How to Control Your Roku Without a Remote

Your Roku remote is missing and you cannot control your TV. You can restore full control of your device using the official Roku mobile app.

1. Download and install the Roku app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on your smartphone [0:23].
2. Ensure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device [0:46].
3. Open the app, tap the Remote icon, and select your Roku device from the list to connect [0:53].
4. Use the on-screen home button to wake your TV and navigate the interface [1:02].
5. Use the search feature to find movies or shows and tap play to start them directly on your TV [1:10].
6. Tap the headphone icon in the app to activate private listening, which redirects your TV audio through your phone’s connected headphones.

Ninja Tip: If your Roku isn’t showing up in the app, verify that your phone isn’t connected to a guest network or a VPN, as these often prevent the app from communicating with local media devices.

If you still cannot connect, perform a factory reset by navigating to Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Factory reset.