You just need a small Bluetooth-enabled box sitting on your coffee table near the TV that has an IR transmitter and a paired app on your phone that can send commands to the box.
yeah, but you have to be line of sight for a universal remote to work. the app enabled IR box means you can be anywhere within range. that does have its advantages. also, being in the kitchen while the remote is near the couch when your streaming platform of choice asks "Are You Still There?" means you can answer from the kitchen.