Modern Honor smartphones feature powerful displays with high pixel density, but viewing content with family or presenting projects often requires a larger screen. Wireless signal transmission technology allows you to transform any modern Smart TV into a giant monitor for your device. Syncing devices via a local Wi-Fi network eliminates the need for bulky cables and adapters, ensuring a tidy workspace.
This interaction is based on a protocol Miracast, which is built directly into the MagicOS (formerly EMUI) shell, making the process as simple as possible for the user. You won't need to install any third-party software if your TV supports the wireless display feature. However, connection stability directly depends on the router's signal quality and the software versions of both devices.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all available streaming methods, including native system tools and third-party apps. We'll also examine common issues Honor owners encounter when trying to connect their devices to their TVs and offer effective solutions.
To get started, make sure both gadgets are in the same wireless network coverage area. It is critical that both devices are connected to the same router frequency (either both to 2.4 GHz or both to 5 GHz), as inter-frequency isolation can interfere with detection. Only if this condition is met will the system be able to correctly establish a handshake between the receiver and the transmitter.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before setting up, you need to ensure your infrastructure is technically ready. Most modern Samsung, LG, Sony, and Philips TVs are equipped with built-in Wi-Fi Direct modules, which allow you to receive video streams without a router. However, for stable operation, it's recommended to use a single network. Check that the wireless module is activated on your TV in the network settings menu.
On Honor smartphones, the casting feature may have different names depending on the firmware version: "Wireless Projection," "Cast," or "Multi-screen." In older versions of EMUI, this option is often hidden in the quick access panel, which can be accessed by swiping down from the top. Make sure your device's GPS module is enabled, as Android sometimes uses it to more accurately locate devices on the local network.
If your TV is an older generation and doesn't have built-in Smart TV support, you'll need an external set-top box, such as Chromecast, Apple TV, or Android Box. In this case, the steps are similar, but the signal receiver will be a device connected to it via HDMI, not the TV itself.
⚠️ Note: Some routers have an "AP Isolation" feature that prevents devices connected to the Wi-Fi network from seeing each other. If your phone can't find your TV, check your router settings and disable this feature.
Broadcast via the built-in Wireless Projection function
The fastest way to project an image is to use the native system tool. Open the notification shade and find the "Wireless Projection" icon. If it's not on the main screen, tap the edit button (usually a pencil or three dots) and drag the icon to the active area. Once activated, it will automatically search for available displays within range.
You may also be asked to confirm the connection request on your TV screen. Depending on your TV model, you may see a confirmation code or simply a pop-up window with the name of your Honor smartphone. Press "Accept" on the remote control or using the buttons on the TV. Once paired, the image from your phone will instantly appear on the big screen.
To control the process, use the pop-up menu that appears on your smartphone screen. There, you can pause the broadcast, change the image orientation, or disconnect from the network. It's important to understand that while actively broadcasting, your phone screen may be in mirroring mode, meaning all notifications and incoming calls will be displayed on the TV.
In some cases, the system offers a choice of operating modes: "Mirror" or "Screen Extend." The first option completely copies the display's contents, while the second allows you to use the TV as a second monitor if the app supports this feature. Mirror mode is optimal for gaming and viewing photos.
☑️ Check before connection
Using Cast Apps and Chromecast
If the native function doesn't work or your TV doesn't support Miracast, apps using Google Cast technology can help. Many modern TVs have built-in Chromecast, allowing you to stream content directly from YouTube, Netflix, or Google Photos. To do this, simply tap the cast icon (the rectangle with waves) within the app.
For full screen mirroring using third-party methods, you can use the Google Home app. After installing and setting up the device, select your TV from the list of available devices in the app and click the "Mirror Screen" button. This method often works more reliably than built-in methods, especially in mixed networks with different device manufacturers.
There are also a variety of specialized utilities in the Google Play Store, such as "TV Cast" or "AllCast," that allow you to cast local video and photo files to your TV. They scan your phone's internal storage and offer to send the selected file to a DLNA-compatible device. This is a great option if you want to show a presentation or family album without opening a cluttered system interface.
⚠️ Please note: When using third-party screencasting apps (not via Chromecast), you may experience increased image lag, making them unsuitable for fast-paced games.
Why is the broadcast interrupted?
Frequent connection drops are most often caused by Wi-Fi congestion from neighboring routers. Try switching to the 5 GHz frequency if your router and TV support it. Power saving may also be the issue: add the streaming app to the battery exception list in Honor settings.
Streaming media via DLNA and local network
The DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) protocol is designed specifically for sharing multimedia content within a home network. Unlike mirroring, only the file itself is transmitted, not the entire screen. This allows you to use your phone as a remote control, pausing or rewinding videos without being distracted by messaging notifications.
To use this method, a media server or receiver app (often called "Media," "Gallery," or "Smart Share") must be running on the TV. On an Honor phone, simply open the gallery, select a video or photo, tap "Share," and then select "Cast" or "Smart View." The system will find the TV on the network and begin playing the file.
The advantage of DLNA is the ability to turn off the phone's screen while watching. The smartphone acts as a controller, sending only stream control commands, while the TV downloads and decodes the video stream from the router. This significantly saves battery life on the mobile device.
However, the file format must be supported by the TV. If you try to stream a video in a rare codec that the TV can't decode, playback will not start. In such cases, it's better to use screen mirroring, as the phone's processor handles the decoding.
Comparison of connection methods and specifications
The choice of connection method depends on your goals: whether you need to display app interfaces, watch movies, or play games. Each method has its own limitations in terms of input lag and image quality. Below is a table to help you choose the best option for your situation.
| Method | Latency | Quality | Battery consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miracast (Built-in) | Low/Medium | 1080p / 4K | High |
| Google Cast | Low | Up to 4K HDR | Average |
| DLNA | Absent | Original file | Short |
| Third-party apps | High | Depends on the network | Very tall |
For games that require fast reaction times, a wired connection or low-latency Miracast modes, if supported by your router, are best. For watching high-definition movies, Google Cast or DLNA are ideal, as they provide the best picture quality without the compression artifacts typical of screen streaming.
It's also worth considering the processor load. When mirroring, the phone is constantly encoding the video stream, which can cause the case to heat up and throttle (reduce performance). In DLNA mode, the load is minimal, as it's simply transferring data.
Troubleshooting connection and stability issues
The most common issue is that the phone sees the network but not the TV. In this case, try restarting both devices. Temporarily disabling mobile data (3G/4G) on the smartphone, forcing the system to switch to Wi-Fi data, often helps.
If the image is choppy or has low resolution, check the distance to your router. Wireless video transmission protocols require a stable, high-bandwidth channel. Walls and metal structures can block the signal. Move closer to the router or use a repeater to boost the signal in your seating area.
In rare cases, antivirus software or a firewall on your router may block ports that are necessary for operation. Miracast or DLNATry temporarily disabling traffic filtering or creating an unrestricted guest network to test your hypothesis.
Also, make sure your TV has the latest firmware version. Manufacturers regularly release updates that improve compatibility with new versions of Android and Honor MagicOS. The update check is usually located in the menu. Settings → Support → Software Update.
⚠️ Note: Menu interfaces and item names may vary depending on your TV model and MagicOS version. If you don't find an exact match, look for synonyms (e.g., "Cast" instead of "Projection").
What should I do if the sound comes from my phone and not from the TV?
When connecting, click the speaker icon or select "output device" in the sound menu and select your TV. Sometimes the system defaults to using the smartphone's audio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a phone to a TV without a WiFi router?
Yes, this is possible using Wi-Fi Direct technology. In this mode, the phone creates a direct connection to the TV, eliminating the need for a router. You can also use the phone's hotspot mode if the TV can connect to the network, but this will drain the battery quickly.
Why is there no sound on the TV when broadcasting video?
Check the volume settings on your TV. Also, some apps (such as Netflix or Disney+) block audio output when using third-party screens due to DRM protection. In such cases, only the built-in Chromecast feature within the app can help.
Does broadcasting affect the picture quality on the phone itself?
Yes, the phone's screen resolution may be reduced by the system to save processor resources, as it must encode the video stream in real time. This is normal and does not affect the image quality on the TV.
Does Honor 5G support image transmission?
All modern Honor smartphones, including the 5G-enabled series, have built-in wireless projection. 5G connectivity doesn't affect the ability to broadcast, as the Wi-Fi module is used.