Can you operate a TV remotely over the internet?

Gobsh

My mum is 88 and lives 85 miles away

She has WiFi but can't navigate TV outside typing in channel numbers.

I'm wondering whether there is any facility yet so you can operate a TV remotely over the internet to operate things like Netflix, Amazon video,etc. Obviously you would need video feedback so you can see what's happening. I would be happy to buy a TV that supports this

Can you operate a TV remotely over the internet?

flaneurs_lobster

My newish TV runs Fire TV, any channel/programme can be called up by voice (including those on the usual streaming apps). Volume, brightness etc also voice-controlled. I'm sure the same facility is available on other TV OSs. 

Any chance that your mother could work with this?

Grumpy_chap

My TV links to Amazon Alexa.  It does a lot via the Echo Speaker and some functions via the Alexa app on the phone.

It may be possible to do more via the app using routines but I found it a bit of a gimmick and never set anything up.

Does your Mum want and need all features or would a simplified remote control be a consideration?

elsien

Does she want Netflix or Amazon video? 

john1

There is are devices with monthly subscription this extract from Google AI  no knowledge personally but it may help
Jubilee is avaliable from Amazon 

TV control From Anywhere (Over the Internet)

Controlling a TV from a different location requires a specialized solution because standard TV apps generally only work on the local network. 

Specialized Hardware (e.g., JubileeTV, Broadlink): Devices exist that bridge the gap, allowing you to send commands over the internet.

JubileeTV is a platform designed to help caregivers remotely manage a TV for elderly loved ones. It plugs into the TV via HDMI and provides full control from a smartphone app over the internet, including the ability to see what's on the screen in real time.

Wi-Fi IR Blasters like the Broadlink RM4 Pro connect to your home Wi-Fi and can "learn" commands from your original remote. These devices can often be controlled remotely via their own mobile apps, which then send the IR signal to the TV.

Advanced DIY/Home Automation: For tech-savvy users, setting up a home automation system with an IP camera and an IR blaster can provide remote access, but this typically requires more technical knowledge

Gobsh

You would need some sort of feedback from the TV to navigate it. Maybe in a couple years we will have such a TV

elsien

Would that not mean that the mother has to phone the OP every time she wants to change platforms? 

MyRealNameToo

Logitec Harmony Hub - was amazing, discontinued in 2022 and as of this year stopped people creating new accounts from what I read and will at some point kill it... hopefully not soon as still use mine heavily

Broadlink in principle is similar, though lacks bluetooth for some devices, but dont know if it can be used remotely like the Harmony could. 

Sofabatton is the nearest replacement for the full Harmony experience but they dont  support control outside of the network. In principle that could be fixed with VPN but thats probably more faff than wanted. 

Logitec stopped their products because they said built in capabilities were making them redundant but the ones I've tried are only in the same network, though again maybe fixable with VPN

john1

The product is US origin however a review from uk found it works 
s ok but you need US Zip code and payment in us $  see here whichthe suppliers help with 

john1

You would need some sort of feedback from the TV to navigate it. Maybe in a couple years we will have such a TV

Would that not mean that the mother has to phone the OP every time she wants to change platforms? 

The description onthe amazon page i think covers most applications Youtube also has promotional video