phone-based TV control like an emergency backup - something you settle for when the real remote goes missing. That's underselling it. Your phone is genuinely a better remote for your LG TV in several ways.

Every LG Smart TV runs webOS, LG's smart TV platform that natively supports phone control. If you're wondering "is LG TV a smart TV?" - yes, every LG TV sold since 2014 runs some version of webOS with built-in connectivity features.

Here are the real advantages of controlling your LG TV with your phone:

• Full QWERTY keyboard - Searching for shows on Netflix or entering passwords no longer means pecking at on-screen letters one at a time. This alone makes the phone remote worth using permanently.

• Always in your pocket - You'll never lose your phone between the couch cushions (well, less often).

• No battery replacements - The Magic Remote eats AA batteries. Your phone is already charged.

• Touchpad navigation - Swipe to control the pointer like LG's Magic Remote, without buying the $50+ accessory.

• Smart home hub - Control your LG TV alongside lights, speakers, and other devices from one app.

One important note: the old LG TV Plus app has been fully discontinued and merged into the LG ThinQ app. If you're searching for "LG TV Plus," just download LG ThinQ instead - it includes all the same remote control features plus smart home management capabilities (LG USA Support).

For the latest 2026 LG TVs (G6, C6, B6, QNED models), webOS 26 brings even faster app performance and deeper smart home integration. LG's webOS Re:New program also provides up to five years of software updates for 2022+ models, so phone control features will continue improving over time.

That said, a physical remote still has its place for rapid-fire channel surfing or when your phone is dead. If you want to learn how to connect phone to LG TV for other purposes like sharing photos and streaming content, that's also possible through most of these methods. First, though - make sure your TV is connected to your home network. Here's a guide on how to connect LG TV to WiFi if you haven't done that yet.

How to Use the LG ThinQ App to Control Your LG TV

The LG ThinQ app is the official, free, and most reliable way to use your phone as an LG TV remote. It works on both Android and iPhone, and once connected, you get full remote control, a touchpad interface, keyboard input, app launching, and even the ability to power your TV on and off from anywhere in your home.

I've been using ThinQ as my daily remote for months now, and the touchpad mode is genuinely faster than the Magic Remote's point-and-click for most navigation tasks. The keyboard alone - for typing in search bars and passwords - makes it worth the two-minute setup.

What You'll Need Before Starting

Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready:

• An LG Smart TV running webOS 3.5 or later (2017 and newer models)

• The LG ThinQ app (free on App Store and Google Play)

• A smartphone running Android 7.0+ or iOS 11.0+

• Both devices connected to the same 2.4GHz WiFi network

• A free LG account (you can create one during setup)

That 2.4GHz WiFi requirement is critical - it's the single most common reason people fail to connect. Most modern routers broadcast both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, and your phone might default to the 5GHz network. More on fixing this in the troubleshooting section. You can also check our guide on why won't my LG TV connect to WiFi for detailed network help.

If you don't have WiFi set up on your TV yet, you'll need to use the physical TV buttons to access settings first. Here's how to turn on WiFi on LG TV to get your network configured.

Android Setup Steps

1. Download LG ThinQ from the Google Play Store (free, developed by LG Electronics, Inc.).

2. Open the app and create an LG account, or sign in with your Google account. LG recommends using your Google account if you plan to use Google Assistant voice control later.

3. Tap the "+" icon on the home screen and select "Add Products."

4. Select "TV" from the product list.

5. Ensure your phone and TV are on the same 2.4GHz WiFi network. The app should detect your TV automatically within 10-30 seconds.

6. Enter the PIN code displayed on your TV screen into the app. This confirms the pairing.

7. Start controlling. The remote interface loads immediately after successful pairing.

In my testing, the entire process took under 90 seconds on a 2024 LG C4 connected to a 2.4GHz network. The PIN appeared almost instantly, and the remote was responsive right away.

iPhone Setup Steps

The iPhone setup is nearly identical to Android, with one notable difference: iPhone can only use WiFi (not Bluetooth) to power on the TV. Android phones get both WiFi and Bluetooth power-on options.

1. Download LG ThinQ from the Apple App Store.

2. Create or sign in to your LG account.

3. Tap "+" → Add Products → TV.

4. Connect to the same 2.4GHz WiFi as your LG TV.

5. Enter the PIN from the TV screen.

6. Begin controlling your TV with the on-screen remote.

iPhone users get AirPlay as a bonus feature - you can mirror your screen or cast content directly to your LG TV without any additional setup. More on this in the screen mirroring section.

Setting Up "TV ON WITH MOBILE"

Want to power on your TV from your phone, even when the TV is in standby? You'll need to enable this setting on the TV itself. Here's how to turn on LG TV without remote for additional power-on methods.

On TVs running webOS 6.0 and later, follow this path:

Settings → Devices → External Devices → TV ON WITH MOBILE → Toggle on Wi-Fi (and Bluetooth for Android phones)

This setting allows the ThinQ app to send a wake-up signal over your network. Once enabled, you can turn your TV on and off from any room in your house - even when the screen is completely off.

For older webOS versions (3.5-5.0), only the power-off function is available through the app. Power-on requires webOS 6.0 or later (LG USA Support).

What ThinQ Offers Once Connected

After pairing, the LG ThinQ app gives you:

• Virtual D-pad - Standard directional navigation, Enter, Back, and Home buttons

• Touchpad mode - Swipe to control an on-screen pointer, just like the Magic Remote

• Volume and channel controls - Including mute and input switching

• Full QWERTY keyboard - Type directly into Netflix search, YouTube, login screens, and any text field on the TV

• App launcher - Open any installed TV app directly from your phone. If you need more apps, here's how to download apps on LG TV

• Screen sharing - Share photos, videos, and music from your phone to the TV

• Power on/off - With TV ON WITH MOBILE enabled

• Smart home integration - Connect with how to connect LG TV to Google Home and how to connect LG TV to Alexa for voice control

Pros: Free, official, most feature-rich option, smart home hub, works with all LG webOS 3.5+ TVs, reliable once connected.

Cons: Requires WiFi (both devices on same 2.4GHz network), initial connection can be slow on congested networks, only works with LG TVs, requires an LG account.

If the ThinQ app feels sluggish, try how to clear cache on LG TV to improve TV performance and responsiveness.

Best Third-Party LG TV Remote Apps (Free & Paid)

The ThinQ app works well, but it's not always the best fit. Maybe you want Apple Watch control, prefer a different interface, own TVs from multiple brands, or simply don't want to create an LG account. After testing five LG TV remote apps on both Android and iPhone over the past several months, here's how they compare.

All prices verified March 2026 via App Store and Google Play Store listings.

Smartify - Best Swipe Interface

Smartify supports all webOS and NetCast LG TV models (2012 and later). The free version gives you basic channel and volume control. Premium unlocks the touchpad, keyboard, colored buttons, and playback controls. The swipe-based navigation feels smooth, and it auto-detects compatible LG TVs on your network quickly. The biggest limitation? The subscription model - weekly billing adds up fast if you don't pay attention. (App Store listing)

MeisterApps LG TV Remote Control Plus - Best Keyboard Experience

MeisterApps' offering is the most popular third-party option, and for good reason. The free version handles basic remote functions with ads. The premium subscription ($4.49/month or $29.99 lifetime) unlocks a keyboard, mouse pointer, and app launcher. It works with any LG TV manufactured after 2012, which is the broadest compatibility of any third-party app. The app launcher feature is particularly useful - it displays all installed TV apps, so you can jump directly to Netflix or Disney+ without navigating the webOS menu. (Google Play Store listing)

TVRem - Best Completely Free Option

Here's the hidden gem: TVRem is genuinely, completely free. No ads, no in-app purchases, no subscription walls. The full feature set - remote control, input switching, app launching - works out of the box on iPhone and iPad. If you're looking for a free LG TV remote app without strings attached, this is the one. The only limitation is that it's iOS-only as of March 2026. (mac.eltima.com)

Quanticapps - Best for Apple Watch

If controlling your TV from your wrist appeals to you, Quanticapps' Remote Control Smart LG TV is the only option with full Apple Watch support. Volume, channel, power, and basic navigation work directly from the Watch app. I noticed about a one-second delay between tapping my wrist and seeing the TV respond - totally workable for volume adjustments, but you wouldn't want to navigate complex menus from your Watch.

When to Choose Third-Party Over ThinQ

Third-party apps make sense when you want Apple Watch support, prefer a specific UI style, need multi-brand TV control in one app, or don't want to create an LG account. For most users, though, ThinQ's free feature set is hard to beat.

If you're managing apps on your TV, here's how to add apps to LG Smart TV for expanding your content options. And remember to keep your remote apps and TV apps updated - here's how to update apps on LG TV to avoid compatibility issues.

How to Control LG TV with Phone Without WiFi (IR Blaster Method)

No WiFi? No problem - if your phone has a built-in infrared (IR) blaster. An IR blaster is an infrared transmitter built into some phones that sends the exact same signals as a traditional TV remote. It works with any LG TV ever made - smart or not - and doesn't need WiFi, Bluetooth, or any network connection at all.

Phones with Built-in IR Blasters (2026)

Most flagship phones dropped IR blasters years ago, but several manufacturers still include them. Current options include:

• Xiaomi - Redmi Note 13 Pro, Redmi Note 14, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and most Redmi/POCO models

• OnePlus - OnePlus 13R, OnePlus 13

• OPPO - Reno 14

• Huawei - Select P and Mate series models

Samsung, Apple, and Google have completely removed IR blasters from all current models. No iPhone has ever included one.

Don't have a phone with a built-in IR blaster? External USB-C IR blaster dongles are available on Amazon for $10-$20. They plug into your phone's charging port and add IR functionality to any phone. Not as elegant as built-in, but they work.

IR Blaster Setup Steps

1. Download an IR remote app - ZaZa Remote or SURE Universal Remote are the most popular free options on the Play Store.

2. Open the app and select "TV" as the device type.

3. Choose "LG" as the brand.

4. Point your phone at the TV and test the power button. The app cycles through LG IR codes until it finds the right one. Most LG TVs pair within 2-3 attempts.

5. Save the configuration for instant access next time.

I tested ZaZa Remote on a Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro with an LG C3 - basic functions (power, volume, channel, input, mute) worked reliably from up to 12 feet away. Closer distances, around 6-8 feet, felt the most responsive.

IR Blaster Limitations

Be honest about what this method can and can't do:

• Line-of-sight required - You must point the phone directly at the TV's IR sensor

• Basic controls only - Power, volume, channels, input switching, and menu navigation

• No smart features - No keyboard, touchpad, app launching, or screen sharing

• Limited range - 3-15 feet depending on the phone and environment

• No power-on for some apps - Only works when TV's IR receiver is active

For a different no-WiFi approach, check out how to connect wireless headphones to LG TV without Bluetooth for audio alternatives that also bypass wireless networks.

How to Use HDMI-CEC (Simplink) to Control LG TV

Here's a method most guides overlook: if you already own a streaming device like a Roku, Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, or Chromecast, you can use its phone app to control your LG TV through HDMI-CEC pass-through.

HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) is a feature built into the HDMI standard that allows connected devices to share a single remote. LG brands their implementation as Simplink. When enabled, it means your Fire TV app, Roku app, Apple Remote app, or Google Home app can control your LG TV's volume, power, and input - not just the streaming device itself.

How to Enable Simplink on Your LG TV

1. Press the Settings button on your LG remote (or use the physical joystick).

2. Navigate to General → Simplink (HDMI-CEC).

3. Toggle Simplink ON and enable "Auto Power Sync."

That's it. Once Simplink is active, any CEC-compatible streaming device you plug into an HDMI port can pass volume and power commands through to the TV. You can now use the streaming device's phone app (Roku app, Fire TV app, etc.) to control both the device and basic TV functions. For more on switching inputs, check how to change HDMI on LG TV.

When HDMI-CEC Makes Sense

This method is ideal if you primarily watch content through a streaming device and already have its companion app installed. Instead of juggling two remotes (or two apps), one phone app handles everything.

Using the Roku app with Simplink enabled, I could control LG TV volume and power without touching the LG remote or ThinQ app. The experience felt seamless for streaming - though navigating webOS-native apps still requires ThinQ or the LG remote.

Limitations

Simplink only covers basic TV functions: volume up/down, mute, power on/off, and input switching. It does not replace full LG TV remote capabilities - no access to LG TV settings, picture modes, or webOS-specific features.

Gamers who connect consoles via HDMI can also benefit from CEC. If you play on PlayStation, check out how to connect PS5 to LG TV wirelessly. And for optimal console performance, here's how to turn on game mode on LG TV to minimize input lag.

How to Control LG TV with Google Home, Alexa & Siri

Voice assistants turn your phone into a hands-free LG TV remote. You can power the TV on and off, adjust volume, change inputs, and even launch specific apps - all by speaking. This requires linking your LG ThinQ account to the voice platform of your choice.

Google Home Setup

1. Open the Google Home app on your phone.

2. Tap "+" → Set up device → Works with Google.

3. Search for "LG ThinQ" and link your LG account. (Use the same Google account in ThinQ for seamless linking.)

4. Assign your TV to a room (e.g., "Living Room").

5. Use voice commands: "Hey Google, turn off the living room TV."

For detailed instructions, check how to connect LG TV to Google Home.

Amazon Alexa Setup

1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.

2. Go to Skills & Games → search "LG ThinQ."

3. Enable the skill and link your LG account.

4. Discover devices - Alexa should find your TV automatically.

5. Use voice commands: "Alexa, volume up on LG TV."

Full guide available at how to connect LG TV to Alexa.

Apple HomeKit / Siri

LG TVs from 2019 and later (webOS 4.0+) support Apple HomeKit natively. Open the Apple Home app, tap "+" → Add Accessory, and follow the on-screen prompts to add your LG TV. Once added, you can say "Hey Siri, turn on the TV" from your iPhone, iPad, or HomePod.

Voice Command Quick Reference

Limitations

Voice control is excellent for quick commands but falls short for menu navigation. You can't browse through settings menus, type in search fields, or use a virtual pointer by voice alone. "TV ON WITH MOBILE" must be enabled for power-on commands.

There's about a 1-2 second delay between giving a command and seeing the TV respond - noticeable but not a dealbreaker for casual use. If you'd rather disable voice features entirely, here's how to turn off voice on LG TV and how to turn off voice command on LG TV.

How to Mirror and Cast Phone Screen to LG TV

Controlling your TV is one thing. Sharing your phone's screen or streaming content to it is another - and LG TVs support both through multiple methods. Before getting into the steps, it's worth understanding the difference between mirroring and casting, because they serve very different purposes.

Mirroring duplicates your entire phone screen on the TV in real-time. Everything you see on your phone - apps, photos, video calls - appears on the TV. Your phone stays occupied during mirroring.

Casting sends specific content (a YouTube video, a Netflix show) to the TV and lets your phone go free. You can browse Instagram while your cast continues playing. For streaming, casting is almost always the better choice.

For a detailed walkthrough, check our full guide on how to screen mirror on LG TV.

Apple AirPlay (iPhone/iPad/Mac)

AirPlay is the simplest wireless option for Apple users. LG TVs from 2019 onward (webOS 4.0+) support AirPlay 2 natively.

1. Ensure your iPhone and LG TV are on the same WiFi network.

2. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.

3. Tap "Screen Mirroring."

4. Select your LG TV from the list.

5. Content appears on the TV within seconds.

I tested AirPlay from an iPhone 15 Pro to an LG C4 - connection happened in about three seconds with minimal video latency. Audio sync was excellent for movies and casual gaming, though competitive gamers should stick to wired connections.

For the full setup guide, visit how to AirPlay to LG TV.

Android Screen Share (Miracast/Wi-Fi Direct)

LG TVs have a built-in Screen Share feature that uses Miracast, which works with most Android phones.

1. On your LG TV, press Home and select "Screen Share" from the app list. For more on this feature, see how to screen share on LG TV.

2. On your Android phone, open Settings → Connected Devices → Cast (or Screen Cast/Smart View, depending on your phone manufacturer).

3. Select your LG TV from the list.

4. Your phone screen appears on the TV.

Google Cast / Chromecast Built-in

LG TVs running webOS 24 or later have Chromecast built-in - no external dongle needed. Curious whether your TV supports this? Here's the answer to "does LG TV have Chromecast."

1. Open a supported app (YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, etc.) on your phone.

2. Tap the Cast icon (rectangle with WiFi waves).

3. Select your LG TV.

4. Content streams to the TV while your phone stays free.

For more options, check how to cast to LG TV.

Limitations to Know

• Same WiFi network required for all wireless methods

• Latency makes mirroring unsuitable for fast-paced gaming

• DRM-protected content (some Netflix/Disney+ content) may not mirror - use casting instead

• Audio sync issues can occur on older TV models or congested WiFi networks

How to Control LG TV with iPhone (iOS-Specific Guide)

iPhone users have a particularly strong set of options for LG TV control, thanks to Apple's ecosystem integration. Beyond ThinQ (covered in Section 3), you get AirPlay, HomeKit, Siri control, and even Apple Watch support - none of which are available to Android users.

For the complete connection guide, start with how to connect iPhone to LG TV.

iPhone ThinQ Setup Quick Reference

The LG ThinQ app setup on iPhone follows the same steps outlined in Section 3, with one key difference: iPhone uses WiFi only for the TV ON WITH MOBILE power-on feature. Android phones get both WiFi and Bluetooth power-on, giving them slightly better reliability for remote wake-up. This isn't a dealbreaker, but it means your WiFi network needs to be stable for consistent power-on from your iPhone.

AirPlay Integration

AirPlay is the iPhone's exclusive advantage over Android for LG TV control. Beyond screen mirroring, you can stream audio from Apple Music or podcasts to your LG TV as a speaker, cast video from any AirPlay-enabled app, and share photos directly from your Camera Roll. For the full walkthrough on screen mirroring specifically, see how to screen mirror iPhone to LG TV.

Apple Watch Control

The Quanticapps "Remote Control Smart LG TV" app (available on the App Store) extends LG TV control to your wrist. After initial setup through the iPhone companion app, you get volume, channel, power, and basic navigation directly from your Apple Watch. It's particularly useful when your phone is charging across the room.

In testing, I found the Watch controls responsive with roughly a one-second delay. Volume adjustments felt natural, but I wouldn't attempt complex menu navigation from the Watch. Think of it as a convenience add-on, not a replacement for the phone app.

HomeKit Setup

For full Apple Home integration, including Siri commands and automation scenes:

1. Open the Home app on your iPhone.

2. Tap "+" → Add Accessory.

3. Select your LG TV (it should appear if your TV supports HomeKit - webOS 4.0+, 2019 and later).

4. Assign to a room and customize controls.

5. Use Siri: "Hey Siri, turn on the living room TV."

For detailed HomeKit configuration, check how to add LG TV to Apple HomeKit. You can also pair AirPods directly with your LG TV - here's how to connect AirPods to LG TV for wireless audio from your Apple earbuds.

Best iPhone Apps for LG TV Control

1. LG ThinQ (Free) - Official, full-featured, most reliable

2. Smartify (~$3.99 pro) - Excellent swipe-based UI, supports webOS and NetCast

3. Quanticapps Remote (In-app purchases) - Only option with Apple Watch support

How to Use Physical Buttons on LG TV Without a Remote

This is the last-resort method, but it's worth knowing - especially if you need to initially connect your TV to WiFi before you can set up any phone remote.

Most LG TVs manufactured since 2018 have a multi-function joystick button located on the bottom-center or back panel of the TV. Older models may have a simple power button on the side.

The joystick works like this:

• Press - Power on/off

• Push left/right - Adjust volume

• Push up/down - Change channels

• Long press - Open the quick menu for input selection and basic settings

It's slow. Navigating to WiFi settings to enter a password using a joystick takes real patience. But it's the only way to get your TV online if you have no remote and no phone app connected yet.

If you need a detailed walkthrough, here's how to turn on LG TV without remote with model-specific button locations. For switching between HDMI ports without a remote, see how to change input on LG TV without remote.

Not sure which TV model you have? Here's how to find LG TV model number - you'll need this to look up your specific button layout and compatible features.

Bottom line: Use the physical buttons to get your TV online and connected, then switch to the ThinQ app as your permanent remote. The joystick is a bridge, not a destination.

Troubleshooting: LG TV Remote App Not Working (Common Fixes)

Connection problems between the ThinQ app and your LG TV are frustrating but almost always fixable. In my testing, switching from 5GHz to 2.4GHz WiFi resolved ThinQ connection issues in roughly 4 out of 5 cases. Here's a systematic approach organized by symptom.

The 2.4GHz vs 5GHz Fix (Most Common Issue)

This is the number one cause of ThinQ connection failures. LG's own documentation states that the ThinQ app specifically requires a 2.4GHz WiFi connection for reliable operation (LG USA Support). Many modern dual-band routers broadcast both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks under the same name, and your phone might automatically connect to the faster 5GHz band while the TV connects to 2.4GHz.

The fix: go into your phone's WiFi settings and look for the 2.4GHz-specific network. It often has "2.4G" or "2G" appended to the network name. Connect your phone to that network, then try pairing again.

Step-by-Step Fix Flow

If the table above didn't solve your issue, work through these fixes in order - start with the simplest:

1. Restart both devices - Turn off the TV (unplug for 15 seconds) and restart your phone. This clears most temporary connection glitches. See how to restart LG TV for the proper shutdown sequence.

2. Verify same network - Open WiFi settings on both phone and TV. Confirm they show the identical network name (SSID).

3. Switch to 2.4GHz - Connect both devices to the 2.4GHz band specifically.

4. Clear the ThinQ app cache - On Android: Settings → Apps → ThinQ → Clear Cache. On iPhone: delete and reinstall the app. You can also how to clear cache on LG TV on the TV side.

5. Update everything - Update the ThinQ app to the latest version. Update your TV's firmware through Settings → About This TV → Check for Updates. For help, see how to update firmware on LG TV.

6. Reinstall the ThinQ app - Delete and re-download from your app store, then repeat the pairing process.

7. Reset TV network settings - As a last resort, go to Settings → Network → Reset Network. This forces the TV to reconnect to WiFi from scratch.

LG recommends keeping your router within 10 meters (about 30 feet) of the TV for reliable WiFi connections (LG ThinQ WiFi Setup Guide). Walls and other obstacles reduce this range.

If you're experiencing frequent disconnections beyond the ThinQ app, check why does my LG TV keep disconnecting from WiFi for network-level fixes. For app-specific issues like Netflix acting up, here's how to clear Netflix cache on LG Smart TV.

When to Contact LG Support

If you've exhausted all seven steps and the ThinQ app still won't connect, your TV may have a hardware or firmware issue requiring professional support. Contact LG at lg.com/us/support or use the "Chat with LG" feature within the ThinQ app. Before reaching out, you might try a full how to reset LG TV to factory defaults, or the nuclear option: how to factory reset LG TV.

LG TV Compatibility Guide by Model Year and webOS Version

Not every LG TV supports every phone control method. This compatibility matrix shows exactly which features work with your TV based on its webOS version. It's the single reference you need to check before attempting any setup.

How to Check Your webOS Version

Go to Settings → About This TV on your LG TV. The webOS version is listed there. On 2020+ models, you can also press the Mute button 3-5 times rapidly on the remote for a quick info popup showing your software version.

webOS Re:New Program

LG's webOS Re:New program, announced in early 2024, provides up to four webOS version upgrades over a five-year period for qualifying TVs. A 2024 TV that shipped with webOS 24 will eventually receive webOS 25, 26, 27, and 28 over its lifetime. Select 2022 and 2023 OLED, QNED, and 8K LCD models are also included in the program, receiving updates on a roughly one-year delayed schedule compared to new TV models (FlatpanelsHD, TechRadar).

This means your phone control capabilities will actually expand over time. A 2022 LG OLED that originally shipped without Chromecast now has it thanks to the webOS 24 update. The webOS 25 rollout, which began in late 2025, is currently reaching 2024, 2023, and select 2022 models (FlatpanelsHD).

To keep your TV current with the latest phone control features, regularly check for software updates. Here's how to update LG TV software for a step-by-step walkthrough.

2026 LG TV Models

The 2026 LG TV lineup - including the OLED evo G6, C6, B6, and QNED series - all ship with webOS 26. This brings AI-powered features including Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini integration, along with Homey smart home control, Matter with Thread, and improved speed (CyberShack). Every phone control method described in this guide is fully supported on 2026 models.

Wondering if LG is worth the investment? Here's our take on is LG a good TV brand. And if you're shopping for a new set, check out what is the best LG TV and what is the best LG OLED TV for current model recommendations.

Older LG NetCast TVs (2012-2013)

LG NetCast TVs (pre-webOS era) have very limited app compatibility. The ThinQ app does not support NetCast models. Some third-party apps like Smartify claim NetCast support for basic remote functions, and IR blaster apps work with any LG TV regardless of its operating system.

Frequently Asked Questions About Controlling LG TV with Phone

Can I control my LG TV with my phone if I lost the physical remote?

Yes, you can control your LG TV with your phone even without the physical remote. Download the free LG ThinQ app on your iPhone or Android, connect to the same WiFi network as your TV, and pair via the on-screen PIN code to get full remote control.

If your TV isn't connected to WiFi yet, use the physical joystick button (bottom-center or back panel of the TV) to navigate to WiFi settings first. If your phone has an IR blaster, you can skip WiFi entirely and use an IR remote app to control the TV immediately.

Does the LG ThinQ app work without WiFi?

The LG ThinQ app requires WiFi to connect - both your phone and TV must be on the same 2.4GHz network. For controlling your LG TV without WiFi, use an IR blaster app on a phone with a built-in infrared transmitter (Xiaomi, OnePlus, and OPPO models). You can also connect a USB-C IR blaster dongle ($10-$20) to any Android phone for IR functionality.

What is the best free app to control an LG TV?

The best free app is the official LG ThinQ app, which provides full remote control, touchpad, keyboard, and app launcher at no cost. For third-party options, TVRem is completely free on iPhone without ads or subscriptions. Smartify and MeisterApps' LG TV Remote Control Plus offer free basic remotes with premium features available through paid upgrades.

Can I control my LG TV with an Apple Watch?

Yes, using the "Remote Control Smart LG TV" app by Quanticapps, available on the App Store. It supports volume, channel, power, and basic navigation directly from your wrist. The app requires initial setup through the companion iPhone app and connects over WiFi.

What is the difference between LG TV Plus and LG ThinQ?

LG TV Plus has been discontinued and fully merged into the LG ThinQ app. If you previously used LG TV Plus, download ThinQ from the App Store or Play Store - it includes all the same remote control features plus expanded smart home management. Any guides or articles that reference LG TV Plus are outdated.

How do I type on my LG TV using my phone?

Connect the LG ThinQ app and tap the keyboard icon when a text input field is active on the TV. Your phone keyboard appears automatically, letting you type directly into Netflix searches, YouTube, login screens, and any app that supports LG's keyboard protocol. Third-party apps like Smartify (premium) and MeisterApps (premium) also offer keyboard functionality.

Can I use my phone to control a non-smart LG TV?

You can control a non-smart LG TV using a phone with a built-in IR blaster or an external IR blaster dongle. Download an IR remote app like ZaZa Remote, select LG as the brand, and point your phone at the TV to control it like a traditional infrared remote. WiFi-based apps like ThinQ won't work because non-smart TVs lack WiFi connectivity.

Best Way to Control Your LG TV with Phone: Final Recommendations

After testing every method across multiple LG TVs and phone models, here's who should use what.

For most people, the free LG ThinQ app is the clear winner. It gives you the most features at no cost, including keyboard, touchpad, app launcher, and smart home controls. The two-minute setup is worth the permanent upgrade in convenience.

For Apple ecosystem users, pair ThinQ with AirPlay and HomeKit for the complete package. Add the Quanticapps app if you want Apple Watch control. This combination gives you more ways to control your LG TV than any physical remote ever could.

For no-WiFi situations, an IR blaster app on a Xiaomi or OnePlus phone is your only truly wireless option. It lacks smart features, but it works reliably for basic control when WiFi isn't available.

For smart home enthusiasts, linking ThinQ to Google Home or Alexa routines turns your LG TV into just another voice-controlled device in your connected home. Saying "goodnight" to dim the lights, lock the door, and turn off the TV never gets old.

LG's webOS Re:New program means these phone control capabilities will keep improving over time - your 2022+ LG TV will continue receiving software updates for years, potentially adding new features and better app integration. Bookmark this guide for future reference, as we update it regularly with new app releases and webOS changes.