How to Set Up & Use the Apple TV Remote App

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There's an Apple TV remote app available for download in the iTunes Store, but if your iPhone is running iOS 11 or later, you don't need it; your iPhone's Control Center automatically includes the Apple TV Remote app. The iPhone remote control feature is super convenient, especially if you've lost your Apple TV remote or want to use your iPhone keyboard to enter text in the search field on your Apple TV instead of slowly and painfully swiping through one letter at a time with your remote. Here’s how to set up the Apple TV Remote in your iPhone's Control Center to operate your Apple TV.

Related: How to Connect iPhone or iPad to Your TV: HDMI Cable or AirPlay with Apple TV

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How to Set Up & Use the Apple TV Remote App 

The Apple TV Remote is automatically added to your Control Center with iOS 13. If the app is missing, here's how to add it to your Control Center:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Control Center.
   
   
    
3. Select Customize Controls.
4. Tap the green + next to Apple TV Remote.
   
   

Now, the Apple TV Remote app has been restored to the Control Center. Next, you'll need to connect your iPhone remote to your Apple TV.

1. Swipe down from the upper right corner to open Control Center. (If you have an iPhone with a Home button, swipe up from the bottom of the screen.)
   
   
    
2. In Control Center, you'll see the Apple TV Remote icon; tap it.
3. Now the Apple TV Remote app will pop up and begin searching for your Apple TV.
4. Select your Apple TV and then enter the code that appears on the TV screen.
   
   

Now you can control your Apple TV using the Apple TV Remote from right within Control Center. To learn more tips and tricks for your iPhone's Apple TV Remote, be sure to sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.