AppsHow-to

Can You Use an Apple Watch as a TV Remote?

The Apple Watch has a Remote app, and the name suggests more than it does. It was made for one device.

By the Kliky team · Updated · 2 min read

Get KlikyScan with your phone camera to download

An Apple Watch works as a TV remote for an Apple TV only, through its Remote app. It does not control Samsung, LG, Roku, Fire TV or Google TV sets, although Roku’s iPhone app adds a basic watch remote. For other TVs use the phone: Kliky runs on iPhone, iPad and Android and has no watch app.

Apple TV

Open Remote on the watch, choose the Apple TV and enter the code it shows. You get a swipe area, Menu, TV and Play/Pause. Both devices must be on the same Wi‑Fi.

Roku and other smart TVs

Roku’s app installs a small remote on the watch once the iPhone app is set up. TV makers’ own apps differ and change often, so check the watch section of the App Store listing for yours.

Kliky runs on iPhone, iPad and Android, not on the watch, and it controls an Apple TV as well as the brands above. With an iPhone in your pocket it is the same reach, with a keyboard and voice that a watch screen cannot offer.

The iPhone as the remote

The iPhone’s Control Center remote is also for Apple TV and AirPlay-compatible TVs. For Roku, Fire TV, Samsung, LG and Google TV sets, see use an iPhone as a TV remote.

  1. Install Kliky from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Connect your phone to the same Wi‑Fi as the TV.
  3. Pick the TV in the list and confirm on the TV if it asks.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Can an Apple Watch control a Samsung or LG TV?

Not with Apple’s Remote app, which is for Apple TV only.

Can an Apple Watch control a Roku?

Yes, through the watch companion of Roku’s iPhone app, with basic keys.

Does Kliky have an Apple Watch app?

No. Kliky runs on iPhone, iPad and Android.

Control your TV from your phone

Scan to download Kliky for iPhone and Android.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
Scan to download

Back to resources