Modern technologies make it easy to turn your smartphone into a powerful multimedia control panel, and screencast is one of the most requested features. If you own a device based on Android and TV LG with support Smart TV, you won't need complicated cables or adapters to transfer images. A stable wireless connection is enough to enjoy photos, videos, and games on a large display.
The main challenge users face is finding the right synchronization method, as manufacturers use different protocols. In the ecosystem LG the most commonly used technologies Miracast (Screen Share) and DLNA, each with its own operating characteristics. Understanding the differences between them will help you avoid problems with delays or no sound.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all available connection methods, from built-in system features to third-party apps. You'll learn how to set up a network, start streaming, and optimize image quality to ensure content displays without stuttering or artifacts.
Preparing equipment and a Wi-Fi network
Before starting setup, make sure both devices are in the same network conditions. This is critical: if your smartphone is connected to the guest Wi-Fi network and your TV is connected to the main network, they simply won't see each other in the list of available devices. Make sure the router is working properly and transmitting a signal at the correct frequency. 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.
Please pay attention to the software version of your TV. LG webOSOlder models may not support the modern codecs or encryption protocols used by your new phone. Go to the settings menu and check for updates to rule out software conflicts.
It's also worth considering your bandwidth. If you're simultaneously downloading large files or streaming 4K content to other devices, your screen sharing may be interrupted. For a smooth experience, we recommend using a router that supports this standard. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or newer.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your router's AP Isolation feature isn't enabled. This feature prevents devices on the network from communicating with each other. This feature is often enabled in public places, but it can also be accidentally enabled at home.
Screen Share (Miracast) method for screen mirroring
The most popular way to broadcast everything that happens on the smartphone screen is by using technology MiracastOn TVs LG This function is often called Screen ShareIt allows you to create a mirrored copy of your phone's display in real time, making it ideal for showing presentations, playing games, or viewing content from apps that don't have built-in Cast support.
To start working, press the button on the remote control. Input or All entrances and select the application Screen ShareOn some models it may be located in the start menu or in the section AdditionallyAfter starting, the TV will go into connection standby mode and display the device name.
On a smartphone Android The process may be called differently depending on the manufacturer's shell. Typically, it is a function Broadcast, Smart View (Samsung), Wireless projector or MirrorShareYou can find it in the notification shade (swipe down from the top) or in the screen settings.
☑️ Check before connection
After searching for devices in the list on your phone, the name of your TV should appear LGTap it to pair. A confirmation message may appear on the TV screen—confirm the connection using the remote. The image from your phone will instantly appear on the big screen.
Using Google Cast (Chromecast built-in)
Many modern models LG equipped with built-in technology support Google CastThis is a more advanced method than simple screen mirroring, as it allows you to send playback commands directly to the TV, freeing up your smartphone's resources. In this case, the phone simply acts as a remote control.
To use this method, make sure you have the app installed on your phone. Google HomeIt will automatically detect all compatible devices on the network. If your TV LG supports Chromecast, it will appear in the list of available devices with a TV icon.
To stream a specific video (for example, from YouTube or Netflix), you don't need to use system settings. Simply open the app with the content, tap the icon Cast (rectangle with waves in the corner) and select your TV. The video will start playing on the TV, and you can use your phone for other tasks or even turn off the screen without interrupting your viewing.
⚠️ Note: Google Cast only works within apps that support it. If you try to cast a video from a file manager app using this method, it may not play, unlike Screen Share, which copies the entire screen.
The advantage of this approach is lower power consumption and the ability to manage the playback queue. Furthermore, picture quality is often higher, as the TV decodes the stream itself using its powerful processors, rather than relying on real-time Wi-Fi data transfer rates.
Stream media via DLNA (LG TV Plus)
If your goal is simply to display photos or play a video file stored on your phone's memory, there is no point in overloading the system with full screen duplication. Protocol DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) was created specifically for exchanging media files between devices on the same network.
Official app from the manufacturer LG ThinQ (previously LG TV Plus) provides a user-friendly interface for managing content. After installation and pairing with your TV (a confirmation code will appear on the TV screen), you can select files from your phone's gallery and send them for playback.
- 📸 Photos: Instantly output high-resolution slideshows.
- 🎬 Video: Support for popular formats without conversion.
- 🎵 Music: Using a TV as an external speaker system.
An alternative could be third-party players such as VLC for Android or BubbleUPnPThey often feature a wider range of codecs and allow you to stream content that standard system tools "don't" recognize. In the player menu, select "Renderer" or "Cast" and specify the target device.
Why does video lag when using DLNA?
Delays can be caused by the file format. If the video is encoded in a rare codec, the TV may not have enough power to decode it on the fly, or the Wi-Fi bandwidth may not be sufficient to transmit the high bitrate. In such cases, it's better to use Screen Share or stream from a computer via a media server.
Comparison of connection methods
Choosing the optimal method depends on your specific needs. Each method has its own technical limitations and advantages. To help you navigate, we've prepared a summary table of characteristics.
| Characteristic | Screen Share (Miracast) | Google Cast | DLNA / ThinQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission type | Screen mirroring | Streaming | File transfer |
| Phone addiction | High (screen active) | Low (can be folded) | Average |
| Picture quality | Depends on Wi-Fi signal | Stable (up to 4K HDR) | Original |
| Sound | Transmitted with video | Transmitted with video | Media only |
As you can see from the table, it is best suited for games and working with documents. Miracast, as it displays the entire screen content. It's ideal for watching movies from online cinemas. Google Cast, and to demonstrate the family photo archive - DLNA.
Quality solution and optimization
Despite the ease of setup, users may encounter issues. The most common is audio and video desynchronization or intermittent image flickering. This almost always indicates wireless signal issues or channel congestion.
Try rebooting your router by unplugging it for 10-15 seconds. This will clear the device's memory buffer and select the least congested channel. Also, make sure there are no thick walls or strong sources of interference, such as microwave ovens, between the TV and the router.
If the issue persists, check your phone's power saving settings. Aggressive power saving modes can limit Wi-Fi activity in the background, causing connection drops. Add the streaming app to the exceptions list or select "Performance" mode.
⚠️ Note: The menu interface and item names may differ depending on the operating system version. webOS (3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, and newer) and smartphone models. If you don't see the steps described, check the official documentation for your specific model in the support section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a phone to an old LG TV without Smart TV?
Without Smart TV, you won't be able to connect your phone directly via Wi-Fi, as the TV can't receive the signal. In this case, you'll need to purchase an external set-top box (such as Chromecast, Mi Stick, or Android Box) that plugs into the HDMI port and adds the necessary features.
Why is there no sound when broadcasting via Screen Share?
This may be due to DRM (copyright protection) restrictions in some apps that block audio capture during screen mirroring. Also, check that the volume on your phone itself isn't turned down, as it frequently syncs with Miracast.
Does broadcasting affect internet speed?
Yes, local traffic between your phone and TV doesn't consume your internet provider's bandwidth, but it does put a strain on the Wi-Fi network itself. If the bandwidth is limited, internet speeds on other devices may temporarily decrease.
How do I exit broadcast mode?
On your phone, it's usually enough to unlock the screen, open the notification panel, and press the "Disconnect" or "Interrupt Broadcast" button. On your TV remote, you can simply switch to another signal source (HDMI, terrestrial TV).