How To Control & Use Insignia TV Remote App [9 Easy Steps]

Controlling your TV without searching for the remote is now easier than ever. If you own an Insignia Smart TV, you might already know how frustrating it can be when the remote goes missing, the batteries die, or certain buttons stop working. That’s where the Insignia TV Remote App comes in handy. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Insignia TV remote app what it is, how it works, how to set it up, compatible devices, best alternatives, and how to troubleshoot common issues.

Table of Contents

1. What Is the Insignia TV Remote App?

The Insignia TV Remote App is a mobile application that lets you control your Insignia Smart TV directly from your smartphone or tablet. Instead of juggling a physical remote, the app turns your mobile device into a virtual remote control, offering the same (and sometimes even better) functionality as your traditional remote. Depending on your TV model, this app can be downloaded from Google Play Store or Apple App Store and works either via Wi-Fi or infrared (IR), depending on your device type.

Main Purposes

Control Insignia TV volume, input source, and channels
Navigate menus and streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, or YouTube
Replace or supplement your physical remote
Simplify your home entertainment experience

Read More: Hisense TV Problems

2. Types of Insignia TVs Supported

Before installing the app, it’s essential to know whether your TV model is compatible. Insignia offers different types of TVs, and their compatibility depends on the operating system they run.

a. Insignia Fire TV Edition

These TVs are powered by Amazon’s Fire TV OS. You can use:

Amazon Fire TV App (official Amazon app)
Insignia Remote App for Fire TV

The Fire TV app supports voice control through Alexa, quick navigation, and keyboard input.

b. Insignia Roku TV

These TVs run on Roku OS. You can use:

Roku Official Remote App
Third-party Insignia remote apps compatible with Roku

This app lets you browse channels, use voice search, and cast photos or videos from your phone to your TV.

c. Non-Smart Insignia TVs

If your TV isn’t smart, you can still control it with:

Universal remote apps that use the phone’s infrared (IR) blaster
Examples include Universal TV Remote Control, Mi Remote, or Sure Universal Remote

3. How to Download and Set Up the Insignia TV Remote App

The setup process depends on your TV’s operating system and your smartphone type (Android or iPhone). Here’s how you can do it step-by-step.

Step 1: Check Compatibility

Make sure your Insignia TV and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
If your phone has an IR blaster, Wi-Fi is not required for basic remote functions.

Step 2: Download the App

For Fire TV Edition:

Open Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Search for Amazon Fire TV App or Insignia Fire TV Remote.
Tap Install and wait for the download to complete.

For Roku TV Edition:

Open the App Store or Play Store.
Search for Roku Remote App.
Download and install the official app.

For Non-Smart TVs:

Search for Universal Remote for Insignia TV or Sure Universal Remote.
Install one that supports IR or Wi-Fi control.

Step 3: Connect the App to Your TV

Launch the app.
Allow necessary permissions (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth).
The app will automatically detect your Insignia TV on the network.
Select your TV from the list.
You might be prompted to enter a code shown on your TV screen to confirm pairing.

Once paired, your phone is ready to act as a full-function remote.

4. Key Features of the Insignia TV Remote App

The app is designed to replicate everything a physical remote does and more. Here’s a breakdown of its main features:

1. Full Remote Controls

You can power the TV on/off, adjust volume, change channels, or navigate input sources directly from your phone.

2. Voice Commands

If you’re using the Fire TV or Roku edition, you can press the mic icon to control your TV using voice commands like:

“Open Netflix.”
“Turn up the volume.”
“Play Stranger Things.”

3. On-Screen Keyboard

Typing long search queries or login credentials becomes easier with a full mobile keyboard.

4. App Navigation

Access and launch apps like Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, or Disney+ right from your phone.

5. Private Listening

For Roku TV users, this feature allows you to plug in headphones to your phone and hear your TV audio privately perfect for late-night viewing.

6. Multi-Device Support

You can connect the app to multiple Insignia TVs in your home and switch between them easily.

7. Touchpad Controls

Some versions include a touchpad that lets you swipe through menus just like a smart remote.

8. Screen Casting

Share your photos, videos, or even your mobile screen directly to your Insignia TV.

5. Advantages of Using the Insignia TV Remote App

a. Convenience

You no longer have to search for the remote every time it’s lost under the couch. Your smartphone is always within reach.

b. Cost-Effective

Replacing an Insignia remote can cost between $20–$40. The app is free.

c. Modern Features

Features like voice control, private listening, and app navigation make it more advanced than traditional remotes.

d. Eco-Friendly

No need for batteries your phone does the job.

e. Perfect for Multiple Users

Family members can all download the app and control the same TV without fighting over one remote.

6. Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Like any smart device, the app might face occasional glitches. Below are common issues and their fixes:

1. App Can’t Find the TV

Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Restart your router and TV.
Disable any VPN on your phone.

2. App Disconnects Frequently

Update the app to the latest version.
Turn off battery optimization for the app.
Avoid switching networks mid-use.

3. Buttons Not Working

Re-pair the app with your TV.
Check if your TV’s software is updated.
Reinstall the app if necessary.

4. Delay or Lag

Use a stable 5GHz Wi-Fi connection for faster response.
Close background apps to free memory.

5. No Sound in Private Listening Mode (Roku)

Check headphone connection.
Adjust phone volume.
Restart the app.

7. Alternative Apps for Insignia TVs

If you prefer exploring other remote options, here are reliable alternatives depending on your TV type:

For Fire TV Models

Amazon Fire TV App
CetusPlay Remote
Unified Remote

For Roku Models

Official Roku App
Yatse Remote Control
AllCast

For Non-Smart Models

Mi Remote Controller (Xiaomi)
Universal Remote for Insignia TV
Sure Universal Smart TV Remote

These apps are available on both Android and iOS platforms and work similarly, offering navigation, input control, and app shortcuts.

8. Tips for the Best Experience

Always update both your TV firmware and the app to the latest versions.
Keep your Wi-Fi signal strong by placing your router near the TV.
Use screen mirroring or casting for a seamless entertainment setup.
If you have multiple Insignia TVs, rename each TV in your app for easy control.
For kids or guests, create a guest profile if the app allows it to avoid accidental settings changes.

Read More: Hisense TV Error Code 003

9. Troubleshooting Connectivity and Pairing

If you’re unable to pair your phone with the TV, try these steps:

Restart both devices.
Ensure the TV is connected to the same network as your phone.
Go to Settings → Network → About on your TV to verify the network name.
If your TV doesn’t appear in the app, manually enter the IP address (available in TV settings).
If all else fails, uninstall and reinstall the app.

For IR-based apps, ensure that:

Your phone has an IR blaster (not all do).
The IR emitter on your phone is pointed directly at the TV’s IR receiver.

Insignia TV Remote App FAQs

Q: Is there an official Insignia TV remote app?

Yes, depending on your model. For Fire TV editions, use the Amazon Fire TV App; for Roku editions, use the Roku Remote App.

Q: Can I use my phone as a remote without Wi-Fi?

Yes, if your phone has an IR blaster. Otherwise, a Wi-Fi network connection is required.

Q: Which phones support IR control for Insignia TVs?

Phones like Xiaomi, Huawei, and some Samsung models have built-in IR blasters. iPhones do not.

Q: Why can’t my app detect my TV?

Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network, disable VPNs, and check if your TV’s network visibility is enabled.

Q: Can I turn on my Insignia TV using the app?

Yes, but only if your TV supports Wake-on-LAN and is connected to the same Wi-Fi. Otherwise, you’ll need to use the TV’s power button.

Q: Is the Insignia TV remote app free?

Yes, all official and most third-party remote apps are free to download and use.

Q: Can I use voice commands with the Insignia remote app?

Yes, Fire TV and Roku remote apps support voice search and commands using your phone’s microphone.

Q: What if my Insignia remote app keeps disconnecting?

Restart your router, disable phone power-saving settings, and make sure your network is stable.

Q: How do I control multiple Insignia TVs from one app?

Most remote apps allow multi-device pairing. You can add several TVs and switch between them easily within the app.

Q: Can I cast content from my phone to my Insignia TV using the app?

Yes. Roku and Fire TV apps support casting or mirroring photos, videos, and music directly to the TV screen.

Conclusion

The Insignia TV Remote App is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to control your TV without the need for a physical remote. Whether you own a Fire TV Edition, Roku Edition, or even a standard Insignia TV, there’s an app that can make your life easier. From seamless navigation and voice commands to private listening and instant casting, the convenience is hard to ignore.

Pillar Post:

Jackbox on Roku