Just before movie night, my Roku remote abruptly quit working, so I googled for “Setup Roku Without Remote” specifically. I initially believed that Roku could not be used without it. However, after doing some research, I found that there are easy methods to set it up without the remote, such as utilizing the Roku mobile app and Wi-Fi trickery. I was relieved when it worked, and that’s when I learned that a lot of individuals had the same issue. I thus made the decision to disclose the answer.
Why Would a Remote Be Necessary for Roku Setup?
Let’s first examine the causes of this. Life happens, so it’s possible that your dog chewed it up, the batteries in your remote died or you misplaced it while moving. Fortunately, Roku saw this coming. For this reason, they made it incredibly simple to operate your gadget from a computer or smartphone.
Things You Must Have Before Starting
Prior to beginning, ensure that you have:
- An Android or iOS tablet or smartphone
- The Roku app is available for free download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Your Roku device is now switched on.
- Your phone and Roku are linked to the same wireless network.
You are in luck if your Roku was already linked to your home network before you misplaced the remote control! If not, don’t worry; I’ll also explain a solution.
Step 1: Install the Roku mobile app after downloading it.
You have a new best buddy with the Roku app. Your smartphone becomes a fully working Roku remote control thanks to it.
- Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Get the official Roku app by searching for “Roku.”
- If necessary, install it and log in with your Roku account.
Step 2: Link Your Device to the Roku App
After the application has been launched:
- At the bottom of the screen, tap “Devices.”
- The app will look for Roku devices in the area.
- Tap to connect when your Roku device is listed.
- After connecting, press the Remote icon to display a digital remote control on your phone’s screen.
Well done! You now carry around a fully working remote control.
Step 3: Configure Your Roku Using the Mobile Remote
Now that you have your phone’s remote:
- On your Roku, select Settings > Network.
- If you have not already, connect to your home’s wireless network.
- Install channels, login in to your streaming services, and finish any setup tasks using the app remote.
What Happens If Your Roku Is not Wi-Fi Connected?
Alright, this is where things get complicated. You’ll need to set up a temporary hotspot if your Roku is not connected to Wi-Fi and you do not have the remote.
Here’s how:
- Create a mobile hotspot with your laptop or a second smartphone.
- The hotspot should be named with the exact same SSID (Wi-Fi name) and password as the old network to which your Roku was previously connected.
- Turn on your Roku device. It ought to join this new hotspot on its own.
- Additionally, connect your primary smartphone to this hotspot.
- Now launch the Roku app; since they are connected to the same network, it ought to recognize your Roku device.
After connecting, reconnect your Roku to your real Wi-Fi by using the app remote to go to Settings > Network.
Advice for an Easy Setup
- Make sure your phone is charged. Until you obtain a replacement, you will have to use it as your remote.
- Keep your Roku device near at hand. This guarantees that the app and Roku will have a steady connection.
- Purchase a new remote control. Having a real remote control is always useful for visitors or children, even when the mobile app is easy.
Is It Time to Get a New Remote?
Of course! Some folks like the feel of a physical remote control, even though the smartphone app is flawless. You may purchase a universal Roku remote from retailers like Walmart, Best Buy or Amazon, or you can acquire an official Roku replacement remote online. It’s quite simple to pair; simply follow the directions in the package.
Concluding remarks
Hey buddy, you can still stream even if you lose your Roku control. Your favorite TV series and films are only a few taps away with the Roku mobile app. Therefore, do not allow your weekend plans be derailed by a misplaced remote. After downloading the software and configuring your smartphone, you may quickly resume your leisure activities!
Read more: setup xfinity modem ❤️
FAQ’S:
Is a remote control necessary to set up my Roku?
Indeed! If your Roku is Wi-Fi enabled, you may use the free Roku mobile app as a remote control.
Without a remote, how can I connect my Roku to the Internet?
Make use of your phone’s Roku app. Set up a mobile hotspot using the same name and password as your previous Wi-Fi network if Roku isn’t linked to it. It should connect to your Roku automatically.
What store sells the Roku app?
Get it for nothing from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Is the Roku app available for free and safe?
It is completely safe and cost-free to use.
Is it wise to get a new Roku remote control?
It’s a smart backup plan. An authentic Roku remote may be purchased in-store or online.
Roku No-Remote Setup Assistant
Lost your Roku remote? Don’t worry! This step-by-step assistant will guide you through setting up and controlling your Roku using just your smartphone. Get back to streaming in minutes.
This tool adapts to your specific situation. Select your scenario below to get customized, verified instructions based on official Roku methods. Updated for 2026 compatibility.
What’s Your Situation?
My Roku is already on Wi-Fi
Your Roku device was previously connected to your home Wi-Fi network before the remote was lost. This is the quickest solution.
My Roku is NOT connected to any Wi-Fi
Your Roku is brand new or factory reset, and has never been connected to your current network. We’ll use a hotspot trick.
I want to buy a replacement remote
Get recommendations for official and universal remotes, plus pairing instructions once you have it.
Your Step-by-Step Guide
Download the Roku Mobile App
On your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet:
- Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Search for “Roku” and look for the official app by Roku, Inc.
- Download and install the free app.
- Open the app and sign in with your Roku account (or create one if needed).
Note: The app is completely safe, free, and is the official solution from Roku.
Connect the App to Your Roku
Ensure your phone and Roku are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- In the Roku app, tap the “Devices” tab at the bottom.
- The app will automatically scan for Roku devices on your network.
- When you see your Roku device name appear, tap on it to connect.
- Once connected, tap the “Remote” icon. A full-featured digital remote will now appear on your phone’s screen.
Congratulations! You now have full control over your Roku.
Complete Setup & Start Streaming
Use the virtual remote on your phone to:
- Navigate to Settings > Network to verify or change your connection.
- Add channels from the Roku Channel Store.
- Log in to your streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, etc.).
- Adjust display, audio, and other preferences.
Your phone will function as a complete remote replacement until you get a physical one.
Create a Matching Mobile Hotspot
This trick convinces your Roku to connect automatically.
- On a second phone, tablet, or laptop, go to its hotspot or tethering settings.
- Create a mobile hotspot.
- Critical: Name the hotspot (SSID) exactly the same as the Wi-Fi network your Roku was last connected to.
- Also set the password identically to that old network’s password.
- Turn the hotspot on.
Why this works: Roku devices automatically try to reconnect to known networks. By mimicking the old network’s credentials, your Roku will join the hotspot without needing remote input.
Connect Both Devices to the Hotspot
- Power on your Roku device. It should automatically connect to the hotspot you just created.
- On your primary smartphone (the one with the Roku app), connect its Wi-Fi to the same hotspot.
- Now, both your Roku and your phone are on the same temporary network (the hotspot).
Use the App & Reconnect to Real Wi-Fi
- Open the Roku app on your primary phone. It should now find your Roku device in the Devices tab.
- Connect to it and open the virtual remote.
- Using the phone remote, navigate on your Roku to Settings > Network.
- Select your actual home Wi-Fi network and enter its password to connect permanently.
- Once connected, you can turn off the mobile hotspot.
Choose a Replacement Remote
Official Roku Remotes:
- Best compatibility and features (like voice control, private listening).
- Purchase from Roku’s official website, Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart.
- Ensure the model is compatible with your specific Roku player or TV.
Universal Remotes:
- Options from brands like Logitech Harmony can often control Roku.
- Verify Roku compatibility in the product description.
Pair Your New Remote
Once you have the new remote:
- Insert the required batteries.
- Point the remote at your Roku device.
- For official Roku remotes, they often pair automatically. If not, follow the specific pairing instructions in the package (usually involving a button inside the battery compartment).
- Use your phone app remote in the meantime to navigate to Settings > Remotes & devices > Pair remote if manual pairing is needed.
Having a physical remote is a great backup, even if you keep using the convenient app.
Pre-Setup Checklist
Check all items before you start for the smoothest experience:
You’re Ready to Stream!
As highlighted in the source article, a lost remote doesn’t have to ruin your plans. The Roku mobile app is a powerful, official tool that gives you complete control. Use this assistant anytime you need a refresher. Bookmark this page for future reference!