Remote Sunrise makes Remote Control for TV. This page compares it with Apple’s built-in Apple TV Remote in Control Center.
Short Answer
Use Apple TV Remote in Control Center when you only need Apple’s built-in remote for Apple TV or supported AirPlay-compatible smart TVs.
Use Remote Control for TV when you want one app for Apple TV plus Samsung, LG, Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, Google TV, Hisense, and Vizio, with saved devices, app launching, widgets, Apple Watch, Mac, and Siri Shortcuts where supported.
Last updated: May 7, 2026.
Feature Comparison
| Feature or Need | Remote Control for TV | Apple TV Remote in Control Center |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Universal TV remote app | Built-in Apple TV remote |
| Apple TV HD / Apple TV 4K | Yes | Yes |
| Apple TV 3rd generation | Use Apple’s built-in remote path | Yes, per Apple support |
| AirPlay-compatible smart TVs | Supports many TV platforms through app setup | Yes, when added to Home and assigned to a room |
| Samsung, LG, Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, Hisense, Vizio | Yes, supported platforms | No general multi-brand remote path |
| App launching | Yes, where supported by saved device | Apple TV-focused controls |
| Apple Watch | Yes, app support for saved TVs | Apple documents Apple Watch remote use for Apple TV |
| Mac TV remote | Yes | No Control Center remote on Mac for general TV control |
| Widgets and Siri Shortcuts | Yes, for supported saved-device actions | Built into iOS Control Center |
| Best fit | Multi-brand TV homes | First-party Apple TV control |
Choose Remote Control for TV When
- You have Apple TV plus other TV brands or streaming platforms.
- You want a dedicated saved-device list for multiple rooms.
- You want Apple Watch, Mac, widgets, and Siri Shortcuts in one app.
- You need Samsung or Android TV custom app launchers.
- You want one remote app for the whole living room.
Choose Apple TV Remote in Control Center When
- You only need Apple TV control.
- You prefer Apple’s built-in first-party remote.
- You need the quickest no-install fallback on iPhone or iPad.
- You have an AirPlay-compatible smart TV already set up in the Home app.
- You are troubleshooting and want to compare against Apple’s built-in control path.
Setup Differences
| Setup Topic | Remote Control for TV | Apple TV Remote in Control Center |
|---|---|---|
| Install | App Store app | Built into iPhone and iPad Control Center |
| Pairing | App-guided device setup | Apple TV or smart TV selection in Control Center |
| Smart TV setup | Brand-specific guides | AirPlay-compatible smart TV must be in Home |
| Troubleshooting | App support and TV platform guides | Apple support flow |
Comparison Basis
- Remote Control for TV product documentation and App Store metadata, checked May 7, 2026.
- Apple: set up Apple TV Remote on iPhone or iPad.
- Apple: use iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch as a remote for Apple TV.
FAQ
Is Remote Control for TV affiliated with Apple?
No. Remote Control for TV is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Apple.
Can I use both remotes?
Yes. Keep Apple TV Remote in Control Center for Apple TV and use Remote Control for TV for multi-brand TV control.