How to mirror iPhone to TV or computer

Mirroring your iPhone on a TV or computer not only enhances presentations and family gatherings by sharing photos, videos, and updates on a bigger screen, it also improves your media consumption experience. Imagine enjoying movies, shows, or flipping through photos and videos on a grand scale during a relaxing Saturday night at home. Whether it's for group entertainment or personal enjoyment, let us show you how to mirror iPhone to TV or computer.

What is the best way to mirror iPhone to TV?

As you can see, mirroring your iPhone to a TV can transform your viewing experience. Here are the best ways to do it:

• AirPlay: The most seamless method for iPhone users is probably AirPlay. With this feature, you can wirelessly stream or share content directly to an Apple TV, an AirPlay-compatible smart TV, or a Mac. Simply connect your devices to the same Wi-Fi network, swipe to access the Control Center on your iPhone, tap Screen Mirroring, and select your target device from the list.

• HDMI cable: To screen share iPhone, you can also use an HDMI cable with a Lightning digital AV adapter. Connect the adapter to your iPhone, connect the HDMI cable to a TV, and switch to the appropriate HDMI input on your TV. This method is ideal for environments where wireless connections are unreliable or unavailable.

• Chromecast: With Google's Chromecast, you can cast content from your iPhone to any Chromecast-enabled TV. Install the Google Home app on your iPhone, set up your Chromecast device, and tap the Cast button in compatible apps like YouTube or Netflix to mirror your screen.

• Roku: If you have a Roku device, enable screen mirroring on your Roku by going to Settings > System > Screen Mirroring. On your iPhone, download the Roku app and use the Media section to share your photos, videos, or music directly to your connected TV.

• Third-party apps: Several apps, such as LetsView, ApowerMirror, or Reflector, allow you to mirror your iPhone screen to various devices, including TVs that do not directly support AirPlay. These apps generally require both the iPhone and the receiving device to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and may offer additional features such as recording or adding annotations.

Use AirPlay to mirror iPhone or iPad to TV or computer

No longer do you need a bunch of tangled cables to connect your phone to a bigger screen. Now the iPhone can share its screen with TVs and other displays with just a few taps.

Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up screen mirroring with AirPlay:

Step 1: Check AirPlay compatibility

Make sure the device you want to mirror to (such as an Apple TV, an AirPlay-compatible smart TV, or a Mac running macOS Mojave or later) supports AirPlay. Check the device's specs or this list to confirm AirPlay compatibility.

Step 2: Connect to the same Wi-Fi network

Make sure both your iPhone/iPad and the AirPlay receiver (TV or computer) are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This is important because AirPlay relies on Wi-Fi to stream content between devices.

Step 3: Access the Control Center

On your iPhone or iPad, swipe down from the upper-right corner of the screen (on devices with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom of the screen (on devices with a Home button) to access the Control Center.

Step 4: Enable Screen Mirroring

Where is screen mirroring on iPhone? In the Control Center, tap the Screen Mirroring icon, which looks like two overlapping rectangles. This will open a list of available devices that support AirPlay.

Step 5: Choose your AirPlay device

From the list of devices, tap the name of the TV or computer you want to mirror your screen to. If prompted, enter the AirPlay passcode displayed on your TV or computer screen into your iPhone or iPad.

Step 6: Start mirroring

Once connected, your iPhone or iPad screen appears on the TV or computer. You can navigate your device as usual, and your actions will be mirrored on the larger screen.

To stop sharing your screen, go back to the Control Center and click on the Screen Sharing icon. 

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Why is my screen mirroring not working?

Screen mirroring iPhone problems can be frustrating. Below we outline some common reasons why screen mirroring might not work on your device:

Possible reason 1: AirPlay compatibility

As mentioned, you need to make sure the TV or computer you are trying to mirror to is AirPlay compatible. Not all devices natively support AirPlay, which is required for seamless screen mirroring.

Possible reason 2: Wi-Fi connection

Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If there is a network issue or one of the devices is connected to a different network, screen mirroring will not work.

Possible reason 3: Software isn't up to date 

Make sure your iOS device and the AirPlay receiver (Apple TV or other compatible device) are updated to the latest version of their respective operating systems. Outdated software may cause compatibility issues.

Possible reason 4: Interference or range issues

Physical obstacles or too much distance between your iOS device and the AirPlay receiver can interfere with the connection.

Possible reason 5: Settings restrictions

Some devices have restrictions that may disable screen mirroring. Check the settings on your devices to make sure all necessary screen mirroring options are turned on.

For a more detailed guide to troubleshooting these issues, especially if your device isn't AirPlay-compatible or you're having trouble connecting over Wi-Fi, read the full set of problem-solving guidelines. 

How to mirror an iPhone to a TV without AirPlay

If AirPlay doesn't work on your Apple TV, here are some reliable alternatives.

Screen mirror without AirPlay with third-party apps

Several apps, such as LetsView, ApowerMirror, or Reflector, allow you to mirror your iPhone screen to various devices, including TVs that do not directly support AirPlay.

Note: if you want to stream from your Mac, JustStream lets you stream video from your Mac to an Apple TV or any Chromecast-enabled device without relying on AirPlay.

Connect iPhone to HDMI-enabled TV

Why not use the most straightforward way of iPhone to TV connection – a good old HDMI cable? While AirPlay could potentially not work for a variety of reasons, including a faulty network connection, iPhone to HDMI is a reliable plan B to always keep in mind. 

To connect iPod Touch, iPad, or iPhone to HDMI TV, you need to use Apple’s Lightning Digital AV Adapter and a regular HDMI cable. Simply plug everything in and turn on your TV.

Chromecast iPhone to TV

With a Chromecast (a small media adapter that you can plug into your TV's HDMI port), you can cast photos, videos, music, and other content from your iPhone to the TV. Here's a simple guide for how to do it.

First of all, download and install the Chromecaster app from the Apple Store and start your free trial. Then follow the on-screen instructions, which only involve selecting the device you want to duplicate your screen on. Keep in mind that the app will only run on iOS 12 or newer. That's also an answer to the question: "How to mirror iPhone without Apple TV?"

How to mirror iPhone to Roku

Open the Control Center on your iPhone to mirror your iPhone to a Roku device. Then tap the Screen Mirroring button and select your Roku device from the list that pops up. Finally, enter the code that appears on your TV into your iPhone and tap OK.

Screen mirroring iPhone and iPad basics tips

The "Screen share iPhone to TV" functionality enhances your viewing experience, making it ideal for presentations, media enjoyment, and sharing content with others. To ensure a seamless experience, remember to do the following:

• Check device compatibility with AirPlay or consider alternative third-party apps for broader support across different TVs.

• Make sure both your iOS device and receiver are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

• Keep your devices up to date to avoid compatibility or performance issues.

By following these basic tips, you can make the most of screen mirroring to enhance the way you share and enjoy content on larger screens. Whether for work or play, mastering these basics will help you get the most out of your devices' screen mirroring capabilities.

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