LG · Lost remote
Lost your LG remote? What to do
Press the power button on the TV.
What you can use instead
Which TV do you have?
Lost the LG remote? Press the power button on the TV, usually under the LG logo or on the back. Then use the LG ThinQ app or Simple TV Remote on your iPhone as the remote.
LG TVs your iPhone can control
Simple TV Remote works with LG TVs that run LG webOS, over your home Wi-Fi. Check your model, then try it free in the app.
How to control an LG TV after losing the remote
- Turn the TV onPress the power button under the LG logo or on the back of the TV.
- Join the same Wi-FiConnect your iPhone to the same home Wi-Fi network as the TV.
- Open a remote appOpen LG ThinQ, or open Simple TV Remote and pick your LG TV.
- Accept on the TVWhen the TV asks whether to allow your iPhone, use the button on the TV to choose Accept.
Questions
How do I turn on my LG TV without the remote?
Press the power button on the TV. LG says it is usually under the logo on the front or on the back, depending on the model. If the TV still won't turn on, unplug it, plug it back in firmly and try again.
How do I use the button on an LG TV?
It depends on the button. A press-in button turns the TV on with a press, off with a press and hold, and opens a menu when the TV is on. A joystick button turns the TV on with a press, changes volume when moved left or right, and changes channel when moved up or down.
Is there an LG TV remote app?
Yes. LG's own LG ThinQ app has remote controls like the Magic Remote. Sign in with an LG account, tap Add a Device, choose TV, and pick your TV. Simple TV Remote also works with LG webOS TVs from 2014 on, with no account.
Can my iPhone turn on my LG TV?
Yes, if Turn on via Wi-Fi is on and the TV is in standby. On 2023–2025 LG TVs it's at Settings > All Settings > General > External Devices > TV On With Mobile > Turn on via Wi-Fi. Older TVs keep it in a different menu, which our LG pages list by year.
Can I use my phone if my LG TV isn't on Wi-Fi?
No. Phone apps reach the TV over your home Wi-Fi. If the TV has never been connected, use the button on the TV for the basics and get a replacement remote to finish setup.
Will a different LG remote work?
LG standard remotes often work across LG TVs. Magic Remotes may not work across models, so check your model before you buy one. To register a Magic Remote, turn on the TV, point the remote at it and press the wheel (OK).
Does Simple TV Remote work with my LG TV?
It works with LG smart TVs running webOS, which LG has used since 2014. The first time you connect, the TV asks you to accept, which you can do with the button on the TV. The free check shows it working before you pay $5.99 once.
Check your TV free. Pay once if it works.
Simple TV Remote pairs with your TV and sends real commands before you pay anything. If it works, unlock it for $5.99, once.