Lost the remote before you even got through setup, or ordered a Firestick separately from a remote? You can still get through the entire setup process using just your phone.

What You’ll Need

  • A smartphone with the free Fire TV app installed (available for iOS and Android)
  • Your phone connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to use for the Firestick, at least temporarily via mobile hotspot if needed

How to Set Up Using the Fire TV App

  1. Plug in your Firestick and turn on your TV to the correct HDMI input. You’ll see an on-screen prompt to pair a remote or use the Fire TV app.
  2. Open the Fire TV app on your phone. It should automatically detect nearby Firesticks in setup mode.
  3. Select your device from the list in the app to connect to it.
  4. Use the app’s on-screen directional pad and keyboard to complete setup, including connecting to Wi-Fi and signing into your Amazon account — typing with your phone’s keyboard is much faster than the remote anyway.

Using the App as Your Permanent Remote

The Fire TV app isn’t just for setup — it includes a full directional pad, voice search button, playback controls, and keyboard, so it works as a complete remote replacement if you never get around to buying a physical one. It does require your phone and Firestick to stay on the same Wi-Fi network to work.

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