To use TeamViewer on your smartphone, you need to install the correct app for your specific task: the TeamViewer Remote Control app to control another device, or the QuickSupport or Host apps to let someone else control your phone.
What you need to use TeamViewer on your smartphone
TeamViewer offers three distinct mobile apps, and choosing the right one depends on whether you are controlling another device or allowing someone to control your phone. To control a remote computer or another mobile device from your smartphone, install the TeamViewer Remote Control app. To let a supporter remotely control your smartphone, install the TeamViewer QuickSupport app for attended sessions where you must approve each connection. For unattended access to an Android device, where you can connect without the remote user confirming, install the TeamViewer Host app. All connections are secured with 256-bit AES session encoding.
How to control a remote computer from your smartphone
You can control a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer from your iPhone, iPad, or Android phone using the TeamViewer Remote Control app. The steps are nearly identical for both platforms.
- Install the TeamViewer Remote Control app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Open the app and sign in to your TeamViewer account.
- Obtain the Partner ID and password from the remote computer’s TeamViewer software. The ID is displayed in the main window of the desktop app. TeamViewer ID may change if there is new hardware or the operating system has been updated; check the ID before leaving your PC unattended.
- In the Remote Control app, go to the Connect tab, enter the Partner ID, and tap Remote Control.
- Enter the password provided by the remote computer.
- A hand gesture overview appears on your screen. Tap Continue to start the session.
Once connected, you can navigate the remote desktop using touch gestures. On Mac, you must allow access for Screen Recording, Accessibility, and Full Disk Access via System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy tab. On iOS, if your Mac prompts for Screen Recording permission, open System Preferences, unlock the privacy settings, and enable TeamViewer before tapping Continue on your iPhone.
How to receive remote support on your smartphone
If you need someone else to troubleshoot your smartphone remotely, use the QuickSupport app for attended support. This requires you to be present to approve the connection.
- Download and install the TeamViewer QuickSupport app from your device’s app store.
- Open the app and accept the EULA and DPA.
- Share the unique TeamViewer ID displayed in the app with the person providing support.
- When the supporter attempts to connect, your phone will show a prompt. Tap Allow access (or Start now for Android screen sharing, or Start Broadcast for iOS screen sharing) to grant control.
TeamViewer QuickSupport is free for personal use; a valid TeamViewer license is required for professional or commercial use.
How to set up unattended access on Android
For permanent, password-free remote control of an Android device, install the TeamViewer Host app. This allows you to connect without any confirmation from the remote user, but only from the TeamViewer account the device is assigned to.
- TeamViewer Host app for Android requires Android 5.1 or later.
- Install the TeamViewer Host app from Google Play Store.
- Open the app and assign the device to your TeamViewer account.
- To connect, log in to your Computers & Contacts list on a Windows or Mac device, or use the Management Console. Select the device and click Connect.
Unattended access is ideal for managing your own phone or a dedicated device, such as a kiosk or home server.
Mobile-to-mobile connections and limitations
TeamViewer also supports connections between two mobile devices, but with important restrictions. For mobile-to-mobile connections, TeamViewer 12 or a newer version is required. Private users may experience connections limited to five minutes each for mobile-to-mobile connections. Full remote control capabilities on iOS devices are limited; TeamViewer primarily offers screen sharing for iOS, or control of apps that have the TeamViewer Screen sharing SDK integrated. For Android, you can achieve full remote control using the Host app.
Touch gestures and controls on your smartphone
TeamViewer translates standard mouse actions into intuitive touch gestures. After connecting, a gesture guide appears, but here are the essential controls for both platforms:
- Tap to click (left-click).
- Tap and hold for right-click or double-click.
- Two-finger drag to scroll vertically or horizontally.
- Pinch to zoom in or out on the remote screen.
- Double-tap and drag to drag and drop items.
- Activate the keyboard by tapping the keyboard icon in the toolbar to type on the remote computer.
These gestures let you perform complex tasks like navigating menus, selecting text, and managing files. If you need to how to screen mirror Android, the QuickSupport app’s screen sharing feature provides that capability for attended support sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer files between my smartphone and a remote computer using TeamViewer?
Yes, the TeamViewer Remote Control app includes a file transfer feature. During a session, tap the file transfer icon in the toolbar to browse and move files between your smartphone and the remote computer.
Is TeamViewer safe to use on my smartphone?
Yes. TeamViewer uses 256-bit AES session encoding for all connections, and you control access by approving each session (QuickSupport) or assigning devices to your account (Host). Never share your TeamViewer password with untrusted parties.
Why is my TeamViewer mobile session limited to five minutes?
For private, non-commercial users, mobile-to-mobile connections may be capped at five minutes per session. This restriction does not apply to computer-to-mobile connections or licensed commercial accounts.
Can I control an iPhone from an Android phone using TeamViewer?
Yes, but with limitations. You can view the iPhone’s screen via screen sharing, but full remote control is restricted. You can only control iOS apps that have the TeamViewer Screen Sharing SDK integrated.
Do I need a TeamViewer account to use the mobile apps?
For controlling a remote computer, you need to sign in to a TeamViewer account in the Remote Control app. For receiving support via QuickSupport, no account is required, just share your ID. For unattended access with the Host app, you must assign the device to your account.
