Picture this, You’re all set for a relaxing evening, snacks in hand, ready to stream your favorite show. You grab the remote… and it’s nowhere to be found. Suddenly, your TCL TV feels like a giant, silent black mirror.
Before you start turning the house upside down, here’s some good news you can still connect your TCL TV to Wi-Fi without the remote. And it’s not as complicated as it sounds.
1. Turn Your Phone Into a Remote
Most TCL TVs run on Roku TV or Google TV, and both have companion apps that can replace your physical remote.- For Roku TV models: Download the Roku Mobile App from iOS or Android.
- For Google TV/Android TV models: Download the Google TV app or Android TV Remote Service.
Steps:
- Install the right app for your TV type.
- Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network your TV was previously on (or use method #3 first if the TV is offline).
- Open the app, find your TV, and pair it.
- Use the app’s remote interface to navigate to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi and connect.
Pro Tip: If your TV isn’t on any Wi-Fi yet, you can set up a temporary mobile hotspot with the same network name and password your TV used before.
2. Use a USB Keyboard or Mouse
TCL TVs usually have USB ports, meaning you can plug in a USB keyboard or mouse to control the TV.Here’s how:
- Plug your keyboard or mouse into the USB port.
- Use the arrow keys or mouse to navigate the TV menu.
- Go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi, select your network, and enter the password.
3. Go Wired First with an Ethernet Cable
If your TV isn’t online yet and you can’t connect it wirelessly, try the old fashioned route Ethernet.- Plug one end into your TV’s Ethernet port and the other into your router.
- Your TV should connect automatically.
- Once online, use a phone app or keyboard to switch to Wi-Fi from the settings menu.
4. Borrow or Buy a Universal Remote
Sometimes the easiest fix is to get another remote. Universal remotes are affordable and work with most TCL TVs.- Check compatibility before buying.
- Follow the pairing instructions that come with the remote.
- Once paired, head to your TV’s Wi-Fi settings and connect as usual.
5. Try a Game Controller
Here’s a fun twist some TCL TVs support Bluetooth game controllers like Xbox or PlayStation controllers.Steps:
- Connect the controller via USB or Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Use the joystick to navigate the menu.
- Select Wi-Fi settings and connect to your network.
- Avoid the Next Remote Disaster
- Download the companion app on all your household smartphones.
- Enable voice control if your TV supports it.
- Keep a spare remote in a safe spot (trust me, future you will thank you).
Final Word
Losing your TCL TV remote doesn’t have to ruin your night. Whether you use your phone, a keyboard, an Ethernet cable, or even a game controller, getting your TV back online is just a few steps away.So, the next time your remote decides to vanish, you’ll have a whole arsenal of backup plans no hunting under the couch required.