Working a roku without remote

You can only use the cellphone app after the roku is set up to internet and not before. So you will need a true roku remote initially, once it knows your network and password, you can use the cellphone that is set to the same internet credentials. A roku doesn't have IP address until it is connected to the internet. 

I had the same problem.. if you know the name and password of last known internet connection for your ROKU device, YOU’RE IN !! 
you need 2 phones, the previous internet connection and a mobile hotspot. 
1.) change your mobile hotspot information to the last know internet connection to ROKU device. Then turn on hotspot. {(Name of your phone if IOS) MUST BE TYPED IN CORRECTLY OR IT WONT CONNECT!!}
2.) power on tv and it should connect immediately then use second phone to navigate and connect to current Wi-Fi. Hope this helps . It did for me 😏

I have same issue how did u resolve it