Modern multimedia capabilities allow you to display your smartphone's content on a large display without the need for unnecessary wires. Apple ecosystem owners often need to show photos, run a presentation, or simply watch a movie on their TV. LGWireless data transfer technology makes this process as convenient as possible, but it requires proper initial setup of both devices.
For successful synchronization, it is critical that your iPhone and the TV were on the same local network. Protocol AirPlay 2Built into modern LG models, the built-in wireless network ensures stable transmission of high-definition video and audio. However, even with compatible equipment, users may encounter issues that block the connection.
In this guide, we'll walk you through every setup step, from checking firmware versions to resolving complex network conflicts. You'll learn how to activate hidden features, ensure maximum picture quality, and secure your home from unauthorized access to media content.
Hardware and software requirements
Before starting the procedure, you need to make sure that your equipment supports the required wireless communication standards. Most TVs LG with the operating system webOS Versions 4.0 and higher have built-in support for the AirPlay 2 protocol. This means that for older models released before 2018, direct connection via the system menu may not be possible without the use of external adapters.
Your smartphone must be running iOS 12.3 or later, as this is the version Apple began rolling out support for third-party TVs. You can check the current version in the section Settings → General → AboutIf an update is available, the system will offer to install it to improve compatibility.
The key requirement is to use a single Wi-Fi network. Users often encounter an issue where their phone is connected to the 5 GHz band while their TV is on a 2.4 GHz network. Although routers typically combine these bands, in rare cases, manual switching or setting up a guest network is required for the device discovery protocol to function correctly.
- 📺 LG TV with webOS 4.0+ support or built-in AirPlay module.
- 📱 iPhone smartphone with iOS 12.3 or later.
- 📡 Stable connection of both devices to the same Wi-Fi access point.
- 🔌 Optional: a router with 802.11ac support for 4K video transmission.
⚠️ Attention: If your router has the "AP Isolation" feature, devices won't see each other. This option must be disabled in the router settings.
Why don't older LG models detect iPhone?
Older LG TVs (pre-2018) do not have native AirPlay 2 support. You can try using the Miracast (Screen Share) standard for them, but for iPhones, you'll need a third-party app installed on the TV itself via the LG Content Store, or an Apple TV adapter.
Setting up an LG TV to receive a signal
The first step is to activate the receiver function on your TV. In modern models, this option is often enabled by default, but requires confirmation the first time you connect a new device. You'll need to grab the remote. LG and press the button Home or Settings (gear) to get to the main menu.
Next, you should go to the section Connection or find an app Screen ShareIn new webOS interfaces, the function may be called Apple AirPlay and HomeKitOnce in this section, make sure the switch is in the "On" position. The system may prompt you to set an access code or allow the connection without a password—for a home network, it's more convenient to select automatic connection.
If you can't find the corresponding option, try using the search bar in the menu or updating your TV's software. If the feature isn't available, it may indicate that your model doesn't support Apple's native streaming, and an alternative solution will be required.
☑️ Checking TV settings
It is important to note that the name of your TV in the list of available devices will match the name specified in the system settings. LGIf you have multiple smart devices in your apartment, rename your TV to avoid confusion with a speaker or other screen.
Connection via the standard iOS interface (AirPlay)
The easiest and most reliable way to mirror an image is to use the built-in Screen Mirroring feature. To do this, unlock your iPhone and swipe down from the top right corner (or up from the bottom on models with a home button) to open Control center.
Find the icon with two rectangles and click on it. Select your TV's name from the list that appears. LGIf this is your first time using the app, a four-digit code will appear on the TV screen, which you'll need to enter on your smartphone. After successful authentication, the image from your phone will appear on the big screen.
Transmission quality depends on the strength of the Wi-Fi signal. When watching high-definition videos, you may experience brief buffering. In this case, it's recommended to move closer to the router or turn off other devices consuming data.
| Parameter | Description | Recommended value |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol | Transmission technology | AirPlay 2 |
| Permission | Maximum quality | 1920x1080 / 4K |
| Delay | Response time | < 100 ms |
| Audio | Audio format | Stereo / 5.1 |
Using the LG TV Plus app
In situations where native AirPlay is unstable or advanced control functionality is required, manufacturers recommend using a proprietary app. LG TV PlusIt's available for download in the App Store and provides deeper control over your TV settings directly from your smartphone screen.
After installation, launch the app and press the "Search for devices" button. It will scan the network and prompt you to select your TV. To pair, you'll need to confirm the connection on the TV screen by pressing the "Confirm" button on the remote. This creates a secure connection between the device and the TV.
The app includes a "Cast" feature that lets you send photos, videos, and music from your phone's gallery. This differs from the system's AirPlay in that you cast a specific file rather than the entire screen, reducing the strain on your smartphone's battery.
- 📲 Possibility of using a smartphone as a remote control with a touchpad.
- 📂 Direct file transfer from cloud storage to TV.
- 🎮 Game controller support via app.
- 🔊 Separate volume and sound settings controls.
⚠️ Attention: The LG TV Plus app requires local network access permission. If you forget to grant this permission the first time you launch it, the TV search feature won't work. Check your iOS privacy settings.
Alternative methods and third-party applications
If the built-in tools don't work, third-party solutions come to the rescue. There are many repeater apps in the App Store, such as Replica or TV CastThey use screen recording technology and send a video stream to the TV, emulating the native protocol.
Some users prefer to use DLNA servers. By installing a server app on your iPhone, you can share your media library, and your LG TV, with its built-in player, will play the content over the network. This method is ideal for watching large video files, as the TV, not the phone, handles the decoding.
It is also worth mentioning the possibility of using adapters Chromecast or Apple TV, connected via HDMI. Although this requires additional costs, such devices provide the best stability and image quality, regardless of the Wi-Fi router's power.
Diagnostics and Solution (FAQ)
Even with proper configuration, technical issues may still occur. Most often, the problem lies in the network settings cache or a temporary IP address conflict. Restarting the router and both devices resolves 90% of such issues. It's also worth checking whether the router has speed limits set for individual clients.
If there's sound but no image, there may be a problem with the video codec or file format. Try playing a standard video from your gallery. If it works, it means a specific app (such as a streaming service) is blocking image output due to copyright protection (HDCP).
In some cases, resetting the network settings on your iPhone can help. Go to Settings → General → Transfer or reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network SettingsThis action will not delete your data, but will return your network settings to factory defaults.
Why doesn't my LG TV see my iPhone in the list of devices?
Make sure both devices are connected to the same network (SSID). Check if a guest network is enabled on the router, which isolates clients from each other. Also, try temporarily disabling the VPN on your smartphone.
How to improve picture quality over a wireless connection?
Use the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band instead of 2.4 GHz. Make sure there are no thick walls or strong sources of interference (such as microwaves or baby monitors) between the router and your devices.
Can you play iPhone games on your TV?
Yes, but input lag can be noticeable in fast-paced shooters. For a comfortable gaming experience, it's best to use a wired connection or a low-ping streaming box.
What should I do if the sound disappears during a broadcast?
Check your sound settings in Control Center. Make sure the sound output is directed to your TV, not your phone's speaker or Bluetooth headset.