The first thing you’ll want to do is download the official Roku app, which may be more tricky than you’d think, as there are unofficial third-party remotes that also exist. The app you’re looking for will be called The Roku App (Official) and can be downloaded on the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Once downloaded, open and log into the app and tap the Remote button at the bottom of the screen to see if your Roku device is listed in the discoverable devices section. If you’re using iOS 14 or higher, make sure to grant Local Network Access when you first start the app.
If your Roku is not in this section, you’ll need to check a few things. First, make sure that your phone and Roku are both on the same Wi-Fi network. Since the Roku app controls the device via Wi-Fi, it’s required that both devices are connected to the same network.
Also, make sure you’re not using a VPN, as that could also cause the app to not work properly. If you’ve lost your remote, but your Roku is, for whatever reason, not connected to Wi-Fi, it’s also possible to connect via ethernet cord on certain models.
