Lost or broken Google TV / Android TV remote — what you can do
Good news: Google TV and Android TV sets confirm a new phone with a code shown on the TV screen. You type the code in NoStrings, so no remote is needed, even the first time. This covers TVs from Xiaomi, TCL, Hisense (Google TV models), Kivi, Toshiba and other brands built on Google TV or Android TV. Support is new — if something doesn't work on your model, tap Send report in the app. Sony BRAVIA and Philips have their own guides.
Connect without the remote
- Make sure the TV is on and connected to the same Wi-Fi router as your iPhone (not a guest network). Turn VPN off on the iPhone.
- Install NoStrings, open it and allow Local Network access when the iPhone asks.
- Tap your TV in the list.
- The TV shows a 6-character code. Type it in the app. Done.
If the TV asks to confirm
The code is the confirmation, so there's nothing to press on the TV. If the code disappears before you finish typing, just connect again and a new one appears.
Turn the TV on
Most Google TVs keep their remote service running in standby, so NoStrings can wake them over Wi-Fi. If yours doesn't wake up, it may be in a deep power-saving standby that switches the network off; look in the TV's power settings, or turn it on with the button on the TV.
Keep in mind: you do this only once. After the first connection the TV remembers your iPhone, and the app connects by itself every time you open it. No remote needed again.
Questions
How do I know my TV is Google TV or Android TV?
The home screen says “Google TV”, or the TV has Google Play and Google Assistant. If so, this guide is for you.
My Hisense or Sony isn't on Google TV.
Hisense VIDAA TVs have their own guide: Hisense VIDAA. Sony BRAVIA works best through Sony's own mode: Sony BRAVIA guide.
Can I open a YouTube or Netflix link on the TV?
Yes. Copy the link on your iPhone, paste it in the app's Keyboard and tap “Play on TV”.
Something doesn't work on my model.
Write to support@nostringsremote.com with the TV brand and model and we'll look into it.
The basic remote (power, volume, channels, arrows, Home, Back, playback) is free: no subscription, no ads, no account. Pro is a one-time purchase that adds the keyboard, touchpad, TV apps, photos on the TV, widgets, Apple Watch and Siri.
Get NoStrings on the App Store
Still stuck? Write to us: support@nostringsremote.com