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How to set up SmartThings with a Samsung TV and use your phone as a remote

The SmartThings app lets you add your Samsung TV to your phone and use it as a remote control. It is also handy if your remote breaks.

What you need

  • A Samsung TV that supports SmartThings, usually Smart TVs from recent years
  • The free SmartThings app on your phone, from the App Store or Google Play
  • A Samsung account
  • Your phone and TV on the same Wi-Fi

Add your TV

  1. Install and open SmartThings, then sign in with your Samsung account.
  2. Tap the + icon and choose Add device.
  3. Select TV or look for your Samsung TV in the list of nearby devices.
  4. Enter the PIN or code shown on the TV screen.
  5. Follow the prompts until the TV appears in the app.

Screens vary between app versions. Follow what the app and TV show, and check Samsung's support page for the latest steps.

Use your phone as a remote

Open SmartThings, tap your TV and look for the Remote option. A virtual remote appears with the main buttons. Many phones also let you type with the phone keyboard, which is much easier than the on-screen keyboard.

If your TV will not appear

  • Make sure the TV is switched on.
  • Check both devices are on the same Wi-Fi, not a guest network.
  • Update the TV software under Settings > Support > Software Update.
  • Restart the TV and phone.
  • Check you are using the same Samsung account on both.

If the physical remote is dead

The app can help only if the TV was already set up with SmartThings or can be paired. If the TV is not on Wi-Fi and the remote is broken, you may need a replacement remote.

When to get more help

If the TV still will not connect, your router or the TV model may be the cause. Vision Tech can help you set it up.

Did this help? If you are still stuck, email Vision Tech and tell us what you can see on the screen. Menus and button names can differ slightly between versions and makes. If something does not match, stop and ask rather than guess.

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