To control a TV, air conditioner, or other appliance with infrared, your Android phone needs a built-in IR emitter or a compatible external transmitter. A remote-control app provides device profiles and buttons; it cannot add IR hardware to a phone that lacks it. Check your exact phone model first, then add and test the appliance in a compatible app.
Check whether your phone can transmit infrared
Look up the exact phone model in the manufacturer’s specifications or support pages and confirm that it has an IR emitter. Android phones do not all include one. A remote app alone is not enough: it needs an emitter in the phone or a supported external transmitter to send IR signals.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Xiaomi describes Mi Remote as an app that works with a phone’s IR blaster. Its support page lists examples including TVs, set-top boxes, DVD players, smart boxes, air conditioners, projectors, and cameras. That list describes device categories, not guaranteed support for every model. See Xiaomi’s Mi Remote setup guidance.
Set up an appliance in Mi Remote
- Open Mi Remote. Use it on a phone with an IR emitter supported by the app.
- Tap Add remote. Choose the appliance category, such as TV, fan, or set-top box.
- Choose the brand or provider. Select the requested option from the app’s list.
- Run the power test. When prompted, tap the displayed Power button and check whether the appliance responds. Follow any on-screen instructions.
- Check the controls you need. Test functions such as volume, input, temperature, or channel rather than assuming the power test confirms the whole remote works.
- Try another offered profile if necessary. If the test fails, return to the choices and test another profile for that brand, if one is available. Xiaomi notes that some devices are unsupported.
A brand appearing in the app does not prove that every product from that brand will work. The practical test is whether your particular appliance responds to the selected profile and to the controls you plan to use.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with more devices: Effortlessly control TVs, Set Top Boxes, Air Conditioners, Projectors, Ott-Boxes, DVDs, Amplifiers, SLRs, Fans, IR Switches, Water Hoters, Electric Heaters, Air Cleaners, Robot Vacuums and Blinds with OCRUSTAR All in One Remote Control.
- Compatible with more brands: OCRUSTAR Universal Remote Control Adapter compatible with Samsung, Vizio, Roku, Sony, Sharp, Samsung, Panasonic, TCL, RCA, Hisense, Toshiba, Fhilips, LG and more.
- OCRUSTAR IR Remote Control Convenience: ✅The type-c plug compatible with IOS and Android system✅, Manage your home devices from your smartphone with the Ocrustar Remote App, bringing ease and efficiency to your fingertips.
- Portable & Stylish: On-the-go control in style! The OCRUSTAR mobile phone universal remote control featuring a key ring and silicone case, universal remote control can be placed in a silicone case for portability and protection.
- What you'll get: 1* universal remote adapter, 1* user's guider, 1* key ring, 1* silicone case
If your phone has no built-in IR emitter
An external IR transmitter may be an option, but compatibility depends on the particular phone, connector, accessory, app, and Android version. Some third-party apps describe support for specific USB IR dongles or audio-to-IR adapters; that does not mean an arbitrary USB-C accessory will work.
Before buying an optional supported USB-C IR dongle, confirm that its maker and the app identify it as compatible with your exact phone and Android version. For example, the Google Play listing for IR Blaster Remote describes built-in emitters on supported devices, supported USB IR dongles, and audio-to-IR adapters. Its feature description is specific to that app and supported hardware. F-Droid’s listing for the same app describes version 3.3.2, added July 4, 2026, as requiring Android 7.0 or newer and mentions Ocrustar USB-C dongle support. Those details do not establish compatibility for other accessories or phones.
Rank #2
- ✅ Universal Control for All Appliances: Supports over 8000+ global brands and hundreds of device categories—TV, AC, Set-Top Box, DTH, Projector, Fans, Lights, DVD Player, and more.
- ✅ Works with Ocrustar App (Android & iOS): Use the official Ocrustar App for automatic device recognition, quick pairing, and access to the full remote database.
- ✅IR Learning (formerly IR Copying) Function: Easily copy the IR signal from your original remote to the Ocrustar adapter. Perfect for older or rare appliances whose codes aren’t available in the database.
- ✅ Auto Detection on iPhone (Type-C) For iPhone users, the adapter is automatically detected by the Ocrustar App—no manual configuration needed. ✅ Android User: Some Devices May need to Turn on OTG Function on Mobile Device( Steps Given in Description)
- ✅ Upgraded 7th Gen IR Technology: Enjoy an extended 8-meter signal range, 180° coverage, and fast response for precise control.
IR remotes and Google Home are different control routes
IR control sends codes from a phone emitter or external transmitter to an appliance. Google Home controls supported smart-home devices connected through the Home app; it is a separate route, not a way to send IR codes. Google documents access to compatible device controls from the lock screen or Quick Settings, with categories including lights, thermostats, locks, cameras, plugs, vacuums, TVs, and speakers. See Google’s instructions for controlling smart devices on Android.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsQuick Recap
Rank #4
- EASY PAIRING: Smartphone IR remote controller has a stable and IR that can be easily paired with your home appliances.
- ANTI LOSS DESIGN: IR remote controller features an anti loss design with a key chain and silicone case, so you can take it with you without worrying about it getting lost.
- PLUG AND PLAY: Smartphone remote controller is plug and play, your smartphone will become an all in one smart home control center.
- WIDELY COMPATIBLE: Mini smartphone IR remote controller is widely compatible and is an excellent choice for , for for , etc.
- STABLE CONTROL: Type C IR remote control provides stable control with remarkable anti interference performance and distance up to 15m.
Rank #3
- This smart IR remote controller has stable and reliable IR signal, pairing to your household appliance easily. Steady transmission distance as long as 10m.
- Wide Compatible: with this device and smart phone APP, your phone will become a powerful remote control, great choice for Samsung, Vizio, Lg, Sony, Sharp, Roku, Apple TV and more
- Tiny and Convenient: Anti-Lost design, with key chain and silicone case, you could carry it anywhere do not worry it will be lost.Lightning work with Apple device, Type-C work with Android device
- Plug-and-play the smart IR remote controller to your mobile, scan and download App "uniTV Remote" to control. Your smartphone rightly change to a All-in-One Smart Home Control Hub. You get control of all your home applicance by a touch on App.
- Choose IR when the phone or a verified accessory can transmit to the appliance and an app offers a profile that passes your real-device test.
- Choose Google Home controls when the device is a compatible smart-home product connected to the Home app.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
