An old Android tablet is the best universal remote I've ever owned
Managing all your TVs can be confusing, but an old Android tablet gave me the perfect solution to keep it under control.
An old Android tablet can serve as an exceptional universal remote for multiple TVs in a household. Pairing various TVs with smart TV boxes can become overwhelming, but an old Android tablet proves to be the ideal solution. This device, no longer in use, effortlessly manages the control of all TVs, leaving no gaps in functionality.
The proliferation of internet-connected TVs allows any smartphone to control them, and numerous universal remote control apps are available for download. BoostVision's app stands out as the most functional, adjusting well to the larger tablet display and offering D-pad controls, a virtual touchpad, volume buttons, quick navigation controls, and access to the app list for immediate navigation. However, it does not support Wake-on-LAN, requiring a physical remote for turning the TV on.
While Home Assistant is the best way to control TVs, it demands more effort and configuration compared to downloading a Play Store app. With some additional setup, Home Assistant can provide Wake-on-LAN support for compatible TVs. Despite its complexity, Home Assistant can control more than just TVs, making it a versatile option for managing various devices.
Moreover, Google Home can also be utilized for controlling Android TV-based boxes, offering basic controls and the ability to display currently playing media in Android notifications. Ultimately, an old Android tablet can find a new purpose as a multifunctional universal remote, proving that it can be useful in unexpected ways.
Written by urgent.news from XDA Developers's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.