App and remote control explained

App and remote control open up a whole new way to enjoy a toy. Whether you want to hand over the controls to a partner, play together across a distance or simply create your own patterns, these features add variety and a sense of playfulness. This guide explains how each works and how to choose.

How does a remote-control vibrator work?

A remote control is a small wireless controller that changes speeds and patterns without touching the toy. Remotes are simple, tactile and need no phone, app or account. You press a button and the toy responds.

Most remotes work within a few metres, which is plenty for the same room or the next. Range varies from toy to toy, so check the product page for the exact figure before you buy.

Remotes are lovely for:

• Couples who want to share control in the same space.
• Anyone who prefers buttons to screens.
• Hands-free moments, when reaching for the toy would interrupt the mood.

What can an app-controlled vibrator do?

App control connects a toy to a free companion app on your phone, usually over Bluetooth. Apps unlock features a remote cannot:

• Custom patterns. Create and save your own rhythms.
• Music sync. Let the toy respond to your favourite playlist.
• Long-distance play. A trusted partner can control the toy from anywhere with an internet connection.
• More settings. App toys usually offer many more speeds and patterns.

Feature lists vary a great deal between apps, so it is worth reading what a particular app offers before you choose.

How does long-distance play work?

Long-distance play lets a partner you trust send settings to your toy over the internet, wherever they are. For couples who spend time apart, whether for work, study or living in different places, it can be a warm way to stay connected.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Only share control with someone you trust completely.
• Agree together on how and when you will use it.
• You can always stop a session from your own phone at any time.

The best of both

Some toys offer app and remote control, so you can choose screen or button depending on the moment. A few go further still and save your favourite patterns on the toy itself, so they are there even without your phone.

Our current collection does not include app or remote models yet; every toy we sell today is controlled by buttons on the toy. If you would like to share the fun with a partner now, the Duet Dual Massage Wand has two motors, each with its own button, so you can each take an end. For something simple and bath-friendly, the Lune Rechargeable Mini Bullet has one easy button and is rated IPX7. You can see everything we stock in the shop.

How can you keep an app toy private?

It is natural to wonder about privacy with an app. When choosing any connected toy, it is sensible to:

• Use a strong, unique password for the app account, if it has one.
• Keep the app updated.
• Check the app's privacy settings and only share sessions with people you trust.
• Remember that the toy itself is just as discreet as any other: no branding, and a travel lock on most models.

When you shop with us, your order arrives in plain, unbranded packaging and your bank statement shows only "BH Commerce Ltd". Our guide to privacy and data explains how we handle your information.

Should you choose app or remote control?

• Prefer simple? A remote is immediate and needs no phone.
• Love variety? An app unlocks custom patterns and music sync.
• Spend time apart from a partner? App control makes long-distance play possible.
• Want flexibility? Choose a toy with both.

Ideas for using them together

Remote and app toys are especially lovely for couples, whether you are exploring together for the first time or adding something new. Our guides to couples play and with a partner have tasteful ideas. If you are still deciding whether to bring it up, see talking to a partner.

Browse our full App & Remote range to compare every option.