Last week, Google announced that the Google Home app has been updated and now supports media devices. Now you can use the app to turn it on or off, control playback, adjust volume, change channels, and choose video input from a variety of smart TVs, streaming devices, and other media. The novelty includes, for example, devices from Samsung, LG and Roku. Previously, the app was already compatible with Android TV and Chromecast.
To add devices to Google Home, you need to install and configure the native app on your phone, such as Smart Things for Samsung devices and LG ThinQ for LG devices. See the detailed guide on how to use Google Home to control compatible devices below. The tutorial was made with a Samsung Smart TV. The process works on Android or iPhone (iOS) smartphones.
How to use the Google Home app as a smart TV remote
Step 1. Open the Google Home app and tap the “+” icon to add a new device;
Step 2. Click on Device Settings and on the next screen, click on Compatible with Google;
The third step. Tap the magnifying glass icon (🔍). On the next screen, enter the name of the service supported by your device (for example, Smart Things for Samsung devices, LG ThinQ for LG devices). Then press the corresponding service;
Step 4. The app will ask you to link the account. Click Continue. After that, the screen of the device’s native application will appear. Authorize Google to control devices. This step may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. In some cases, you will need to log in to the Service before proceeding;
Step 5. The device will appear in the Google Home menu. When you touch the button, it will turn on/off. To control it, hold down the button. On the screen, you can find controls for volume, power on/off, channel change, input selection, and playback control;
Step 6. In addition, it is possible to link the device to the home. To do this, just click on the gear button, and on the next screen, “Add to Start”;
Step 7. Choose from the list an already created house or add a new one. Then press “Next”. On the next screen, tap on Transfer device to confirm the change;
Step 8. Choose an environment for the device and click “Next”. The next screen shows the location of the device. Click again to access device controls.
Ready. Your device is now set up. Now you can use your smartphone as a remote control for a smart TV.
