TV & Remote

How to Use Your iPhone as a Roku Remote

Replace a missing Roku remote with your iPhone in a few taps.

3 min read · Updated July 30, 2026

Quick answer

Put the iPhone and Roku on the same Wi-Fi, open a Roku remote app, and select your device.

Connect the remote

The directional pad, Home, Back, and playback buttons should work immediately.

  1. Connect the iPhone to your home Wi-Fi.
  2. Turn on the Roku.
  3. Open the remote app.
  4. Allow Local Network access.
  5. Tap your Roku.

If the Roku is missing

Guest Wi-Fi may block devices from seeing each other.

  1. Confirm both devices use the same Wi-Fi name.
  2. Turn off any VPN.
  3. Check Settings > Privacy & Security > Local Network.
  4. Restart the Roku and reopen the app.

After changing Wi-Fi

The phone cannot find a Roku that is offline. Reuse the old Wi-Fi name and password on the new router, or connect the Roku with a physical remote first.

Common questions

Can the iPhone remote work without Wi-Fi?

No. The iPhone and Roku need a network connection to talk to each other.

Can it set up a brand-new Roku?

Usually not. The Roku needs to join Wi-Fi before a phone remote can find it.

Learn more