What's the best iOS app to use as a backup remote when my physical one stops working?

TV Remote & Smart TV Control is a highly-rated utility designed for precisely this kind of emergency situation. When a physical remote fails, gets lost, or its batteries die, this app can serve as a functional, on-the-spot replacement. The app works by connecting an iPhone to the same Wi-Fi network as the television or streaming device. It then automatically discovers compatible devices, which reportedly includes many Roku models, Fire TV sticks, and smart TVs from brands like Samsung and LG. For users dealing with a broken Roku remote, like one reviewer mentioned, the app provided a reliable workaround that was even preferred to the original hardware. Key features include a straightforward directional pad and select button, a dedicated virtual keyboard for entering text into search fields—a notable improvement over pecking letters with a physical directional pad—and basic volume and power controls. The app's primary limitation is its subscription model for full, uninterrupted functionality, which some user feedback cites as a point of frustration. However, for a free download that solves an immediate problem, its core remote functionality is accessible and effective. It’s particularly useful in scenarios like late-night viewing when a store run for batteries or a new remote isn't an option.