Smart TV Remote Controls: Do You Really Need Them Anymore?

24 January 2025

Remember when misplacing the TV remote was the ultimate household crisis? You'd turn the couch cushions upside down, trace every corner of the house, and debate whether to just give up and stick with the last channel you were on. Fast forward to today, and we're seeing a shift in how we interact with our televisions. Smart TVs have evolved rapidly, and with them, the way we control these devices is transforming too. So, the big question: Do you really need a Smart TV remote control anymore?

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of modern TV tech and explore whether those old-school remotes are becoming obsolete.

The Evolution of TV Remote Controls

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of whether Smart TV remotes are still necessary, it’s worth appreciating how far we've come. Imagine the early days of television, where you actually had to walk up to the TV and turn a dial to change the channel. (Yeah, I know. Totally prehistoric.) Then came the infrared remotes, which allowed you to control your TV from a comfortable distance. Absolute game changer, right?

But today, we’ve entered the era of Smart TVs—televisions that are essentially mini-computers. These TVs can stream Netflix, install apps, connect to your Wi-Fi, and even respond to voice commands. So, naturally, remote controls have had to step up their game… or have they?

Smart TV Remotes: What Are They Offering?

Smart TV remotes are definitely more advanced than the old clickers we used to know. They often come with features like:

- Voice control: Just press a button, speak into the remote, and voila! Your favorite show appears.
- Touch-sensitive surfaces: Some remotes let you swipe and tap, much like a smartphone.
- Dedicated app buttons: Many remotes now have quick-access buttons for apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+.
- Minimalistic design: Gone are the days of remotes with a million buttons. Many Smart TV remotes are sleek, slim, and only give you the essentials.

These features are undeniably cool. But here's the thing—do we even need these remotes when there are so many other ways to control your TV?

Alternatives to Smart TV Remote Controls

In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in alternative ways to interact with Smart TVs. Some of these are so intuitive and convenient that they might make you wonder why you're still bothering with that little plastic remote.

1. Smartphone Apps

Raise your hand if your phone is practically glued to your hand 24/7. Yep, pretty much everyone. So why not use it to control your TV too?

Most Smart TV brands, whether it's Samsung, LG, or Sony, offer companion apps that turn your smartphone into a full-fledged remote control. These apps often come with additional perks like:

- A virtual keyboard: Let’s be real, typing on a traditional remote is the worst. With an app, you can use your phone’s keyboard, making things way quicker and less frustrating.
- Touch navigation: Swipe through menus, tap to select. It feels like you're scrolling through Instagram, but instead, you're browsing your TV's interface.
- Instant control: No more searching for the remote. Your phone is always within arm’s reach.

2. Voice Assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri)

If you’re already using a smart speaker like an Amazon Echo or Google Nest in your home, you’ve got another powerful tool at your fingertips. Voice assistants can now handle a lot of the tasks that your remote once did.

Want to turn on your TV? Just say, "Hey Alexa, turn on the TV." Need to change the channel or adjust the volume? Google Assistant's got you. Even Apple’s Siri can get in on the action if you're in the Apple ecosystem.

What makes this even better is that voice control isn’t tied to a single location. You could be in the kitchen making snacks, and with a quick command, your TV is ready to go by the time you plop down on the couch.

3. Gestures and Motion Control

Now, here’s something that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie—controlling your TV with gestures. Certain Smart TVs (like some models from LG) come with built-in cameras that allow you to wave your hand or point at the screen to select and navigate.

It’s a bit like playing a game of charades with your TV, and while it may not be as refined as other options, it’s undeniably fun and futuristic. Plus, no remote to lose!

4. Universal Remote Controls

If you're juggling multiple gadgets—like a soundbar, gaming console, and Blu-ray player—you might've already picked up a universal remote. These remotes can control everything, including your Smart TV.

Universal remotes often come with app integration, voice control, and programmable buttons, making them even more versatile than standard Smart TV remotes. So, while it’s technically still a remote, it consolidates all your devices into one handy controller.

5. Wearables and Smart Watches

Believe it or not, your smartwatch can also step in as a TV controller. Whether it's an Apple Watch or a Samsung Galaxy Watch, there are apps available that let you change channels, adjust the volume, and even scroll through your favorite streaming services.

It's kind of mind-blowing when you think about it. What used to require a clunky remote can now be done with a flick of your wrist.

The Case for Ditching the Remote

Alright, so we’ve established that there are plenty of alternatives to the traditional Smart TV remote. But should you actually ditch it?

1. Convenience

Let’s face it, the less clutter in your living room, the better. If you’re already using your phone, smartwatch, or voice assistant for everything else, why not extend that to your TV? It’s one less thing to worry about losing or replacing when the batteries die.

2. Better Functionality

The alternatives we’ve discussed—smartphone apps, voice assistants, and wearables—offer far more functionality than the average remote. They’re faster, more intuitive, and often more reliable. Plus, typing on a phone or simply speaking commands is way easier than the old-fashioned click-through system.

3. Future-Proofing

The world of tech moves quickly. TV manufacturers are continuously updating their software, and the trend is moving towards voice and app-based control systems. By embracing these newer methods now, you’re essentially future-proofing your TV experience.

The Case for Keeping the Remote

But before you toss that remote in the junk drawer, let’s not be too hasty. There are still some reasons why you might want to hang onto it.

1. Simplicity

Sometimes, all you want to do is sit down, press a button, and watch TV. No voice commands, no swipes, no fuss. The remote is straightforward and doesn’t require any additional setup. For some people, the simplicity of a regular remote is hard to beat.

2. No Wi-Fi? No Problem

What happens if your Wi-Fi goes down or your voice assistant has a meltdown? The remote doesn’t rely on an internet connection, so it’s always there as a backup plan. It’s like keeping an umbrella in your car. You might not need it most days, but when it rains, you'll be glad you have it.

3. Familiarity

For many, the TV remote is ingrained in daily life. Whether it's your parents, grandparents, or even young kids, the remote is a familiar tool that doesn’t require any tech know-how. Sometimes, sticking with what you know is just easier.

So, Do You Really Need a Smart TV Remote?

Here’s the bottom line: while Smart TV remotes are becoming less essential, they’re not entirely obsolete—yet. The alternatives (smartphone apps, voice assistants, etc.) offer plenty of convenience and added functionality, but there’s still something to be said for the simplicity and reliability of a traditional remote.

For now, it’s not about choosing one or the other. You can easily integrate both into your TV-watching routine. The remote can be your trusty backup while you explore the more advanced control options that modern tech has to offer.

But who knows? In a few years, we might all be controlling our TVs with nothing but our thoughts. Until then, that little remote still has a place on the coffee table.