There’s something wildly inconvenient about losing the TV remote just when your popcorn’s ready and your favourite show’s about to start. I’ve been there—digging through couch cushions, flipping over rugs, even checking the fridge (don’t ask). And if you’re anything like me, owning a Kogan TV means you might not have a universal backup lying around. But hey, don’t panic. You’re not stuck with a big ol’ black screen and regrets.
How to Use a Kogan TV Without a Remote?
You can still use your Kogan TV without a remote by using the built-in physical buttons, downloading a remote app on your smartphone, or connecting external devices like a keyboard or streaming stick. Each method has its quirks, but you’ll be back to binge-watching faster than you can say, “Where’d I leave that remote?”
Where are the Buttons on a Kogan TV?
Kogan doesn’t exactly make a big song and dance about their button placement, which can make things a tad annoying when the remote goes AWOL. But here’s the lowdown…
Most Kogan TVs tuck the buttons underneath the front bezel or along the backside edge of the screen—usually on the right or centre. You’ll often find a mini-joystick or a row of tiny buttons.
These buttons typically include Power, Volume Up/Down, Channel Up/Down, Menu, and Input Source. They’re not always labelled clearly, but with a bit of experimenting (and patience), you’ll figure out the layout.
Example:
I once had a 42-inch Kogan Android model, and the buttons were tucked beneath the bottom right-hand corner. They felt like trying to crack a safe in the dark, but once I got the hang of the click patterns, I could change inputs, crank the volume, and even access the settings menu.
Can You Use a Smartphone as a Kogan TV Remote?
Now we’re talkin’! Your phone, believe it or not, can be your secret weapon here—especially if your Kogan TV supports Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
If your Kogan TV is a smart model (like Android TV or Google TV), you can use apps like Google Home, Android TV Remote, or even the Kogan SmarterHome app to control your TV.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Both your phone and Kogan TV connected to the same Wi-Fi network
- The appropriate app downloaded from the Play Store or App Store
- A little bit of setup time (usually under 5 minutes)
Once connected, your phone works just like a remote—complete with power toggle, volume control, keyboard input, and navigation.
Example:
My brother-in-law lost his remote the second week after buying a 50″ Kogan Android TV. I showed him the Google Home app, and within minutes, he was casting YouTube videos from his phone like a pro—no remote needed.
What if My Kogan TV Isn’t a Smart TV?
Ah, the ol’ “dumb” TV situation. Don’t worry, you’ve still got options, mate.
If your Kogan TV doesn’t connect to Wi-Fi, and you can’t download any apps to sync up, you’ll need to get a bit more hands-on—or plug in something that is smart.
Here are a few solutions that’ve worked for me and others:
- Use the physical buttons (see above)
- Plug in a universal remote (cheap ones go for under $20)
- Connect a device like a Chromecast, Apple TV, or Fire Stick—they come with their own remotes or can be controlled from your phone
Even on a non-smart Kogan TV, plugging in an external smart device gives you full control through that device’s remote or app.
Can You Use a USB Keyboard or Mouse with a Kogan TV?
Believe it or not—yes, in many cases you can! Especially with Android-based Kogan TVs, this trick can be a game changer.
Just grab a regular USB keyboard or mouse (wireless or wired), plug it into a USB port on the TV, and wait a moment.
Most Kogan TVs will recognise the input device and let you navigate menus, type in searches, and select apps or settings using a keyboard or mouse.
Example:
I had an old Logitech wireless keyboard with a USB receiver lying around. Plugged it in, and bam—could navigate my Kogan TV like it was a computer. It felt like I’d just discovered fire.
Can You Change Channels on a Kogan TV Without a Remote?
Yes, you can—but you’ll be doing a bit more thumb gymnastics than usual.
If you’re using the built-in buttons, press the Channel Up/Down buttons on the TV panel to switch between stations. It’s basic, but it works.
If you’re using an app (like Google Home), the process is even smoother. Just tap your way through the interface.
Pro tip: If you’ve got a smart device like a Fire TV Stick, you can just use Alexa voice commands like, “Change to Channel 7” or “Play Netflix.”
Can You Change Input Source Without a Remote?
Yes! And this one’s a lifesaver.
If your remote’s gone walkabout, you can use the physical ‘Input’ or ‘Source’ button on the TV to switch between HDMI, AV, or USB modes.
It might look like a tiny button next to Power or be part of the joystick-style button under the screen. Hold it or tap through the options until you reach the right input.
On smart Kogan TVs, you can also change the input from within the TV’s Settings or Home menu using your phone or keyboard.
Quick Tip:
Using a USB mouse really helps here. Navigating the Home screen is a breeze once you’ve got a pointer instead of just a button mashing strategy.
Can You Access the Settings Menu Without a Remote?
Yup, you’ve got a few workarounds for that too.
The easiest way? Use a keyboard, mouse, or remote app to open the Settings menu from the Home screen.
If you’re using physical buttons only, it’s a bit trickier. Some models let you access the menu by pressing and holding a certain combination of buttons (like Menu + Volume Up).
It’ll take a bit of fiddling, but yes, you can get into the settings even without your original remote.
Are There Remote Apps That Work With All Kogan TVs?
Not quite all—but many.
If your Kogan TV is Android-based, the Google TV app, Android TV Remote, and Google Home app work perfectly. If it’s a newer model that supports Kogan SmarterHome, use that app instead.
If your TV doesn’t support app control, your only route is universal remote apps that require an IR blaster on your phone—which most modern phones don’t have.
So, stick with the official apps for smart models, or use physical solutions for older models.
What If Nothing Works? Can You Buy a Replacement Remote?
If all else fails—yes, you can grab a replacement remote.
Kogan sells official replacement remotes for their TV models directly on their website or through major marketplaces like eBay and Amazon.
Just make sure you grab the correct model number (usually found on the back of the TV). There are also universal remotes that work with most Kogan TVs, and they’ll cost you less than a night at the movies.
Here’s a Handy Table That Sums It All Up:
| Method | Works For Smart TVs? | Works For Non-Smart TVs? | Extra Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Buttons | ✅ | ✅ | Built-in, always available |
| Google Home App | ✅ | ❌ | Needs same Wi-Fi network |
| USB Keyboard/Mouse | ✅ | ⚠️ (Limited Function) | Best with Android models |
| Universal Remote | ✅ | ✅ | Cheap and easy to set up |
| Smart Device (Fire Stick etc.) | ✅ | ✅ | Can use device’s own remote or app |
| Replacement Remote | ✅ | ✅ | Buy direct from Kogan or online shops |
“Losing the remote doesn’t mean you’ve lost control—just means you need to get creative.” – Mazhar
FAQs
Can you use a Kogan TV without the remote at all?
Yes, you can control the TV using its physical buttons, remote apps, USB accessories, or external streaming devices.
Which app works with Kogan TVs?
The Google Home app, Android TV Remote, and Kogan SmarterHome app work on supported models.
Can I turn on my Kogan TV without the remote?
Yes, just press the Power button located on the bottom or back of the TV.
Can I reset my Kogan TV without a remote?
Yes, press and hold specific physical buttons during startup, or use the settings menu if accessible via a keyboard or app.
Can I control volume without the remote?
Yes, the physical Volume Up/Down buttons or app-based volume control will do the trick.
Conclusion
Let’s be honest: losing the remote sucks, but it’s not the end of your Kogan TV’s story. Between the hidden buttons, smartphone apps, and trusty USB gadgets, you’ve got more tools in your belt than you might’ve realised. Whether you’re a smart TV tinkerer or just need to flip to the footy channel on a “dumb” telly, there’s a workaround waiting.
So next time the remote vanishes into the abyss, take a breath, grab your phone or plug in a keyboard, and reclaim the screen. Because in the land of telly, you’re still the boss—remote or not.