How to add or remove Apps to Vizio TV without the “V” Button?

Managing apps on a Vizio TV without the “V” button can be tricky, especially if your remote doesn’t have this feature. For most Vizio TVs from 2016 and newer that use the SmartCast platform, you cannot manually add or remove apps. This is because apps are built into the TV and updated automatically through the cloud.

However, if you have an older Vizio TV that uses the VIA or VIA+ platform, you can add or remove apps by opening the app menu in a different way. For example, try pressing the Home button twice on your remote. Keep in mind, though, that you may not be able to remove every app, since some do not have a delete option.

The method to install apps on a Vizio TV without the V button depends on the type of TV you have. Vizio TVs can be grouped into four main categories:

1. VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA)

These TV models were produced before 2013. You can install apps directly from the Vizio TV Store.

1.1. Add Apps on a VIA TV

1. Connect your TV to the internet, either using a wired or wireless connection.
2. Press the remote’s Home button twice to open the Apps screen.

   

3. Navigate to All Apps and search for the app you want.
4. Install the app and launch it. That’s it!

2. VIZIO Internet Apps Plus (VIA Plus)

These models were manufactured between 2013 and 2017. You can also install apps from the Vizio Store on these TVs.

2.2. Add Apps on a VIA Plus Vizio TV

Follow the same steps listed above in the “Add Apps on a VIA TV” section. 

3. SmartCast Without Apps

These TVs were made between 2016 and 2017. You cannot install apps directly on these models, and they also do not have built-in apps. However, you can still use screencasting features.

3.1. Use ScreenCasting on TVs with SmartCast Without Apps

For these TVs, the best option is to cast content from another device, such as an Android phone, iPhone/iPad, Mac, Windows PC, or Linux computer.

1. Open the app you want to watch (for example, Netflix) on your device and tap the Cast or Airplay icon.
2. Select your Vizio TV from the list, and the app will appear on your TV screen. You can also Cast or Airplay your device’s entire screen, not just the app window, if your TV supports this option.

   

If you’re using a PC or Mac, you can project, cast, or Airplay your entire system display to the Vizio TV. If you want to cast just a browser window, open the browser menu and choose Cast. Select your TV from the list and you’re set.

4. SmartCast with Apps

These TV models were made after 2018. Some 4K UHD models from 2016-2017 also have this kind of firmware. On these TVs, apps are pre-installed and you cannot add apps from outside the built-in selection. However, you can use both built-in apps and screencasting.

4.1. Add Apps on a TV Supporting SmartCast with Apps

1. Connect your Vizio TV to the internet. Press the Input button on your remote to bring up the Input source menu. If you don’t have an Input button, you can try the Home button.
2. Select SmartCast as your Input source and go to Apps.

   

3. Find the app you want to add and select Install.
4. Open the app, and you’re all set!

Other Methods

If the options above don’t suit your needs, here are a few more ways to add or access apps on your Vizio TV without the V button. 

1. Use the Remote App

1. Download and install the Vizio Mobile app onto your smartphone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

   

2. Open the app and connect it to your Vizio TV.
3. Go to Apps and install any app you want on your TV.
4. Launch the app and start watching!

2. Use the TV Buttons

1. Make sure the TV is connected to the internet. Then, at the same time, press and hold the following TV buttons:

   Input
   
   Volume Down

   

2. Navigate to the Home screen, then open All Apps.
3. Install the app you need and open it. You’re done!

3. Use a Flash Drive to Sideload Apps on the Vizio TV

Note that sideloading apps will only work on TV models that allow external installations.

1. Download the APK file you need, using your phone or PC.
2. Copy the file to a flash drive (use an OTG adapter if needed for your phone). Make sure the USB drive is formatted to FAT32 and is no larger than 8 GB.
3. Turn off the Vizio TV and unplug it from the power outlet.
4. Insert the USB drive into the TV. Plug the TV power cable back in and power it on.

   

5. The TV should automatically load and install the app. Once completed, launch the app and enjoy!

4. Use a 3^rd-Party Streaming Device

If none of the above solutions works for you, you can use a third-party streaming device with your Vizio TV. Popular devices include Google Chromecast, Amazon Firestick, or Roku.

How to Remove Apps from the Vizio TV without a V Button

The steps to remove apps from your Vizio TV without the V button can vary based on the TV model. Here are the general steps:

1. Press the Home or Input button on the remote to access Apps or SmartCast. You can also use the TV’s physical buttons or the Vizio Mobile app.
2. Find the app you want to remove and open its options menu.
3. Select Remove or Uninstall, and confirm your choice.

   

If these steps don’t work, you may want to purchase a Vizio TV remote with a V button (if your TV supports it). Have a suggestion or question? Feel free to ask in the comments section below.