Wireless streaming of content from iPhone on LG Smart TV through Wi-Fi opens up new possibilities for watching movies, presentations, or playing games on the big screen. However, many users encounter compatibility issues: not all models LG support AirPlay "out of the box", and alternative protocols like Miracast require additional settings. In this article, we'll cover all working connection methods—from standard functions to workarounds for older TVs.
Feature of broadcasting between devices Apple And LG lies in the difference between ecosystems: iOS optimized to work with Apple TV, A LG uses its own platform webOSHowever, manufacturers are gradually integrating cross-platform solutions. For example, televisions LG 2019 and newer supported AirPlay 2 at the firmware level, while earlier models will require third-party apps or adapters. Below is a detailed analysis of each method, taking into account the version. iOS and models LG Smart TV.
1. Check if your LG Smart TV is compatible with AirPlay
Before attempting to screen mirror, please make sure your TV supports it. AirPlayThis feature is available on the following models. LG:
- 📺 2019–2026: all TVs with webOS 4.5 and newer (series OLED, QNED, NanoCell, UK, UN).
- 🔄 2018: only models with webOS 4.0 after updating the firmware (for example, OLED C8, SK8500).
- ❌ 2017 and older: AirPlay is not supported at the system level, alternative methods will be required.
To check the version webOS:
- On the remote control LG click
Settings (⚙)→All settings→General information→TV Information. - Look for the line
webOS version. If the version4.5+, AirPlay should work.
⚠️ Warning: On TVs LG 2018 release with support AirPlay This may vary by region. For example, models for the US market received the update earlier than those for the European market.
If your TV does not support AirPlay, go to section about Miracast or third-party applications.
2. Setting up AirPlay on LG Smart TV (official method)
If your TV supports AirPlay 2, follow this step-by-step guide:
- Connect your TV and iPhone to the same Wi-Fi network. This is a mandatory requirement—the devices must be on the same subnet. Using guest networks or a VPN may block the stream.
- On your TV, go to
Settings (⚙) → All settings → General → Apple AirPlay and HomeKit. - Turn on the switch
AirPlayand set the parameterAccessin positionAll(orJust the first timefor greater security). - On iPhone open Control center (swipe down from the top right corner on models without a button)
Homeor swipe up on old ones iPhone). - Click on the block
Screen mirroring(orScreen Mirroring), select yours LG Smart TV from the list. - When you connect for the first time, the following will appear on your TV: 4-digit code - enter it on iPhone for confirmation.
After successful connection the screen iPhone will be duplicated on a TV with a resolution of up to 1080p (on some models LG OLED Maybe 4K, but with a delay of up to 2 seconds). For broadcasting audio only (for example, music from Apple Music) select TV in the playback menu on iPhone.
☑️ Preparing for AirPlay
3. AirPlay Alternative: Miracast for Older LG Models
Miracast — is a universal wireless broadcast protocol supported by many Android-devices, but not iPhoneHowever, there is a workaround: use adapter or intermediary applicationLet's consider both options.
Method 1: Miracast Adapter for LG TV
If your TV does not support AirPlay, but there is a port HDMI, you can buy an adapter Miracast-to-HDMI (For example, Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter or ScreenBeam). The price of such devices ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 rubles. Connection algorithm:
- Connect the adapter to the port
HDMIon the TV and select the appropriate signal source. - On iPhone install the application Miracast Enabler (For example, ApowerMirror or LetsView).
- Launch the application and select the adapter from the list of available devices.
Method 2: Proxy Applications (without an adapter)
Some applications emulate Miracast through Wi-Fi DirectPopular options:
- 📱 ApowerMirror — supports screen and sound broadcasting, but adds a watermark in the free version.
- 🎮 LetsView - low latency, suitable for gaming, but requires registration.
- 🖥️ TeamViewer QuickSupport — not intended for broadcasting, but can duplicate the screen in remote control mode.
⚠️ Attention: When using third-party applications picture quality It will be worse than with native AirPlay (resolution limited 720p, artifacts are possible with fast movement). For watching movies it is better to use specialized players.
| Method | Delay | Max. permission | Do you need software? | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirPlay (native) | 1–2 sec | 4K (on supported models) | No | For free |
| Miracast adapter | 0.5–1 sec | 1080p | Yes (iPhone app) | 2 000–5 000 ₽ |
| ApowerMirror | 2–3 sec | 720p | Yes | Free (with watermark) |
| LetsView | 1–2 sec | 1080p | Yes | Shareware |
4. Streaming via apps (YouTube, Netflix, Photos)
If duplicating the entire screen is not necessary, you can broadcast separate content (videos, music, photos) directly through apps. This method even works on older TVs. LG without AirPlay.
Method 1: YouTube and Netflix
Many streaming services support the feature "TV broadcast":
- Make sure you have apps installed on your TV YouTube And Netflix (download them from LG Content Store, if absent).
- On iPhone open the application (for example, YouTube) and start the video.
- Click on the icon
Broadcast(📺) in the upper right corner and select yours LG Smart TV.
Method 2: Photos and videos via LG TV Plus
Official app LG TV Plus (available in App Store) allows you to stream media files from iPhone:
- Download LG TV Plus and connect to the same Wi-Fi.
- In the application, select a section
Media→Photo/Video. - Select files to broadcast - they will be displayed on the TV.
Important: When broadcasting via LG TV Plus, video in the format HEVC (H.265) may not play - the application only supports H.264 And MPEG-4.
Why isn't Netflix streaming working?
If the broadcast button is inactive, check:
- The Netflix app on TV has been updated to the latest version.
- The Netflix account is the same on iPhone and TV.
- "AP Isolation" is disabled in the router settings.
5. Troubleshooting connection issues
If the broadcast is not working, please check the following:
- 🔌 Wi-Fi network: The devices must be on the same network.
2.4 GHzor5 GHz(Not mixed!). Some routers separate networks by frequency—connect to one of them. - 🔄 Updates: Check if your TV firmware is up to date (
Settings → General → About TV → Check for updates). - 🔒 Firewall: The router may have a blocking of multicast traffic (needed for AirPlay). Turn it off.
IGMP Snoopingin the router settings. - 📱 iPhone settings: IN
Settings → Wi-Fidisable the optionPrivate Wi-Fi address(may interfere with device detection).
If the problem persists after checking, try resetting the network settings on your TV:
Settings → Network → Reset network settings
⚠️ Note: On some models LG 2020–2021 after network reset AirPlay may disappear from the menu. In this case, the only solution is to reset the TV to factory settings (Settings → General → Reset).
6. Advanced Methods: DLNA and Plex
For broadcast local media files (movies, music) protocols can be used DLNA or server PlexThese methods do not duplicate the screen, but allow you to play content from iPhone on TV without direct screen transmission.
Method 1: DLNA via app
Install on iPhone application 8player Lite or Infuse:
- Turn on DLNA server on TV (
Settings → Network → Remote Access → DLNA). - In the application on iPhone Select TV as the playback device.
- Run the file - it will be broadcasted to LG Smart TV.
Method 2: Plex Media Server
If you have a large collection of movies, set up Plex:
- Install Plex Media Server to a computer or NAS.
- Add folders with media files to the library Plex.
- Install the app on your TV Plex from LG Content Store.
- On iPhone in the app Plex select the file and click
Cast(broadcast) on TV.
Plex supports on-the-fly transcoding, so even files in the format MKV or FLAC will be played without problems.
7. Comparison of methods: which one to choose?
The choice of streaming method depends on the TV model, quality requirements, and intended use. Below is a brief comparison:
| Target | The best method | Requirements | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen mirroring (presentations, games) | AirPlay (or Miracast adapter) | webOS 4.5+, one Wi-Fi network | 1-2 sec delay, no sound in some games |
| Watching movies (Netflix, YouTube) | Broadcasting via apps | Apps for TV and iPhone | Not all services support 4K |
| Local videos/photos | LG TV Plus or Plex | Wi-Fi, iPhone app | Plex requires server setup |
| Older LG models (before 2018) | ApowerMirror or Miracast adapter | Third-party software or hardware adapter | Quality up to 720p, lags are possible |
For most users AirPlay remains the optimal solution, but if the TV does not support this function, ApowerMirror or Plex will be a good alternative for owners of older models LG It's worth considering purchasing Miracast adapter - This is a one-time investment that will solve the compatibility issue.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Why isn't my LG TV showing up in the AirPlay list on my iPhone?
Check:
- Both devices are connected to one Wi-Fi network (not to the guest).
- It's on the TV. AirPlay in the settings (
Settings → General → Apple AirPlay). - The router does not block multicast traffic (disable it)
AP IsolationorIGMP Snooping). - The TV firmware has been updated (for 2018 models) AirPlay could only appear after the update).
If nothing helps, try restarting your router and TV.
❓ Is it possible to mirror an iPhone's screen to an LG TV without Wi-Fi?
Yes, but with restrictions:
- Via Lightning-HDMI adapter (For example, Apple Lightning Digital AV Adapter) - connection via cable, without delays, supports
1080p. - Via USB-C to HDMI (For iPhone 15 and newer) - similar, but requires an adapter with support
DisplayPort Alt Mode.
Wireless methods (AirPlay, Miracast) are working Wi-Fi only.
❓ Why is there no sound when broadcasting via ApowerMirror?
The problem is typical for applications using MiracastSolutions:
- Connect external speakers or a soundbar to your TV via
HDMI ARCoroptical output. - In the application settings (ApowerMirror) turn on the option
Transmit sound to TV(may be calledAudio Mirroring). - Use AirPlay (if supported) - it transmits sound without any problems.
❓ How to mirror your iPhone screen to a 4K LG TV?
Broadcast in 4K is possible only if the following conditions are met:
- TV LG 2020 or newer With webOS 5.0+.
- Used AirPlay 2 (screen mirroring or broadcasting from applications Apple TV+, Netflix).
- The router supports
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)orWi-Fi 6on frequency5 GHz. - In the settings iPhone included
High quality broadcast(Settings → Display & Brightness → Screen Resolution).
When duplicating the screen through AirPlay maximum resolution is usually limited 1080p, A 4K only available for streaming content (e.g. movies in Netflix).
❓ Is it possible to stream games from iPhone to LG TV without lag?
Critical for games low latency (latency). Optimal options:
- AirPlay — delay of ~1–2 sec (acceptable for casual games).
- Lightning to HDMI adapter — latency ~50 ms (better for shooters or racing games).
- Miracast adapter (For example, ScreenBeam) — delay ~100–150 ms.
Recommended for competition or professional gaming wired connection via adapter.