[SOLVED] Samsung Galaxy S7 TV Remote

In times of need, Samsung Galaxy S7 could serve as a TV remote and there is no shortage of articles on the topic of Samsung Galaxy S7 TV remote nowadays. Many of such articles fail to present all the information though so many people still struggle to turn their Galaxy S7 into a TV remote. You also want to use your Samsung phone as a TV remote but have a hard time locating a detailed guide? Then this article is exactly what you need.

Preparation

Noteworthily, while Samsung Galaxy S7 could double as a TV remote, it’s unable to do so from the get-go. To be able to use your S7 to remotely control the TV, you must make preparations.

Pick Up A IR Blaster

In case you don’t know, many Samsung phones include a device called IR blaster which allows them to control nearby devices. That being said, unlike its predecessors, Samsung Galaxy S7 lacks IR blaster so you must be creative. Get your hands on an external IR blaster that connects to the 3.5mm audio jack socket. It’s highly likely that you would be able to get one at around $5 on Amazon.

Check Out The TV

In layman’s terms, Samsung Galaxy S7 cannot control all TVs out there so it’s wise to take a look at the TV. In most of the cases, if your TV supports Android TV, your S7 could control it. Aside from that, you should make sure that both your Samsung phone and your TV use the same Wi-Fi network.

Android Remote Control App

The last thing you need is an Android application that permits remote control via IR blaster. You would be able to get such an app by searching for Android TV remote control in the Google Play Store. For good measure, once you come across an app you like, read the ratings and reviews section to pick a suitable one for your setup. If the app seems legit, download and install it.

 

Note: It’s up to you to decide which app to use but if possible, go for Peel Smart Remote, Sure Universal Remote, Zaza Remote, etc.

Execution

  • Step 1: Connect the IR blaster to your Samsung Galaxy S7’s audio jack. If you want to make sure the blaster is working, feel free to download and install an IR checker from the app store.
  • Step 2: On your Samsung phone, open the Android remote control application you recently installed. Assuming that you have both the TV and the smartphone connected to the same Wi-Fi network, the TV should be visible on the application.
  • Step 3: Select the TV on the app to generate a code on your TV screen. Enter the code into the Android remote app and then choose “Associate” to pair the devices. You should now be able to use the Samsung Galaxy S7 to control your TV.

Note: Certain Android remote apps such as Peel Smart TV also require you to go through several additional steps including setting your TV’s brand name and model. That lets the app send the correct signals through your IR blaster.

  • Step 4: Carry out some tests as instructed in the application to see how well the remote configuration functions. For instance, turning the TV off/on, changing the volume/channels, …
  • Step 5: Repeat the same pairing process for your phone and the set-top box provided by your cable/DTH company. Remember to test how everything works together in the end. If there is nothing out of the ordinary, less identical to a real remote controller so you should not have any problem using it.

A List Of Samsung Smartphones That Have Built-In IR Blasters

Don’t want to rely on external IR blasters? Then you could grab a phone that contain a built-in IR blaster.

  • Samsung Galaxy J
  • Samsung Galaxy Mega
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 3
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 4
  • Samsung Galaxy Note Edge
  • Samsung Galaxy Round
  • Samsung Galaxy S4
  • Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
  • Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom
  • Samsung Galaxy S5
  • Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini
  • Samsung Galaxy S6
  • Samsung Galaxy S6 Active
  • Samsung SGH-E700
  • Samsung SGH-E715
  • Samsung i300
  • Samsung SGH-X200
  • Samsung SPH-i700

The Removal Of IR Blasters: Analysis

A lot of theories exist but the removal of IR blasters is likely the result of obsolescence and unpopularity. You won’t see IR blasters on Galaxy S8 and later.