The experience of a physical remote control getting lost, broken, or simply running out of batteries is familiar to every owner of modern technology. Fortunately, the ecosystem LG Electronics offers an excellent alternative via mobile devices. Using a smartphone as a remote control isn't just a temporary solution, but often a more convenient way to navigate menus, enter text, and access multimedia content.
Modern televisions LG Smart TV, working on platforms webOS or Android TV, have powerful network modules. This allows commands to be transmitted not only via an infrared port (which phones often lack), but also via a local network. Wi-FiThis protocol ensures stable communication over long distances and the ability to control the system from anywhere in the apartment.
In this guide, we'll cover all available methods for activating the screen and controlling your TV. We'll cover both the manufacturer's built-in apps and third-party solutions, and we'll also cover network configuration for seamless system operation. Smart Share.
Technical requirements and equipment preparation
Before you begin setting up, you need to make sure your hardware meets the minimum requirements. To work through Wi-Fi It's critical that both your smartphone and TV are on the same local network. If your router broadcasts signals on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies with different names (SSIDs), make sure both devices are connected to the same network name.
The TV must support the technology Smart TVOlder models without internet access can only be enabled if your smartphone has an IR port (InfraRed) and you use the appropriate emulator app. However, in the context of this article, we are specifically considering networking via LG ThinQ or similar protocols.
⚠️ Note: On some LG TV models, the remote wake-up feature may be disabled by default in energy-saving mode. If your TV is not responding, check your power settings.
It's also important to check the operating system version on your Android device. Modern apps require it for proper operation. Android 6.0 or higher. Older versions may not support the required encryption protocols or network device discovery features.
LG ThinQ Official App: Basic Method
The most reliable and functional way to control the device is to use the official software from the manufacturer. Application LG ThinQ (formerly known as LG SmartView) is deeply integrated into the TV's operating system. It allows you to not only turn the device on and off, but also fully duplicate the remote control. Magic Remote.
The setup process begins with installing the app from the store. Google PlayOnce launched, the program will automatically scan your local network. If the TV is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, it should appear in the list of available devices. You'll need to confirm the pairing by checking the code on the TV and smartphone screens.
Once paired successfully, your phone becomes a fully functional remote control. You gain access to a virtual keyboard, which is especially handy when entering Wi-Fi passwords or searching for videos on YouTube. Function Screen Share Allows you to broadcast images from your phone directly to the big screen.
☑️ Checking the LG ThinQ connection
One of the app's key features is the ability to create scenarios. You can set up your TV to turn on automatically when you launch a specific app on your phone or via a voice command. Google Assistant, if such integration is supported in your region.
Alternative apps for managing Smart TVs
If for some reason the official app does not satisfy you with its interface or functionality, the store Google Play offers a variety of alternatives. Third-party developers often offer more flexible settings and support controlling multiple TVs from different brands simultaneously.
A popular solution is the app Universal TV Remote or TV Remote for LGThese programs use the same data exchange protocols as the original software, but may have a simpler interface. Some of them allow you to control your TV even without prior pairing, as long as the devices are on the same subnet.
- 📱 TV Remote - Universal: Supports volume, channel and settings menu control, and has a built-in keyboard.
- 🎮 Remote Control for LG: It features a virtual game panel and macro support for quickly launching applications.
- 🌐 WiFi TV Remote: A minimalist app with low battery consumption, ideal for basic control.
When choosing third-party software, pay attention to the permissions it requests. To function, it requires access to the local network and, in some cases, the microphone for voice search. Avoid apps with suspiciously broad access to personal data.
Third-party application security
Use only apps with high ratings and numerous reviews. Avoid apps that require access to contacts or SMS, as these aren't necessary for controlling the TV. It's best to choose software from reputable developers specializing in smart home utilities.
It's important to understand that third-party apps may not support all features of your TV model. For example, cursor control (a feature Point) or voice input may not work correctly or be absent altogether compared to the official LG ThinQ.
Using Google Home and Chromecast Built-in
Many modern televisions LG equipped with built-in technology support Google Cast (Chromecast built-in). This allows you to use the ecosystem Google Home to control the device. This method is especially convenient if you already use smart speakers or other Google devices in your home.
To get started, you need to have the service installed and updated on your TV. Google CastIt is usually built into the firmware. webOS 4.0 and above. After setup via the Google Home app on your phone, the TV will appear in the list of devices available for streaming and control.
Through the Google Home interface, you can:
- 🔊 Adjust the volume and switch signal sources.
- 📺 Play content from supported apps (YouTube, Netflix, Spotify) directly on your TV.
- 🗣️ Use Google Assistant voice commands to turn on your TV.
⚠️ Please note: Full remote wake-up (Wake-on-LAN) functionality via Google Home may be limited. While you can often turn off the TV or start media content, fully waking it from standby requires the TV to be in fast boot mode.
The advantage of this method is its deep integration with Google search. You can say, "Okay, Google, turn on the TV and show the news," and the system will perform a series of actions. However, connection stability here directly depends on Google servers and the quality of your internet connection.
Set up Quick Start+ for instant start-up
The key to successfully turning on your TV from your phone is setting up the standby mode correctly. By default, many LG models enter deep sleep mode to save power, disabling the network module. To allow your phone to "wake up" the TV, you need to activate this feature. Quick Start+.
To do this, take the physical remote (or use the app if the TV is on) and go to Settings. The path usually looks like this: Settings (gear) → All settings → General → Advanced → Quick start+. Make sure the switch is in the on position. On.
In this same menu section, pay attention to the settings Mobile connection or LG Connect AppsThis option must be enabled to allow external devices to detect the TV and send control commands to it. Without this permission, the phone app will see the TV but will not be able to interact with it.
It's also worth checking your screen's power saving settings. If set to automatically turn off after a certain period of inactivity, the TV may enter deep sleep, ignoring network packets. Set the screen timer to "Off" or the maximum value for stable operation.
Comparison of Management Methods: Table of Possibilities
To help you choose the right method, we've prepared a comparison chart. It will help you understand which method best suits your needs: simple channel switching or full-fledged multimedia interaction.
| Function / Method | LG ThinQ (Official) | Google Home | Third-party apps | IR port (if available) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On/Off | ✅ Yes (via Wi-Fi) | ✅ Yes (via Cast) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (requires line of sight) |
| Virtual keyboard | ✅ Full support | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (depending on the app) | ❌ No |
| Cursor control (Point) | ✅ Yes (gyroscope) | ❌ No | ⚠️ Partially | ❌ No |
| Working without the Internet (LAN) | ✅ Yes | ❌ Internet access required | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Voice control | ✅ Via your phone's microphone | ✅ Via Google Assistant | ⚠️ Depends on the app | ❌ No |
As can be seen from the table, LG ThinQ It remains the leader in functionality, providing access to all hidden menus and settings. The IR port method is only useful in one case: if the Wi-Fi router is down and you urgently need to switch the TV. However, not all modern Android smartphones have an IR port.
Solving common connection problems
Even with proper setup, difficulties can arise. One common issue is that the phone doesn't see the TV in the list of available devices. In 90% of cases, this is due to router settings. Check if the feature is enabled. AP Isolation (Access Point Isolation) prevents devices within the network from communicating with each other.
Another common issue is IP address desynchronization. If the router assigned new addresses to devices after a reboot, the app may be trying to access the old address. Try rebooting the router, then the TV, and only then launch the app on your smartphone.
⚠️ Note: If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network, devices may be isolated from the main network where the TV is located. To control the TV, you must connect to the main (trusted) Wi-Fi network.
Firewall issues are also worth mentioning. In rare cases, antivirus software on your phone or router security settings may block ports used by the protocol. DLNA or SSDP to detect devices. Try temporarily disabling the firewall for diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to turn on an LG TV from a phone if it is completely unplugged?
No, this is technically impossible. To receive Wi-Fi signals, the TV must be powered. If the power cord is unplugged, the circuit is de-energized, and the network module will not work. The TV must be plugged in and in standby mode (the indicator light is flashing).
Does the control work if the mobile internet is turned off on the phone?
Yes, it does. Internet access is not required for control via a local Wi-Fi network. The main requirement is that both devices (smartphone and TV) are connected to the same router. However, some features, such as voice search or online movie streaming, will require internet access.
Why does the LG ThinQ app require location access?
This is a requirement of the Android operating system. Starting with version 6.0, apps require location access permission to scan for available Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices. Without this permission, the app won't be able to find your TV in the list of devices.
Do older LG TVs (without webOS) support Wi-Fi control?
Older models (pre-2014) running the NetCast platform or earlier versions may not be supported by the current version of the LG ThinQ app. They may require an older version of the app. LG TV Remote or using universal remote controls if the model has a network interface.
What to do if the command delay is too long?
Lag is usually caused by Wi-Fi channel congestion. Try switching your router to a channel with fewer neighbors or, if possible, connecting your TV to the router via a LAN cable. This will ensure minimal latency and stable command transmission.