The main alternatives are Google's Google Home app, your TV maker's own app (Sony BRAVIA Connect, for example), NVIDIA's SHIELD TV app for SHIELD owners, and independent apps. One independent option is The Remote: a free Android remote with no ads and no account, plus YouTube search from your phone, YouTube links that play on the TV, TVs by room and a Guest mode.
Google Home: Google's other official remote
Google's help pages say you can use the Google Home app or the Google TV app as a phone remote for Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer. Google Streaming Help It suits homes that already use Google Home for other devices.
Your TV maker's app
Some TV makers have their own remote apps. Sony's BRAVIA Connect controls supported BRAVIA TVs and Sony home-theatre products from your phone. Sony lists the supported models, and says the app needs your Google Account signed in on the TV. Sony: BRAVIA Connect or Google TV app Check your TV maker's support site for its own app.
NVIDIA's SHIELD TV app
If your Android TV is an NVIDIA SHIELD, NVIDIA's SHIELD TV app is a phone remote for it, with a virtual keyboard and mouse. NVIDIA: SHIELD TV remote app
Independent apps, including The Remote
Many independent remote apps work with Android TV and Google TV. Some are free with ads or paid upgrades, so check each listing.
The Remote is free, with no ads, no account and no sign-up. It adds:
- YouTube search typed on your phone, with the results opening on the TV
- YouTube links shared to The Remote, which play on the TV you pick
- TVs named and organised by room
- Guest mode, which limits the remote to navigation, play/pause and volume (hold the TV name for 1 second to exit)
- Larger controls, Easy remote, home-screen widgets and language options
It's Android only (Android 8.0 or later) and installs from our website. Your TV needs Android TV Remote Service v2. That includes Google TV devices that support the Android TV Remote Service, such as Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer. YouTube support depends on the TV's YouTube app version. For a closer comparison, see Google TV app vs The Remote.
Not an alternative: apps for other systems
Fire TV, Roku, Samsung and LG TVs have their own remote apps. Android TV remotes, including The Remote, don't control them. See the Fire TV answer.