YouTube has introduced a new feature that allows viewers to use their smartphones as a companion controller when watching YouTube on a connected TV. The update makes it much easier to interact with videos, browse content and manage playback without relying on a traditional TV remote.
The new functionality is designed to improve the viewing experience as more users choose to watch YouTube on large-screen televisions.
Turn Your Phone into a YouTube TV Controller
With the latest update, users can connect their mobile device to YouTube running on a compatible smart TV or connected streaming device.
Once connected, the phone acts as a companion controller, allowing viewers to perform many actions that are often difficult using a standard remote control.
This creates a smoother experience without interrupting the video playing on the television.
Easier Access to Interactive Features
Using a smartphone makes it much simpler to interact with YouTube while watching content on TV.
Users can now:
- Read video descriptions.
- Like videos.
- Leave comments.
- Subscribe to channels.
- Browse recommended content.
- Search for new videos.
- Watch YouTube Shorts.
- Queue videos to play on the TV.
Typing comments and searching for videos becomes much faster using a phone keyboard compared to navigating with a remote.
Send Videos Directly to Your TV
The update also makes it easier to transfer videos from your phone to your television.
When browsing YouTube on a mobile device, users can simply select the “Play on different device” option to send a video directly to their connected TV.
This allows viewers to continue discovering content on their phone while enjoying videos on the larger screen.
No Shared Wi-Fi Requirement
One of the most convenient improvements is that users no longer need to manually pair devices or be connected to the same Wi-Fi network to use many of the companion features.
This simplifies the setup process and makes switching between devices much more seamless.
The easier connection process allows more viewers to take advantage of YouTube’s interactive features without additional configuration.
Supporting the Growth of Connected TV
Watching YouTube on televisions has become one of the platform’s fastest-growing viewing habits.
Millions of people now consume YouTube content through smart TVs every day, making Connected TV (CTV) an increasingly important part of YouTube’s strategy.
In response, YouTube has continued expanding TV-focused features, including:
- Improved podcast viewing.
- AI-powered search tools.
- TV-style content channels.
- Enhanced account management.
- Companion mobile controls.
These updates aim to deliver an experience that combines the comfort of television viewing with the flexibility of mobile interaction.
Why This Matters for Creators
The improved viewing experience may also benefit creators.
By making it easier for viewers to subscribe, comment and engage while watching on television, YouTube reduces many of the barriers that previously limited interaction on large-screen devices.
Greater engagement can help creators build stronger communities while encouraging more active participation from TV audiences.
Looking Ahead
As connected TVs become one of YouTube’s fastest-growing platforms, the company continues investing in features that bridge the gap between mobile devices and television viewing.
The new smartphone companion controls provide a more convenient and interactive experience, allowing viewers to enjoy YouTube on the big screen without sacrificing the functionality normally available on mobile devices.
For both viewers and creators, the update represents another step towards making YouTube’s TV experience more connected, engaging and user-friendly.
