Apple TV

The Apple TV (3rd generation) needs a functional remote to set up the software Apple TV Remote widget in Control Center.

For the Apple TV (3rd generation), your options are:

• buy a replacement Apple Remote (aluminum) A1294;
• temporarily borrow an Apple Remote (aluminum) to help set up the software remote;
• restore the Apple TV and connect a wireless keyboard to help set up the software remote;
• restore the Apple TV and connect the CiderTV Mac app to help set up the software remote.

Here you go, you already have the ability to use your iPhone as a remote.

Set up the Apple TV Remote on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support