Modern technologies allow you to turn your smartphone into a powerful multimedia control panel, eliminating the need to transfer files or search for HDMI cables. Connection iPhone to the TV LG Wirelessly access a huge amount of content directly on the big screen. This is especially convenient for viewing photos, presentations, or streaming video from apps that don't have built-in Smart TV support.
The main tool for achieving this task is technology AirPlay 2, built into most modern LG TVs running the webOS platform. You won't need to purchase additional set-top boxes if your router and TV support wireless data standards. The setup process takes just a few minutes and doesn't require extensive technical knowledge, but it does require certain network conditions.
In this guide, we will go through all the steps of pairing devices in detail, and consider alternative methods through the app. LG ThinQ We'll answer frequently asked questions about connection stability. You'll learn not only how to display images, but also how to control playback, and what to do if devices don't see each other in the list of available displays.
Checking compatibility and preparing equipment
Before starting setup, it's crucial to ensure your equipment supports the required protocols. AirPlay 2 is available on LG TVs released in 2019 and later, as well as some 2018 models with a firmware update. If you have an older model, the standard method may not work, and you'll need to look for alternative solutions.
Make sure your iPhone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your TV. fundamental requirement, since data transfer occurs locally through the router, not through the provider's internet connection. Guest Wi-Fi networks often have client isolation, making device detection impossible.
⚠️ Important: If your router broadcasts the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands under different SSIDs, make sure both devices are connected to the same SSID. Different subnets can block a direct connection.
It's also worth checking the iOS version on your smartphone. For proper operation, it's recommended to use the latest software version, as Apple is constantly improving video transfer protocols. On your LG TV, it's also a good idea to check for updates through the settings menu.
Activating AirPlay on an LG TV
By default, the Apple device reception feature on LG TVs may be disabled or require manual confirmation each time you connect. To activate the receiver, take the Magic Remote and press the button. Settings (gear) or button Input (entrance).
In the menu that opens, select "Connect to a mobile device" or find the "AirPlay" app in the list of installed apps. If you're using a newer version of webOS, the AirPlay icon may be located directly on the main quick access bar. By accessing the app's settings, you can change the device name to easily identify it in the iPhone list.
In the AirPlay settings menu, check the "Require Code" option. For home use, it's best to select "First Time" or "Off" to avoid entering a PIN every time you connect. However, if you share your TV with others, it's best to leave the verification option on for security.
☑️ Check before connection
Mirror your iPhone's screen to your TV (Screen Mirroring)
The most versatile way to mirror an image is to use Screen Mirroring. This action completely replicates the contents of your smartphone's display on your TV, including the iOS interface, notifications, and home screens. Open Control Center on your iPhone (swipe down from the upper-right corner or swipe up on older models).
Click the "Screen Mirroring" icon, which looks like two overlapping rectangles. Select your TV from the list of available devices that appears. LGIf you've set up a passcode, a 4-digit code will appear on your TV screen that you'll need to enter on your iPhone.
After successful pairing, the image from the phone will appear on the full screen. It is important to rememberIn this mode, your phone won't lock, and all notifications will be visible on the big screen. To stop broadcasting, open Control Center again and tap "Stop Repeating," or simply select the icon on the lock screen.
What to do if the screen goes black?
If you connect and see a picture but no sound, or the screen is black, check your video format settings. Some apps block the output of protected content via AirPlay due to licensing restrictions (HDCP).
Stream videos and photos from apps
A more energy-efficient option is to use the built-in cast button within apps like YouTube, Netflix, Vimeo, or Photos. This way, the TV streams data directly from the network, offloading the iPhone's processor and saving battery life.
Find the AirPlay icon (rectangle with a triangle at the bottom) or the "LG Connect" logo in the app. Tapping it will select the target device. Unlike full screen mirroring, you can minimize the app on your phone, reply to messages, or even turn off the smartphone screen—and playback on the TV will continue.
The quality of the transmitted video is often higher in this mode, as the TV decodes the stream itself, supporting formats up to 4K and HDR, if the model supports it. The process for the photo gallery is similar: open a photo, tap "Share," and select AirPlay to display a slideshow.
| Parameter | Screen Mirroring | Casting from the app |
|---|---|---|
| Booting iPhone | High (processes video) | Low (remote control only) |
| Format | Exact screen copy | Original file quality |
| Notifications | Visible on TV | Not visible on TV |
| Screen lock | The broadcast is terminated. | Playing now |
Using the LG ThinQ app to control
If standard methods are unstable or you need advanced functionality, use the official app. LG ThinQIt's available in the App Store and allows you to not only stream media files but also use your phone as an advanced remote control with a keyboard for text input.
After installing the app and registering an account, click "+" to add a device. The app will automatically find the TV on your local network. Once paired, select "Cast" or "Screen Share" in the app interface.
The advantage of this method is the ability to transfer files in various formats not supported by the native AirPlay player. Additionally, ThinQ can be used to control volume and navigate the Smart TV menu, which is convenient if the main remote is lost.
Troubleshooting connection and latency issues
The most common issue is when the iPhone simply doesn't see the TV in the device list. In this case, the first step is to reboot the router. The network services cache often gets full, and a simple restart restores the discovery protocols (Bonjour/mDNS).
If the issue persists, check your router's firewall or antivirus settings. Some IoT Protection or Guest Mode features may be blocking local communication between Apple and LG devices. Try temporarily disabling these features to test.
⚠️ Note: The webOS and iOS interfaces are updated regularly. The menu item layout may differ slightly from that described. If you don't find the option you need, use the search in your TV settings.
If you experience audio delays (desync between audio and video), try changing the delay mode in the AirPlay settings on your TV or disabling additional audio effects, such as AI Sound Pro, which can introduce lags when processing the signal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect an iPhone to an old LG TV without Smart features?
Without a built-in Wi-Fi module and Smart TV, direct connection is impossible. You'll need to purchase an external set-top box (Apple TV, Chromecast, or Android TV box) that connects via HDMI and supports AirPlay.
Why is there no sound when connected, only a picture?
Check that your phone isn't set to silent mode, although sound should normally be present. Most often, the problem lies with the audio codec format, which isn't supported by the TV for direct mirroring. Try playing the video through YouTube or VLC, which have their own decoders.
Video is lagging when streaming from an iPhone. What should I do?
Reduce the video quality in the source app (e.g., from 4K to 1080p). Also, make sure no other devices are hogging the bandwidth by downloading large files. The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi channel is often overloaded; switching to 5 GHz will solve the problem.
Does the operator charge for data transfer to the TV?
No, since the streaming is done within your home network via your router, it doesn't consume any internet traffic (if you're watching local files). If you're watching online videos, your data usage is the same as if you were watching them on your phone.