How to stream images to a TV via Wi-Fi: all the methods for 2026

Transferring photos to a large TV screen via a wireless network is a task that every second owner faces Smart TVWhether you want to show family photos to guests, showcase your portfolio to a client, or simply enjoy the quality 4K- images on a 55+ inch diagonal, Wi-Fi connection eliminates the need for wires or physical media. However, not everyone knows that there are at least five methods for such transmission, each with its own nuances.

In this article, we will examine all current methods - from standard protocols DLNA And Miracast to proprietary solutions like Apple AirPlay And Google Cast, as well as cloud services. You will find out which method is suitable for your TV model (Samsung, LG, Sony Bravia or Xiaomi TV), how to avoid common connection errors, and what to do if the image is transmitted with a delay or low resolution. We will pay special attention compatibility of devices produced in 2026–2026, as new models often require an updated approach to tuning.

Before following the instructions, please ensure two key requirements: your TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the source device (smartphone, tablet, or computer), and wireless data transfer must be enabled on both devices. If either of these requirements is not met, none of the methods described below will work.

1. DLNA streaming: a universal protocol for all devices

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a standard that allows devices on the same network to exchange multimedia content without additional software. Most modern Smart TV (starting from 2018) support this protocol out of the box, and on smartphones and PCs it can be activated through third-party applications.

To transfer a photo via DLNA, you need to enable the function on your TV. Network server or Media server (the name may differ depending on the model). Samsung this is usual Settings → General → External devices → Devices to connect, and on LG — Settings → Network → DLNAOnce activated, the TV will become visible on the local network as a media device.

From the source side (for example, a smartphone on Android) you will need an application like BubbleUPnP or LocalCastIn these programs, select the desired image, click "Play on..." and select your TV from the list. Windows 10/11 You can use the built-in Explorer: open the folder with the photo, right-click on the file → Transfer to device → select TV.

• ✅ Supported by most TVs (including budget models)
• ✅ No need to install additional software on your TV
• ⚠️ It may slow down when transferring images to RAW or 4K
• ⚠️ On iPhone a third party application is required (eg. 8player Lite)

⚠️ Attention: Some manufacturers (eg Sony DLNA is disabled by default for security reasons on 2023–2026 models. If your TV doesn't appear in the device list, check your network settings or update your firmware.

2. Miracast: A lag-free wireless display (but with limitations)

Miracast is a technology that allows you to mirror the screen of a smartphone, tablet, or PC to a TV without using the internet. Unlike DLNA, it doesn't transfer a single file, but the entire device screen in real time. This is convenient for presentations or viewing photos in a gallery, but requires both parties to support the standard.

To use Miracast, your TV must have the function Screen Mirroring (on Samsung — Smart View, on LG — Screen Share). On a smartphone (Android 4.2+) open "Settings" → "Connected devices" → "Screen casting" (or "Cast"). Windows 10/11 click Win + K and select the TV from the list.

Important note: Miracast only works online. 5 GHz (if the router is dual-band) and may not be supported on older TV models (before 2019). Also, some manufacturers (for example, Apple) do not implement Miracast in their devices - for iPhone And Mac will have to be used AirPlay.

Turn on Wi-Fi on both devices

Activate Screen Mirroring on TV

Switch your router to 5 GHz mode (if supported)

Disable VPN on your smartphone/PC

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⚠️ Attention: If the image on your TV flickers or breaks up when connecting via Miracast, try lowering the screen resolution on the source or reconnecting. Some budget TVs (TCL, Hisense) limit the frame rate to 30 Hz, which can cause discomfort when scrolling through the gallery.

3. Apple AirPlay: The perfect solution for the Apple ecosystem

If you have iPhone, iPad or Mac, and the TV supports AirPlay 2 (For example, Samsung QLED 2020+, LG OLED 2019+, Sony Bravia X90J and newer), this method will be the simplest and most stable. AirPlay allows you to stream both individual photos and the entire device screen with minimal latency.

To transfer an image:

1. Make sure the TV and Apple- the device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. On your TV, activate AirPlay in the settings menu (usually Settings → General → Apple AirPlay).
3. On iPhone Open a photo in the Photos app, tap the Share button → AirPlay and select TV.

To share the entire screen, swipe down from the top right corner (on iPhone X and newer) → Screen mirroring → select TV. On Mac Click on the sound control icon in the menu bar → Screen mirroring.

• ✅ Lowest battery consumption among all methods
• ✅ Supports 4K HDR on compatible TVs
• ⚠️ Requires a TV with AirPlay 2 (the list of supported models is on the website Apple)
• ⚠️ On Android And Windows works only through third-party programs (for example, 5KPlayer)

4. Google Cast (Chromecast): for Android and Chrome

Google Cast — is a technology originally developed for devices Chromecast, but now built into many Smart TV on Android TV (Sony, Philips, Xiaomi etc.). It allows you to "send" content from your phone or browser to your TV, while the source can continue to be used for other tasks.

To cast a photo via Google Cast:

1. Make sure you have the app installed on your TV. Google Home (on Android TV it is usually preinstalled).
2. On smartphone (Android or iOS) open the application Google Photos.
3. Select an image, click "Share" → "Transfer" (Cast) and select TV.

To transfer from a computer, open a browser Chrome, right-click on the image → Send to device → Select your TV. Alternatively, you can use the extension Google Cast for Education (useful for educational institutions).

⚠️ Attention: When transmitting via Google Cast some TVs (Xiaomi Mi TV 4S, Philips 7000 series) automatically optimize the image resolution to 1080p, even if the original is in 4KTo avoid this, disable the "Automatic scaling" option in your TV settings.

Why is Google Cast better than Miracast for photos?

When using Google Cast, the TV automatically downloads the image from the cloud or local network, while Miracast streams video from the device's screen. This means:

• Image quality does not depend on the smartphone's performance
• No delay when scrolling through the gallery
• You can continue to use your phone during the show.

5. Cloud services: Dropbox, Google Photos and alternatives

If your TV does not support any of the above protocols (for example, it is an old model Samsung series J or LG on webOS 1.0), you can use cloud services. This method is universal, but requires a stable internet connection and may be limited by download speed.

The most popular photo transfer services:

• 📁 Google Photos: Upload images to the app, then open it on your TV via a browser or app Google TV (if supported).
• 💾 Dropbox: Create a folder with photos, generate a shareable link, and open it on your TV using a browser.
• 🌐 Yandex Disk: Similar to Dropbox, but with support for previewing images without downloading.
• 📺 Samsung Cloud: For TVs only Samsung 2016–2020 (service closed for new models).

The main advantage of this method is that it doesn't require a local network. You can upload photos in advance and display them on your TV even without Wi-Fi (as long as the TV has internet access via a mobile hotspot). However, be careful with privacy: don't share links to folders containing personal data.

6. Troubleshooting: Why the image isn't transmitted

Even with proper setup, errors can still occur. Here are the most common issues and their solutions:

If none of the methods worked, check:

• 🔄 Update your TV firmware (in the menu Settings → Support → Software Update).
• 📶 Restart your router (sometimes changing the Wi-Fi channel helps).
• 🔌 Connect your TV to the router with a cable Ethernet (if possible).
• 🛠️ Reset the network settings on your TV (Settings → Network → Reset).

⚠️ Attention: On TVs Sony Bravia 2021–2023 release year function Google Cast may conflict with Apple AirPlayIf both are enabled at the same time, disable one of them in the network settings.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transmitting images to TV

Is it possible to transfer photos from iPhone to TV without Apple TV?

Yes, if your TV supports it. AirPlay 2 (For example, Samsung QLED 2020+, LG OLED CX and newer). You can also use applications like TV Cast For Chromecast or DLNA servers (For example, Plex). For older TVs, you will need an additional device such as Roku Streaming Stick+.

Why does the image on the TV lag when transmitting via Miracast?

Lag when using Miracast is caused by your phone or PC constantly compressing and transmitting the video stream. To reduce lag:

• Connect to the network 5 GHz (if the router is dual-band).
• Reduce the screen resolution on the source to 1280×720.
• Close resource-consuming background applications.

For photographs it is better to use DLNA or Google Cast - they don't create such a lag.

How do I transfer photos from my PC to my TV if I don't have a Smart TV?

There are three options:

1. Connect to TV Android set-top box (For example, Xiaomi Mi Box S) and use Google Cast or DLNA.
2. Use HDMI cable (if the PC has a corresponding port).
3. Connect to TV USB drive with photos (if the TV supports playback) JPEG/PNG).

For older TVs with VGA-an adapter will be required for the input HDMI-to-VGA.

Is it possible to transfer photos in RAW format?

Most TVs do not support display RAW-files (for example, .CR2, .NEF). Solutions:

• Pre-convert RAW V JPEG through Lightroom or FastStone.
• Use Plex Media Server on PC - it automatically converts formats when broadcasting to TV.
• For Sony Bravia 2022+ has built-in support RAW via the app Imaging Edge.

How to transfer photos from your phone to your TV without Wi-Fi?

If Wi-Fi is not available, alternatives:

• USB cable: Connect your phone to your TV via USB-OTG (majority Smart TV support the regime MTP).
• Bluetooth: Some TVs (LG NanoCell, Samsung The Frame) allow you to transfer files via Bluetooth, but the speed will be low.
• Mobile hotspot: Turn on Internet sharing on your phone and connect your TV to it.
• SD card: Copy photos to a memory card and insert it into the TV (if there is a slot).