Smart TVs are everywhere, but few people realize how much more they can do beyond streaming. I was one of them too, until I stumbled upon a few apps that completely changed the way I use my TV.
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Transfer or receive files wirelessly to phone or PC
Transferring files to your TV can be useful for various reasons. Maybe you want to sideload an app or view vacation photos and videos. In these cases, there’s no need to use cables or external storage.
You can transfer all these files wirelessly using an app like LocalSend. All you have to do is install the app on both devices and connect them to the same Wi-Fi network. Once complete, you can transfer files to your TV from your Android, iPhone, PC, or even Mac.
Download: LocalSend (Free)
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Mirror phone or PC screen wirelessly
If you’ve ever wished your phone screen could be bigger, your smart TV can make that dream a reality. With screen mirroring, you can display everything from your phone or PC directly on the big screen wirelessly. This can be useful for making presentations, enjoying games, or even using your TV as a second screen.
Depending on your TV model, you may be able to mirror your screen without any additional apps. To mirror a Windows PC, your TV needs to support Miracast. To mirror an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, it needs AirPlay support. If it’s an Android TV, you can use the Google TV app to cast your screen wirelessly.
If you run into any compatibility issues, AirScreen is a free app that can help you mirror nearly any device to your TV.
Download: AirScreen (Free, in-app purchases)
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Run an internet speed test
There is never a good time for your home Wi-Fi to go down, but it happens. When it does, you don’t need to scramble for your phone or tablet just to check your connection. Your smart TV can handle it too.
Apps like Internet Speed Test or Speedtest by Ookla let you measure your download and upload speeds, as well as ping, right from your TV. This makes it easy to figure out whether the problem is with your Wi-Fi or the streaming service you are using.
These tests are also useful when everything seems to be buffering or running slowly. Running an internet speed test directly on your TV can quickly show whether your router needs a reset, your network is overloaded, or if it’s time to call your internet provider.
Download: Internet Speed Test (Free, in-app purchases)
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Remap remote buttons
Most smart TV remotes come with shortcut buttons for popular apps like Netflix, YouTube, or Disney+. The problem is, not all of those shortcuts may be useful to you. On my TCL TV remote, for example, a couple of buttons rarely get touched. The good news is you can put them to work by remapping them to launch the apps or actions you use most.
With apps such as Button Mapper, you can assign new functions to those otherwise wasted shortcuts. For instance, if you never touch the Prime Video button, you can reassign it to launch your favorite streaming service instead. You can further customize keys like Home or Volume. A double-press or long-press can trigger your voice assistant, toggle a setting, or open an app instantly.
Download: Button Mapper (Free, in-app purchases)
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Make video calls
One surprisingly useful way to use your smart TV is for video calling. It feels great to chat with family or colleagues on the big screen without holding a phone in hand. And if your TV doesn’t have a built-in camera, you can simply plug in an external webcam to get started.
The exact app you need will depend on your TV model. On Apple TV, you can use FaceTime to call friends and family directly. On Android TVs, apps like Google Meet or Zoom make it easy to host or join meetings without needing another device. It all depends on your TV’s model and the operating system it’s running.
Download: Google Meet (Free)
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Show phone notifications
While watching TV, you will likely set your phone aside, but what if you still want to keep an eye on important alerts? With the TV Overlay Remote app, you can mirror your Android phone’s notifications directly on your smart TV.
Getting started is straightforward. Install the app on both your TV and phone, then grant the necessary permissions. Both devices also need to be on the same Wi-Fi. Once set up, all of your phone notifications, including calls, will appear on the big screen.
You can fine-tune the experience by disabling notifications from less useful apps, adjusting how long alerts stay visible, and even customizing how they appear. This way, you do not have to miss a message or call while enjoying your favorite show or movie.
Download: TV Overlay Remote (Free, in-app purchases)
When you think of a smart TV, streaming content is probably the first thing that comes to mind. But with the help of third-party apps, it can do so much more—from transferring files and mirroring devices to running internet speed tests and even making video calls.
