Do you have the desire to play games on your Android TV but hesitate to buy a game controller that would be right for the purpose?
Now you can calm down!
It is possible to use your Android phone as a controller, and this post will reveal How to Use Your Phone as a Game Controller for Android TV.
This way, you will play games on your Android TV set without purchasing any additional hardware.
Advantages of Using Your Phone as a Game Controller
But before we proceed to the process itself, let us consider the key pros of using a phone as a controller for our purpose:
- You will not have to buy a new controller, which will allow you to economize.
- Ato play your favorite games on an Android TV set without any investments.
- Your phone can be used for multiple purposes
- And you will ultimately save some space because you will not need to store one additional device.
Top Methods to Use Phone as Gamepad for Android TV
Probably, the easiest way to use your Android mobile device as a gamepad for your Android TV is through the app developed by Google.
The app’s functionality, however, is limited to handling very basic commands, which might not be the best solution for certain types of games. Another way to do it is through third-party gamepad apps that offer some additional functionality.
Moreover, you can use the method of screen mirroring, which does not require any apps, but, depending on the app you use, you may experience performance issues due to latency or image quality.
Let’s look at how these methods work.
Method 1: Using the Android TV Remote Control App
The easiest way to use your phone as a controller is through the official Android TV Remote Control app. Although not designed for gaming specifically, it can be helpful with some basic games.
- Download the Android TV Remote Control app from the Google Play Store on your phone or tablet to do the first step in the process.
- Also, make sure that your phone and your Android TV device are both connected to your Wi-Fi network.
- Open the app and then on the list of the available devices choose your Android TV.
- Finally, you will see the touchpad on your phone screen, which you can use to navigate. In some simple games swiping across the screen and the back/home buttons can be sufficient as controls.
Pros:
- It is an official Google app
- It is easy to set up, as it will take a few minutes
- This method of using your phone as a controller works with all Android TVs.
Cons:
- Limited functions for gaming
- For more complex games screens generally are not sufficient.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Gamepad Apps
To experience gaming-focused controls, you can use third-party apps that will convert your phone into a gamepad with more buttons and better control options.
The following are common third-party gamepad app options:
- DroidJoy Gamepad Joystick.
- PC Remote.
- Gamepad for Android TV
Follow the procedure below to use the DroidJoy Gamepad Joystick
- Download and install the DroidJoy Gamepad Joystick on your Android phone from the Google Play store.
- Proceed to your Android TV and navigate to Settings > Security & restrictions > Unknown Sources and enable the installation from unknown sources for the app you will use to receive the connections, such as a browser.
- Back at the main screen of your TV, go to the web browser and visit the URL displayed on the Droidjoy app running on your phone.
- On the TV, download and install the DroidJoy Receiver app available.
- Go ahead and open the DroidJoy Receiver app on your TV and the Droidjoy app on your phone.
- Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- On the phone app, tap Scan to see your TV and click on the TV’s name to establish a connection.
- After a successful connection, your Android will now count as a gamepad.
- The app also allows Key mapping for you to move various game buttons to a place where you can comfortably reach.
- You can now use your phone as a gamepad for First-person-shooter and third-person games.
Advantages
- More gaming-focused controls
- Able to customize the button layouts
- Supports for a variety of games
Disadvantages
- Requires additional app installations
- Some apps require you to pay before accessing some of their features
- May be faced with input lag
Method 3: Using Screen Mirroring
A new trick that many people find awesome is using your phone as a controller by mirroring your phone’s display to your Android TV and playing mobile games directly.
Here is how you go and play a mobile game on your Android LED TV:
- Turn on the wireless display mode on your Android TV by going to Settings > Device Preferences > Cast > Enable wireless display.
- Swipe down from the top of your Android phone to reveal the Quick Settings menu.
- Tap on the “Cast” or “Screen mirroring” option or a similar name.
- Your TV will appear on the list. Tap on your TV’s name to connect and mirror your phone on your TV screen.
- Once connected, open a mobile game from your apps and control it with your phone using the trackpad and various buttons on the remote while viewing it on the large screen. Your Android TV uses your phone as a touchpad as soon as it is connected.
Advantages:
- Can be used on any mobile game
- No additional apps required
- Full use of touchpad
Disadvantages:
- The Laggy network will show a lag
- Not all mobile games can be played on the big LED screen.
- Especially, it will chew up your phone’s battery
Tips for Using Your Phone as a Game Controller
In order to get the best experience of using your phone as a gamepad for Android TV, you should consider a few pieces of advice.
- First of all, it is important to keep your phone charged to avoid any lags.
- Second, long-time use of a phone in an inconvenient position can cause hand pain, so you may want to use a stand to prop your phone up.
- Third, to prevent input lag, it is advisable to close all unnecessary apps running in the background on your smartphone. Moreover, you should also make sure that your connection is stable enough.
Do not hesitate to follow these tips, and you will be able to get the most out of your gaming experience.
Games That Work Well with Phone Controllers
Most games can be played with phone controllers, but when it comes to the more convenient way there are some genres that are the best. There are:
- Puzzle games
- Turn-based strategies
- Point-and-click adventures
- Simple platformers
- Racing games, but it will be less convenient cause of the tilt control
- Sports, but not too complicated
Please, don’t forget about checking the game’s description or the reviews to see if the game you chose supports the gamepad case before trying to play using your phone.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
You can encounter some issues even with the right setup. Let’s look at the solutions that one can use to solve the most common problems. They are:
Connection issues:
- Make sure that both your phone and Android TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi.
- Restart your phone and Android TV.
- Check for any restrictions in your network or firewalls.
Lag or delay:
- Close the background apps on your phone.
- Move closer to the Wi-Fi router.
- Use a 5G Wi-Fi if one is available.
App not working:
- Check for app updates.
- Uninstall and reinstall the app.
- Make sure that your Android TV and phone can run the app.
Controlling does not work:
- Check if the game you are trying to play supports gamepad controls.
- Try to recalibrate the gamepad in the settings of the app.
- Restart the game and try connecting your phone again.
FAQs
Can I use my iPhone as a game controller for Android TV?
Yes, while there are certain apps that enable you to control your Android TV using iPhone, the options for gaming would be limited, and in general, it would be easier and more effective to use an Android phone.
2. Do I need to root my phone to use it as a game controller?
No, you do not need to root your phone and the methods described in this guide would work on non-rooted phones.
3. Would using my phone as a controller cause the battery to drain quickly?
Yes, the phone would be drained at a faster pace than regular, especially if you use screen mirroring. Therefore, it is best to play games while your phone is charging.
4. Can I use the phone as a controller for any game on my Android TV?
Not all games can be played using gamepad controls, therefore you should check the game’s description or game settings to see if it supports external controllers.
5. Is there an input lag to be concerned about?
It is possible, especially if your internet connection is slow. Having a fast and stable Wi-Fi connection would help to minimize it.
6. Can I connect multiple phones to the same Android TV to enable multiplayer gaming?
That would depend on the app. Some third-party gamepad apps allow multiple connections, but you would need to check the app for specific features.
7. Do I need to pay for the app to be able to use my phone as a controller?
There are free options available, but apps that provide additional features may require payment.
8. Will that work with all Android TV models?
Most methods work with all Android TV models, but the compatibility could vary, so you should check your TV and specific app requirements.
9. Can I use my phone as a controller for other devices, such as my PC or another game console?
Yes, you can but the methods would be different.
10. Would it be better to use a game controller instead of the phone?
Yes, if you are a serious gamer or playing a game where accurate controls are required, then your phone would not be suitable. However, it is a cheap and convenient way to use a phone controller for casual gaming.
Conclusion
There are several options through which you could connect and use your Android phone as a game controller for your Android TV.
Whether you want to use the official Android TV Remote Control app, a third-party gamepad app or screen mirroring, you now know how to set it up and use your device as a controller for your TV.
Of course, this solution will not work perfectly with all games, especially if you are a serious gamer and require the use of a special controller to be able to control all the buttons and sticks with precision in some games.
However, do try out all the alternative methods of connecting the two devices and find out which one works best for you.
Good luck and happy gaming.
