Remote Control for Sky/Directv

Control Your Sky or DirecTV Box with Your Phone Using Remote Control for Sky/Directv

The Remote Control for Sky/Directv app transforms your smartphone into a fully functional remote for your satellite receiver. This official application allows users to navigate their entertainment system directly from a mobile device, providing a convenient alternative to a physical remote. It is designed specifically for subscribers of these services, enabling seamless channel surfing, on-demand browsing, and system management. The primary value of the Remote Control for Sky/Directv is its convenience, offering control when the original remote is misplaced and providing an intuitive second screen experience for discovering new content.

Navigating the On-Screen Program Guide

The app provides full access to the electronic program guide (EPG) directly on your phone's display. Users start by opening the Remote Control for Sky/Directv app and ensuring their phone is on the same Wi-Fi network as their receiver. The guide is then displayed, showing current and upcoming programs across all channels. By scrolling vertically, users can browse through time slots, and horizontal scrolling changes the channel list. Tapping on any program listing provides a detailed description, and selecting a future show allows users to set a reminder or series link, integrating fully with the set-top box's recording features.

Managing Your Personal Video Recorder (PVR)

This function puts complete control of your recorder in your hand. Within the Remote Control for Sky/Directv interface, users navigate to the 'Planner' or 'My Recordings' section. This screen displays all scheduled and completed recordings. Users can play a recorded program by tapping on its title, which sends the command to the TV. To manage space, they can long-press on a recording to bring up a menu options to delete it or change its keep settings. The workflow is streamlined for browsing a library of content and deciding what to watch without interrupting the live TV broadcast on the main screen.

Browsing and Searching the Content Library

Finding something to watch is simplified through robust search and category filters. Users open the Remote Control for Sky/Directv app and select the ‘Search’ magnifying glass icon. They can then use the smartphone’s keyboard to type in a show title, actor name, or genre, which is often faster than using an on-screen keyboard with a physical remote. The app returns results from live TV, on-demand services, and the PVR. Alternatively, users can browse curated categories like ‘Movies,’ ‘Sports,’ or ‘Kids’ to discover new content. Selecting any result changes the channel or launches the on-demand player directly.

Using the Touchpad for Cursor Control

Many modern set-top boxes feature cursor-driven menus, which this app replicates with a touchpad. When the on-screen interface requires a cursor, a touchpad area appears within the Remote Control for Sky/Directv app. Users move an on-screen pointer by dragging their finger across this touchpad, simulating a computer trackpad. A single tap performs a ‘select’ action, while a two-finger tap can often function as a ‘back’ or ‘menu’ command. This is particularly useful for navigating smart TV hubs, built-in apps like Netflix, and web browsers on supported receivers, providing precise control.

Operating Basic Remote Functions

The core functionality of any remote is replicated clearly within the app. The main screen of the Remote Control for Sky/Directv displays a familiar button layout, including volume controls, a numeric keypad, and navigation arrows. Users press these digital buttons just as they would physical ones, with each tap sending an infrared signal via Wi-Fi to the receiver. The ‘OK’ or ‘Select’ button is central for confirming choices. Dedicated buttons for ‘Home,’ ‘Guide,’ ‘Info,’ and ‘Back’ provide quick shortcuts to essential functions, ensuring all standard operations are easily accessible from a single, organized screen.

Setting Parental Controls and System Settings

The app allows for detailed management of account and parental settings away from the television screen. Users access these features by navigating to the ‘Settings’ or ‘Options’ menu within the Remote Control for Sky/Directv application. Here, they can set or change a parental lock PIN, adjust the resolution output, or check network status. The process involves scrolling through the menu options, selecting the desired setting, and inputting changes using the phone’s keyboard. This workflow enables users to configure their system preferences without having to navigate through on-screen menus that may be visible to others in the room.