Modern Smart TV LG TVs offer a wide range of features that transform ordinary TV viewing into a multimedia experience. However, built-in apps can't always play specific file formats or content only available in a mobile browser. This is where wireless image sharing technology comes in, allowing you to use your smartphone display as a remote control and your TV screen as a powerful monitor.
To successfully implement this task, you don't need complicated HDMI cables or special adapters. All you need is for both devices to be on the same local network. Wi-Fi connection Provides high-definition video streaming, which is especially important for viewing 4K content. In this article, we'll cover all available synchronization methods in detail, from native system functions to third-party solutions.
It is worth noting that the setup process may differ slightly depending on the operating system version. WebOS, installed on your TV, as well as your smartphone model. Below are universal methods that cover most usage scenarios.
Basic requirements and equipment preparation
Before you begin setup, you need to make sure your equipment is technically ready for operation. This primarily concerns the network infrastructure. Both devices—and the TV— LG Smart TV, and the mobile gadget must be connected to the same access point Wi-Fi routerUsing a guest network or different frequencies (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) can, in some rare cases, cause problems with device detection, although modern routers usually combine them into a single network.
The second important aspect is software. Make sure your TV has the latest firmware version. Manufacturers regularly release updates that improve protocol stability. Miracast And AirPlay. The check can be performed through the settings menu by selecting the section All settings → General → About TV → Check for updates.
⚠️ Note: If your router is configured for AP Isolation, devices will not see each other on the network. This feature is often enabled in public places, but can be enabled at home as well.
It's also worth checking your smartphone's battery, as active video streaming can significantly accelerate its drain. For longer sessions, it's recommended to connect your phone to a charger.
Using Screen Share (Miracast) on Android
The most common method for Android device owners is the technology Miracast, which LG brands as Screen Share. This protocol enables a direct connection between devices, broadcasting images in real time without the lag typical of some cloud services.
To start working, press the button on the TV remote control. Input or select the shortcut from the list of applications Screen ShareA message will appear on the screen informing you that the TV is waiting for a connection. Some models may require you to allow the connection if a confirmation message appears.
☑️ Check before connecting Screen Share
The next steps depend on your smartphone manufacturer. In the quick settings menu (notification shade), find "Cast," "Smart View," "Projection," or "Connect to a wireless display." After scanning the network, your device should appear in the list. LG TV.
If the automatic search fails, you can use manual setup using a PIN code. A digital code will appear on the TV screen, which you'll need to enter on your smartphone. This ensures you're connecting to your device, not your neighbor's TV in the apartment building.
What should I do if the connection keeps dropping?
If the streaming is interrupted every few minutes, try disabling or enabling the WMM (Wi-Fi Multimedia) feature on your router. Changing the Wi-Fi channel to a less crowded one (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz) may also help.
Stream from iPhone and iPad via AirPlay 2
Owners of Apple technology can take advantage of the built-in function AirPlay 2, which is supported by most modern LG TVs (2019 models and newer, and some earlier models after an update). This ensures native integration without installing additional apps.
The process is very simple: open Control Center on your iPhone (swipe down from the upper-right corner or up from the bottom, depending on your model) and tap the Mirroring icon (two rectangles). Select your TV from the list that appears. LG.
When connecting for the first time, a verification code may appear on the TV screen. Enter it on your iPhone to authorize the device. Afterward, the image from your smartphone will appear on the big screen. It's important to note that AirPlay 2 not only allows you to mirror your screen but also display video from supported apps separately, using your phone as a remote.
| Parameter | Android (Miracast) | iOS (AirPlay 2) | DLNA (Media) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission type | Screen mirroring | Dubbing or media content | Media files only |
| Delay | Minimum | Minimum | Absent |
| Sound | Transmitted with video | Transmitted with video | Audio/video file only |
| Phone interface | Visible on TV | Visible on TV | Hidden (used as a remote control) |
If the AirPlay feature is not working, make sure that in the TV settings under Support → AirPlay The value is set to "On." Also, check whether your router's firewall is blocking the ports required for the Apple protocol.
LG TV Plus app for advanced control
Official app LG TV Plus (formerly LG ThinQ) is a versatile tool for owners of LG devices. It not only allows you to stream media files but also fully control your TV from your smartphone, using it as a touchpad.
To get started, download the app from Google Play or App StoreOnce launched, select "Register a new device" or click the plus sign in the corner. The app will scan the network and offer a list of available TVs. Select yours. LG Smart TV and confirm the pairing by checking the code on the screens.
The app has a separate "Cast" section or a screen icon with an arrow. This allows you to send photos and videos stored on your phone to your TV. The advantage of this method is that the app interface is adapted for horizontal viewing, and you can control playback (pause, rewind) directly from your phone.
Stream media via DLNA and UPnP
If your goal is not screen mirroring, but playing specific video files or photos stored in the smartphone memory, the optimal solution will be the technology DLNAIt allows the TV to see the smartphone as a network storage device.
Most modern file managers and gallery apps have a built-in "Cast" feature or "Cast" icon. Find the desired video file on your smartphone, tap this icon, and select your TV from the list. The video will open in the TV's native player, which often ensures better decoding quality and reduces the load on the phone's processor.
For more advanced users, there are specialized server apps, such as BubbleUPnP or VLC for Android. These allow you to stream virtually any video format that your phone's standard player might not be able to handle, transcoding the stream on the fly.
⚠️ Note: Audio codec formats may vary. If the video plays without sound, try changing the audio track in the player settings or using a third-party player that supports transcoding.
Quality solution and optimization
Despite the simplicity of the technology, users may encounter a number of issues. The most common of these is audio and video desynchronization or image freezing. This almost always indicates Wi-Fi bandwidth issues.
If you are streaming heavy 4K video, make sure both devices are connected to the network. 5 GHzThe 2.4 GHz frequency is often overloaded by neighboring routers and Bluetooth devices, resulting in slower speeds and choppy images. Also, try to reduce the distance between the router and the receiving device.
In some cases, rebooting the router and clearing the app cache on the TV can help. Go to Settings → All settings → General → Storage and clear the data of the application through which the broadcast is being performed.
Why doesn't the TV see the phone in the list of devices?
Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled on both devices. Check if your router is configured to block data exchange between clients. Try rebooting the router. In rare cases, temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall on your smartphone may help.
Is it possible to play games on a phone while displaying the image on a TV?
Yes, when using Miracast or AirPlay, the entire screen is mirrored. However, be aware of input lag. This can be critical for fast-paced shooters or racing games. For turn-based strategy or card games, the lag is unnoticeable.
Is the sound transmitted to external speakers connected to the TV?
Yes, if you use screen mirroring or AirPlay, audio will be output through the TV's audio system or a connected soundbar/speaker. When using DLNA, audio will also be output through the TV.