Roku devices have been used in over 40 million households worldwide as of 2020. The streaming device is the most popular in the U.S., with a market share of 37.5%. Roku users spend an average of 3 hours and 20 minutes per day streaming content.
A remote control comes with every Roku player. But Roku remotes are different from most other remotes you’ve used because they connect to their players through WiFi. That means you can’t watch your shows if you lose your remote or it stops working.
Roku players are examples of the internet of things (IOT) which rely on an internet connection to function. The physical remote and the Roku player are on the same WiFi network, allowing them to communicate. If one is lost or not on the same network, they won’t function altogether.
Have you ever been stuck in your home with no remote and wondered how to use your Roku? We feel your pain. Don’t worry; there are still ways to use your Roku without the remote. This post discusses options on how to use Roku without a remote.
Using The Roku Mobile App
The most common way how to use Roku without a remote is by downloading the free mobile app for iOS or Android. The Roku mobile app will be able to control the Roku device, search for content, launch channels, and enter text. It can also be used to cast content from a compatible mobile device to a Roku device.
The Roku mobile app can also be used to set up a new Roku device or add a new channel. Once downloaded, you can connect it to your device and access the same features as the physical remote. This includes navigating menus, selecting shows and movies, adjusting the volume, and much more. You can even use voice control if you have an Echo device or Google Home connected to your device.
For this to work, your device and the Roku player must be connected to the same WiFi network.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using the Roku mobile app:
1. Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Look for the official Roku app, then download and install it. Be careful because there are imitation apps that are unofficial versions and may contain harmful content.
2. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions. Agree to the terms and conditions and complete the quick tutorial.
3. Tap Devices at the bottom of the screen. Click OK to allow the app to find nearby Roku devices.
4. Select your Roku device.
5. Tap the Remote icon, which is indicated by a plus-shaped icon.
6. You are now looking at a replica of your Roku remote. You can use this to control your TV.
As long as your smart device and the Roku player are connected to the same network, you can use the app as a remote and control your Roku device.
Using A Chrome Extension
If you find it irritating to use your phone to control your Roku device, you can download a Chrome extension like Remoku. This extension allows you to control your Roku device using a laptop or PC.
Simply install the extension in Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Once successfully installed, just press the Remoku icon, and you’ll have access to a remote-like interface. As long as your Roku player and computer are on the same network, you can control the Roku device with this Chrome extension.
Using A Replacement Or Universal Remote
Nothing beats watching TV with a remote. If you want to use your Roku player with a remote, you can always order a replacement. When the remote arrives, you only need to pair it with the Roku TV to get it up and running.
Alternatively, you can also purchase a universal remote that’s compatible with Roku players. This will allow you to control your Roku TV and other devices.
Enjoy Your Roku Player Even Without A Remote
As you can see, there are several ways how to use Roku without a remote. Whether it’s downloading the mobile app or using a Chrome extension — there is always something that can help make sure that you never miss out on streaming content. So don’t let not having a traditional remote stand between you and your content streaming fun.
Do you want to do more with your Roku remote control? Check out our guide on reprogramming Roku remote buttons.
