The situation when the TV remote control Sony Bravia The TV suddenly stops working, often at the most inopportune moment. The batteries could be dead, the infrared sensor could be dirty, or the remote itself could simply be lost among the sofa cushions. However, the need to connect the TV to the internet remains, especially if you want to watch a streaming service or update the software.
Fortunately, modern Smart TV from Sony, running on the operating system Android TV or Google TV, have a fairly flexible architecture. This allows for device management and the necessary network parameters to be configured using alternative methods. Owners of older models with proprietary shells will also benefit, as universal solutions exist for them.
In this article, we will examine in detail all possible connection options. Wi-Fi to your Sony TV using only a smartphone, computer peripherals, or the device's built-in features. You'll learn how to bypass interface limitations and configure the network even if menu navigation seems impossible without familiar buttons.
Using your smartphone as a full-fledged remote control
The most efficient and modern way to control your Sony TV is with your smartphone. Since the TV and phone are most likely in the same room, you only need to install a dedicated app. If your TV is already connected to the same Wi-Fi network (even if you can't enter the password due to a broken remote, as long as the network remembers the device), the process will only take a couple of minutes.
Sony has developed an official application Sony | Video & TV SideView (or simply TV SideView), which turns the smartphone screen into a touchpad. After installing the application on Android or iOS, you need to launch it and select your TV from the list of available devices. A confirmation code may appear on the TV screen that you'll need to enter on your phone, but pairing often happens automatically.
It's important to note that initial pairing sometimes requires devices to be on the same subnet. If the TV isn't yet connected to the network, some models allow you to create a pairing Wi-Fi Direct Direct connection to the phone. In this mode, the smartphone creates an access point to which the TV connects, allowing it to transmit data to connect to the main router.
- 📱 Download the official app Sony TV SideView from Google Play or App Store.
- 🔌 Make sure your TV is turned on and in connection standby mode.
- 📡 Launch the app and follow the on-screen instructions to search for your device.
- ⌨️ Use your smartphone's virtual keyboard to enter your Wi-Fi password.
⚠️ Please note: If your TV has not been previously paired with any device, you may need to press a button on the TV's physical body (usually the power button or control stick) once to initially activate the remote control feature.
Once successfully connected, you will have full access to the menu. You can go to the section Settings → Network & Internet and select your network. The virtual keyboard on your smartphone's screen is much more convenient than typing characters using the buttons on the old remote, speeding up the process of entering a complex password.
Connecting a USB keyboard and mouse
If your smartphone doesn't work or the app doesn't recognize your TV, standard computer peripherals come to the rescue. Almost all TVs Sony Bravia have been equipped with ports for the last 10 years USB, which support Human Interface Devices (HID). This means you can connect a standard wired or wireless USB keyboard and mouse directly to the port on the TV panel.
In this case, the mouse emulates the operation of the remote control: the cursor on the screen replaces the navigation arrows, and clicks replace the button OK or EnterThe keyboard allows you to instantly enter your Wi-Fi password without having to select letters one by one. This is especially useful for complex passwords with capital letters and special characters.
In some cases, especially on older firmware versions Android TVYou may need to enable debugging mode or use a USB hub if the keyboard is consuming a lot of power. However, in 95% of cases, the device is detected automatically immediately after connection. The mouse cursor will appear on the screen, and you can easily access the network settings.
It's worth remembering that not all keyboard models are compatible. Simple office models work best, while gaming keyboards with macros may not be detected correctly by the TV. If you're using a wireless keyboard with a USB receiver, plug the receiver into the TV's USB port.
HDMI-CEC method: control from another device
Technology HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) allows devices connected via HDMI to control each other. If you have a set-top box (such as an Apple TV, Nvidia Shield, or even a gaming console) that's already connected to Wi-Fi and has its own remote or control app, you can try using it to navigate the TV menu.
In Sony settings this function is often called Bravia SyncIf it was previously activated, the set-top box's remote control or its app on your phone can control the TV's main interface. You'll be able to switch between signal sources and, in some cases, open the TV's system menu.
This method doesn't always work, as it depends on the specific external device's support for TV menu control commands. However, if you have Apple TV With the Siri Remote, your chances of success are high. Try holding down the Home button or using a key combination to bring up the TV control menu.
⚠️ Important: The Bravia Sync feature must be enabled in the TV menu beforehand. If the TV has been reset to factory settings or the feature has been disabled, this method will not work without using the buttons on the TV.
To enable CEC control from another device, go to its settings and find the section related to TV control. For example, on Apple TV This Settings → Remotes and Devices → TV ControlEnable all available options and try navigating the Sony menu.
List of compatible brands for HDMI-CEC
Samsung (Anynet+), LG (SimpLink), Panasonic (Viera Link), Philips (EasyLink), Sony (Bravia Sync).
Using the buttons on the TV body
When there are no external devices at hand, the only reliable option is the physical buttons on the case itself. Sony BraviaThe location and functionality of these buttons depend on the year and model series. Modern models often use a single multi-function joystick or touchpad, while older models use a set of individual buttons.
The most common option is a control button (joystick) located on the bottom edge, often centered or to the right. Pressing it brings up a menu, while sliding it up, down, left, or right mimics the remote control buttons. A long press often turns on the TV or opens a context menu.
If you have a model with separate buttons, look for the markings MENU, INPUT or a house icon. The key combinations may vary. For example, on some models, to enter the main menu, you need to press and hold the power button, then, without releasing it, press the volume button.
| Button layout | Control type | Action for menu | Action to select |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom edge (center) | One joystick | Short press | Side bends |
| Side (right side) | Set of buttons | Menu/Input button | +/- or Vol buttons |
| Back (left) | Touchpad | Tap or swipe | Swipe left/right |
| Bottom edge (hidden) | Button under the logo | Click on the logo | Press again |
Using these buttons, you can slowly but surely navigate to the network settings section. The key is to take your time and memorize the sequence of presses, as visual feedback on the screen may be delayed. Entering the password in this case will be a real challenge, so it's better to use the USB keyboard method if the buttons on the device don't allow you to conveniently access the virtual keyboard.
Setting up a static IP and DNS through a router
There's an advanced method that allows you to "trick" your TV into connecting to the network without entering a password directly on the device. This works if your router supports this feature. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) or if you can set up MAC address filtering.
The method involves adding the TV's MAC address to the router's list of allowed devices (whitelist) or using WPS. To do this, you'll need to know the TV's MAC address. It can be found on a sticker on the back of the device or in the TV's box (labeled as MAC ID or Wireless MAC).
Access your router settings from your computer. Find the section Wireless or Wi-Fi and further MAC Filter or Access ControlAdd the TV's MAC address to the list of authorized addresses. Then, enable WPS mode on the router (usually using the button on the router) and try searching for the network on the TV. In some cases, the TV may connect automatically after recognizing the authorized device.
☑️ Check before connection
However, this method has limitations. It won't work if the TV has never been connected to this network and doesn't have any saved profiles. However, if you've connected before and the password has changed, or if you want to connect to a guest network without entering the password on the big screen, this method may work.
Reset network settings and factory reset
If none of these methods help, and the TV is glitching, not detecting networks or not allowing data entry, the last resort is a reset. Some Sony models have a button combination on the TV body for resetting network settings or a full factory reset (Factory Reset).
Often, to reset the TV, you need to turn it off using the button on the TV case, then press and hold a specific combination (for example, the volume "+" button and the power button) and, while holding them, turn the TV on. It's best to look for the exact combination for your model in the manual, as it's unique to each series. Bravia.
After the reset, the TV will start up as new. During the initial setup process (Initial Setup) the system will automatically offer to connect to Wi-Fi. At this point, navigation can be simplified, and using a smartphone via the app Sony SideView This often works better because the TV actively searches for devices to pair with.
⚠️ Note: A full reset will delete all your accounts, installed apps, and personalized settings. Use this method only if other options have been exhausted.
After successful connection, don't forget to update your TV's software. New firmware versions Android TV often contain improvements to the Wi-Fi module, which may resolve connection stability issues you were previously experiencing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a keyboard via Bluetooth if the USB port is busy?
Usually not. Initially pairing a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse with a Sony Bravia TV often requires menu navigation, which is difficult without a remote. A USB keyboard is plug-and-play and doesn't require pairing, so it's preferable.
Does the Sony SideView app work if the TV is offline?
In most cases, no. The app requires both devices to be on the same local network. However, some newer models support Wi-Fi Direct, which allows the phone to connect directly to the TV, bypassing the router, but this feature must be activated first.
How can I find out the MAC address of my TV if it won't turn on?
The MAC address is always listed on the factory sticker on the back of the TV. This information can also be found on the device's box or in the warranty card. Look for the line that says MAC ID or Wireless MAC.
Why doesn't the TV detect my USB keyboard?
The USB port may not be providing sufficient power, or the keyboard's file system may not be supported. Try using a powered USB hub or a different, simpler keyboard. Also, check to see if the port is blocked in the power saving settings (if you can access the menu).
Is it possible to control a Sony TV via a phone's IR port?
Only if your smartphone has a built-in IR transmitter (often found in older Xiaomi, Huawei, and Samsung phones). In this case, you can download a universal remote (such as Mi Remote or AnyMote) and select a code for your Sony TV. This is a complete replacement for a physical remote.