Modern users rarely limit themselves to viewing content solely on their smartphone screen. There's often a pressing need to display high-quality photos, videos, or games from their iPhone on a large TV screen. LG Smart TVWireless data transfer technology allows you to do this without unnecessary wires, using the capabilities of a local network or a direct connection. However, many users confuse the concepts, believing that the function Wi-Fi Direct On LG TVs it works identically to the Apple AirPlay system, which is not entirely correct.
In this article, we'll cover all the nuances of connecting Apple devices to LG appliances, explain the difference between a direct connection and using a router, and provide step-by-step instructions for various operating system versions. You'll learn how to set up HomeKit Or use proprietary apps for stable media streaming. Understanding these differences will help you avoid errors and enjoy high-definition content without lag.
Understanding the Tech: Wi-Fi Direct vs. AirPlay 2
The first thing you need to understand for successful setup is the fundamental difference in data transfer protocols. Wi-Fi Direct — is a standard that allows devices to connect directly to each other without the need for a router. LG TVs use this technology for the function Smart Share or Screen Share, which is based on the Miracast protocol. The problem is that iOS (the iPhone's operating system) doesn't natively support Miracast, as Apple promotes its own standard.
On the other hand, technology AirPlay 2, developed by Apple, allows you to stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to compatible TVs. Modern LG models (2018-2019 and newer) have built-in AirPlay 2 support, meaning you don't need a separate Apple TV adapter to connect. However, if your TV is older and doesn't support AirPlay, using pure Wi-Fi Direct for iPhone will be impossible without third-party intermediary apps.
Why can't my iPhone see my TV in Wi-Fi Direct mode?
The iPhone ignores connection requests via the Miracast protocol, which older LG TVs use for Screen Share. This requires either built-in AirPlay 2 or a dedicated receiver app (such as TV Cast or AirBeam) installed on the TV, which emulates Apple's signal reception.
It's also important to note the role of your home router. For AirPlay 2 to work, both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network. Unlike classic Wi-Fi Direct, where the TV creates its own access point, the router acts as an intermediary. This ensures a more stable connection and the ability to control the TV via an app. Apple HomeIf the router has an AP Isolation feature, the connection may fail, so network security settings also play a role.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before setting up, make sure your equipment meets the minimum requirements. Not all LG TV models support native iPhone playback. First, check your TV model. AirPlay 2 support is available on OLED (B4, C4, D4, G4, and earlier C8-G9), NanoCell, and UHD (UM, UN, UQ, and other series) models released in 2018 and later.
Be sure to update the software on both devices. On your iPhone, go to Settings and check for iOS updates—for stable AirPlay 2 functionality, iOS 12.3 or later is required. On your LG TV, you need to update the webOS firmware. You can do this through the Settings menu by selecting All settings → General → About TV → Check for updatesOutdated software is often the reason why devices simply "don't see" each other.
It's also worth paying attention to your Wi-Fi router's frequency range. For high-quality video (4K HDR), a 5 GHz network is preferable, as it offers higher throughput and is less susceptible to interference from neighboring networks and Bluetooth devices. If your router broadcasts a single network with combined frequencies (Smart Connect), try temporarily separating them or moving devices closer to the router for initial setup.
Instructions: Connecting via built-in AirPlay 2
This is the most reliable and effective method for owners of modern LG TVs. It ensures minimal latency and high picture quality. Make sure your iPhone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If you have a dual-band router and separate networks (e.g., "Home_2.4" and "Home_5"), both devices must be connected to the same network.
On your LG remote control, press the button Home (house) or the button with three dots to open the launcher. Find the app Apple AirPlay or AirPlay 2 and launch it. A code or message will appear on the TV screen indicating that a connection is pending. If the app isn't found, it may be built into the system—just make sure AirPlay is enabled in the connection settings.
☑️ AirPlay Setup Checklist
Now take your iPhone. Open it. Control center (Swipe down from the upper-right corner on models with Face ID or swipe up on models with a button). Tap the "Screen Mirroring" icon (two rectangles). Select your LG TV from the list of available devices. If this is your first time using the TV, a 4-digit code may appear on the TV screen. Enter it on your iPhone. Your smartphone's screen will then be mirrored completely on the TV.
To stream videos from apps (YouTube, Netflix, Kinopoisk), you don't need to use screen mirroring. Simply tap the icon AirPlay (rectangle with a triangle) inside the video player and select the TV. This will allow you to use your phone as a remote control without draining its battery by rendering the image, which is handled by the TV itself.
Using the LG TV Plus app to control
If native methods are unstable or you need advanced control, the official app LG TV Plus (formerly LG ThinQ) will be a great assistant. Available for free in the App Store, this app turns your iPhone into an advanced remote control and lets you cast photos and videos from your phone's gallery to the big screen.
After installing the app, launch it and tap "Register Device" or the plus sign to add it. The app will scan the network and find your TV. A permission request will appear on the TV screen. Select "Accept" and confirm the code if it appears. It's important to note that the app requires local network access, which iOS will request upon first launch. Be sure to select "Allow."
| Function | AirPlay 2 (Native) | LG TV Plus (App) | Wi-Fi Direct (Screen Share) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Picture quality | High (up to 4K HDR) | Medium/High | Low/Depends on codec |
| Latency | Minimum | Average | High |
| TV control | Basic | Full (remote control, keyboard) | Broadcast only |
| Work in the background | Possible (for video/audio) | Requires the application to be open | Requires an active screen |
The LG TV Plus app has a "Cast" feature that lets you select photos or videos from your phone's memory and send them to your TV. However, this method isn't suitable for gaming or demonstrating the iOS interface, as it only casts media files, not mirroring the entire screen. Use this method if you need to quickly share a presentation or photos with friends.
Troubleshooting connection and stability issues
Even with proper setup, issues may still occur. If your iPhone can't find your TV, first check your router's firewall settings. Some antivirus programs or router security settings (such as "Child Protection" or "Guest Network") block device discovery protocols (mDNS/Bonjour), which are necessary for AirPlay to work.
⚠️ Note: If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network, devices on it are often isolated from each other. Connect your iPhone and TV to the main network, not the guest network, otherwise they won't be able to physically "see" each other.
Another common issue is time desynchronization. Make sure that the time is synchronized on your iPhone and in the TV settings (section Time and date) the correct values are set. A time difference of even a few minutes can result in security certificate errors when attempting to handshake between devices. Also, try disabling the VPN on your iPhone if it's active, as the virtual tunnel can hide the device from the local network.
If the image flickers or stutters, this indicates a weak signal. Move closer to the router or TV. Interference from microwave ovens and cordless phones can also affect the stability of the signal, especially in the 2.4 GHz band. In this case, switching to 5 GHz solves the problem in most cases.
Alternative methods for older LG models
Owners of LG TVs released before 2018 that don't have built-in AirPlay shouldn't despair. There's a way to use the technology. Wi-Fi Direct Through third-party receiver apps installed directly on the TV from the LG Content Store. Popular apps include "AirScreen," "TV Cast," and "AirBeamTV."
The principle is simple: you install the app on your TV, which emulates an AirPlay receiver. Then, on your iPhone, you connect to this "virtual" device. For example, in the AirScreen app, you need to launch the service, and a new device with the app's name will appear in the AirPlay list on your iPhone. The quality of the streaming will depend on the power of your TV's processor.
You can also use hardware solutions like Chromecast adapters or Apple TV (a separate set-top box). By connecting such a box to the HDMI port of an older LG TV, you instantly gain full support for all modern Apple protocols, offloading the TV's processor and providing a seamless interface.
⚠️ Note: webOS interfaces and menu settings may vary depending on your TV's operating system version. If you don't see this option, check your model's official user manual, as the menu layout changes with each update.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect an iPhone to an LG without a Wi-Fi router?
Yes, but with limitations. Some LG models support Mobile Connection or the ability to create a hotspot directly from the TV, but AirPlay 2 typically requires a shared router. Older TVs can use Wi-Fi Direct via emulator apps that create a direct connection between the phone and TV.
Why is there no sound when connected, only a picture?
Check your audio settings in Control Center on your iPhone (while casting). Make sure the audio output is switched to your LG TV and not left on your phone. Also, check that your TV isn't muted or that your headphones are connected via Bluetooth.
Video is lagging when streaming from iPhone to LG. What should I do?
The problem is most likely related to your Wi-Fi connection speed. Try lowering the video quality in the source app or switching your router to the 5 GHz channel. Also, close unnecessary apps on your iPhone that may be consuming bandwidth or CPU resources.
How do I disable the code request every time I connect?
On your LG TV, go to AirPlay settings (usually in the Apple AirPlay app or in the general connection settings). Find the "Require code" option and change it to "First time" or "Disable." Be careful, as this will allow any device on your network to connect to the TV without permission.