How to stream from iPhone to TV via Wi-Fi: all the methods and solutions

Screencasting with iPhone to TV via Wi-Fi — a convenient way to display photos, videos, or even mirror games on a big screen wirelessly. However, many users encounter difficulties: the TV isn't detected, there are delays, or additional devices need to be purchased. In this article, we'll look into all available methods wireless broadcasting, from standard AirPlay to alternative solutions for Smart TV different brands.

It is important to understand that the broadcast capabilities depend on three factors: the model of your iPhone (does he support AirPlay 2), TV type (presence of built-in Apple TV or compatibility with Miracast) and stability Wi-Fi networksIf you have a modern iPhone 12 If your TV is older than 2018, and your TV is manufactured after 2018, your chances of successfully streaming without adapters are significantly higher. Older models will require additional devices or software.

We won't limit ourselves to just theory - in each section you'll find step-by-step instructions With screenshots (interface descriptions), compatibility tables, and solutions. And if you're still unsure which method to choose, take our survey below!

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1. Stream via AirPlay to Apple TV or compatible Smart TVs

The most reliable and high-quality way to broadcast with iPhone - use of technology AirPlayIt works out of the box on devices. Apple and some Smart TV with support AirPlay 2The main advantage is minimal delays (up to 50 ms) and resolution support 4K HDR.

To broadcast your screen via AirPlay, follow these steps:

  • 📱 Open Control center on iPhone (swipe down from the top right corner on models with Face ID or up from the bottom edge on models with a button Home).
  • 🔍 Click on the block Screen mirroring (or Screen Mirroring (in the English version of iOS).
  • 📺 Select your device from the list of available devices Apple TV or Smart TV with support AirPlay 2.
  • 🔒 When connecting for the first time, you may be asked to enter a code that appears on the TV screen.

If your TV does not appear in the list, check:

  • 🔌 Are they connected? iPhone and TV to one Wi-Fi network (this is a mandatory condition for AirPlay).
  • 📦 Is the firmware updated on Apple TV (or Smart TV) And iPhone to the latest versions.
  • ⚙️ Is the feature enabled? AirPlay in the TV settings (usually in the section Network → Apple AirPlay).

☑️ Check before connecting AirPlay

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Compatible TVs with AirPlay 2 (2026):

Brand Models (series) Minimum software version
Samsung QLED 2018+ (Q60 and above), The Frame 2020+ Tizen 4.0
LG OLED (C9, CX, G1, G2), NanoCell 2020+ webOS 4.5
Sony Bravia X900H, X950H, A8H, A9G Android TV 9.0
Xiaomi Mi TV 4S/5 (Pro), Q1/Q2 MIUI TV 3.0
⚠️ Attention: Some televisions (eg. Samsung 2018–2019) require manual activation AirPlay in the settings. Go to General → External Devices → Apple Device Settings and activate the option.

2. Alternative methods for TVs without AirPlay

If your TV does not support AirPlay, there are several workarounds. One of them is to use Miracast adapters, which connect to HDMI-port and create a virtual display Wi-Fi DirectPopular models:

  • 🔌 Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter (supports 1080p/60fps)
  • 🔌 ScreenBeam Mini2 (compatible with iOS via third-party applications)
  • 🔌 AnyCast (budget option, but delays are possible)

To connect via Miracast:

  1. Connect the adapter to HDMI-TV port and power source (if required).
  2. On iPhone install a screen mirroring app like ApowerMirror or LetsView.
  3. Launch the application and select the adapter from the list of available devices.
  4. Confirm the connection on your TV (you may be asked to enter a PIN code).

Important: Miracast on iPhone It only works through third-party applications, because Apple does not support this protocol natively. Streaming quality will be worse than AirPlay (artifacts and delays may occur up to 200–300 ms).

3. Broadcasting via TV producer apps

Many brands offer their own apps for streaming content from mobile devices. For example:

  • 📺 Samsung SmartThings — for TVs Samsung (supports photo/video streaming, but not screen mirroring).
  • 📺 LG TV Plus - For LG Smart TV (works on Wi-Fi Direct).
  • 📺 Philips TV Remote — for TVs Philips With Android TV.

Typically these apps allow you to stream media files only (photos, videos, music), but not the entire screen. For example, in SmartThings You can:

  1. Open the app and select your TV.
  2. Click on the icon Media and select files to broadcast.
  3. Confirm playback on TV.

For a full-fledged screen mirroring such applications are not suitable - it is better to use here AirPlay or Miracast adapters.

Why don't brand apps support screen mirroring?

TV manufacturers often limit the functionality of their apps due to licensing agreements with Apple (AirPlay) or Google (Chromecast). Full screen mirroring requires deep integration with the device's operating system, which is only possible through standard protocols like AirPlay or Miracast.

4. Using Google Chromecast to Cast from iPhone

Google Chromecast — a popular streaming device, but it doesn't support direct screen mirroring With iPhoneHowever, you can broadcast specific applications, which support Google Cast, For example:

  • 🎬 YouTube, Netflix, Disney+
  • 📷 Google Photos (to display photos)
  • 🎵 Spotify, Apple Music (via web version)

To stream content through Chromecast:

  1. Connect Chromecast To HDMI-TV port and set it up through the app Google Home.
  2. Make sure that iPhone And Chromecast connected to one Wi-Fi networks.
  3. Open a supported application (eg. YouTube) and click the icon Cast (usually in the upper right corner).
  4. Choose yours Chromecast from the list of devices.

For duplication entire screen you will have to use workarounds, such as broadcasting through a computer with installed Chrome and expansion Google CastHowever, this adds extra steps and may reduce quality.

⚠️ Attention: When broadcasting via Chromecast some applications (eg Netflix) may block content output due to DRM restrictions. In this case, the video will only play on iPhone, and an error will appear on the TV.

5. Troubleshooting Wi-Fi streaming issues

If your stream is interrupted, slows down, or doesn't start at all, check the following:

Problem Possible cause Solution
The TV is not detected Devices on different networks Connect iPhone and TV to one Wi-Fi networks (not to the guest!)
Image/sound delay Weak Wi-Fi signal Move the router closer to the TV or use 5 GHz range
No sound during broadcast HDCP limitations Check cables and settings HDMI-CEC on TV
The broadcast is cut off Network congestion Disconnect other devices from Wi-Fi or limit background tasks on iPhone

If the problem persists, try:

  • 🔄 Restart the router and TV.
  • 📱 Reset network settings on iPhone (Settings → General → Transfer or reset → Reset network settings).
  • 🔧 Update your router firmware (especially if you use Mesh systems or non-standard settings).

6. Comparison of broadcast methods: which one to choose?

Which method is best depends on your needs and equipment. Below is a comparison table:

Method Quality Delay Difficulty of setup Additional costs
AirPlay (native) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4K HDR) 30–50 ms Low No (if TV supports it)
Miracast (adapter) ⭐⭐⭐ (1080p) 150–300 ms Average From 1,500 ₽
Chromecast ⭐⭐⭐ (1080p, apps only) 100–200 ms Low From 3,000 ₽
Brand applications ⭐⭐ (media only) 50–100 ms Low No

If you need to stream games or videos with minimal latency, AirPlay to Apple TV or a compatible Smart TV is the best choice. For watching movies from apps (Netflix, YouTube), a Chromecast is sufficient. Miracast adapters are suitable for a budget solution, but don't expect perfect quality.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to mirror an iPhone's screen to a TV without Wi-Fi?

Yes, but with limitations. Some Miracast adapters (For example, ScreenBeam) support connection via Wi-Fi Direct, which does not require a router. However, AirPlay And Chromecast definitely need a shared Wi-Fi network.

Why is there no sound when streaming via AirPlay?

This may be due to:

  • Settings HDMI-CEC on TV (turn on Anynet+ For Samsung or Simplink For LG).
  • DRM restrictions (for example, some services like Amazon Prime block sound output via AirPlay).
  • Outdated firmware Apple TV or TV.

Try restarting your devices or using a different cable. HDMI (preferably with support) ARC).

How to mirror your iPhone's screen to an old, non-Smart TV?

For TVs without HDMI or Smart TV you will need:

  1. 📦 AV adapter (For example, HDMI-to-AV converter) + Miracast transmitter.
  2. 📡 Apple TV (connects via HDMI, but for an old TV you need a converter).
  3. 💻 Intermediate PC (broadcast screen iPhone to the computer via QuickTime Player, and then output to TV).

Please note that in these cases the quality will be worse and the delays will be higher.

Is it possible to stream my iPhone screen to a TV via mobile internet (4G/5G)?

Technically yes, but it's inconvenient:

  • 📶 You will need to create access point on iPhone and connect your TV to it (if it supports Wi-Fi).
  • ⚠️ The quality will be poor due to mobile internet speed limitations (especially when 1080p).
  • 💰 Traffic consumption will be 1–3 GB/hour for high definition video.

It is better to use stable Wi-Fi.

Why does AirPlay casting only work with some apps?

It's related to politics. DRM (content protection). Some services (for example, Netflix, Disney+, Sky) block the broadcast through AirPlay, If:

  • 🔒 The TV is not certified to play protected content.
  • 📺 An unofficial firmware or adapter is used.
  • 📱 Application on iPhone obsolete.

Solution: Update the app and TV firmware or use official devices (Apple TV).