Before you can connect your Vizio TV to Wi-Fi using your phone, ensure you have the necessary TV model, network credentials, and a compatible smartphone.
Compatible Vizio Smart TV Models
Your Vizio TV must be a smart TV that supports Wi-Fi and remote management. Most Vizio Smart TVs manufactured after 2016 come with these features.
Consult your TV's manual or the Vizio support website to confirm whether your model supports Wi-Fi connectivity and remote operation via mobile devices.
Required Wi-Fi Network Credentials
You must have access to your Wi-Fi network credentials to establish a connection. This includes:
- Network name (SSID): The unique identifier for your Wi-Fi network.
- Password: The security key to access your network.
Maintain the confidentiality of your network credentials for security purposes.
Smartphone Compatibility and Requirements
To use your phone as a remote for connecting your Vizio TV to Wi-Fi, ensure the following:
- Smartphone OS: Either Android or iOS, with the latest operating system updates installed.
- App Installation: Download and install a Vizio remote app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Infrared (IR) Blaster (for some applications): Only required if the app you choose functions via IR signals. Note that newer smartphones may not have an IR blaster.
Check if your smartphone meets these requirements and prepare it accordingly for the setup process.
Setting Up the Vizio TV for Wi-Fi Connection
To connect your Vizio TV to Wi-Fi using your phone, ensure that the television is powered on and that you have access to the network settings within the TV's menu.
You will then need to select the Wi-Fi option to initiate the connection process.
Turning on the Vizio TV
Power on your Vizio TV by pressing the Power button on your TV or the remote control. If your remote is not available, most Vizio TVs have a physical Power button located on the side or back of the TV unit.
Accessing the Network Settings
Once your TV screen is active, press the Menu button on the remote.
Navigate to the Network section of the menu using the arrow keys. This is where you will find options related to your TV's internet connectivity.
Selecting the Wi-Fi Option
In the Network settings, scroll down to the option that reads Wi-Fi or Wireless and press OK on your remote.
Your TV will now display a list of available Wi-Fi networks. Select your home network, enter the correct password using the on-screen keyboard, and then select Connect to establish a Wi-Fi connection.
Connecting to Wi-Fi Through a Phone
Establishing a Wi-Fi connection with your Vizio TV via a phone involves specific steps.
Commence by utilizing the Vizio SmartCast Mobile App. Ensure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network to which you wish to connect the TV. Lastly, perform necessary actions directly on your Vizio TV to finalize the setup.
Using Vizio SmartCast Mobile App
Download the Vizio SmartCast Mobile App from your phone's app store. Once installed, open the app and create an account or sign in.
Use this app to control your Vizio TV and navigate to the network settings within the app to initiate a Wi-Fi connection.
- Launch the Vizio SmartCast Mobile App.
- Sign in or create a new Vizio account.
- Select your Vizio TV from the list of available devices.
- Navigate to network settings to start the Wi-Fi setup process.
Connecting the Phone to the Same Wi-Fi Network
For the Vizio SmartCast Mobile App to function correctly, your phone must be on the same Wi-Fi network as your Vizio TV.
Access the Wi-Fi settings on your phone and connect to the Wi-Fi network you intend to use for the TV.
- Wi-Fi Settings on Phone: Connect to the appropriate network by entering the Wi-Fi password, making sure to pay attention to upper and lower case sensitivity and special characters.
Finalizing the Connection on Vizio TV
Once the preliminary setup is done through your phone, complete the Wi-Fi connection on your Vizio TV.
Navigate to the TV's network settings to confirm or finalize the Wi-Fi connection.
- Vizio TV Network Settings: Use the SmartCast Mobile App or the TV's built-in buttons to access the menu.
Connect to the chosen Wi-Fi network by following on-screen prompts.