AirPlay lets you stream video and audio from an Apple device to a TV wirelessly. To use it, you need a compatible receiver: an Apple TV, a smart TV with AirPlay 2, or a streaming device like Roku. Here is exactly how to set it up and what to do when it does not work.
What You Need Before You Start
AirPlay requires two things: a source device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) and a destination TV or box that supports AirPlay. The source device must be on the same Wi-Fi network as the destination. Bluetooth alone does not work for AirPlay video.
Apple TV is the most reliable receiver, but many modern TVs from Sony, LG, Samsung, and Vizio include AirPlay 2 support. Most new TVs with AirPlay are smart TVs, so understanding what a smart TV is helps clarify why older models may not support it. If your TV lacks built-in AirPlay, you can add a streaming stick or box that supports it. Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and some Google TV devices include AirPlay compatibility.
Check your TV’s settings or user manual for “AirPlay” or “Screen Mirroring.” If you are shopping for a new TV, how to choose a TV that meets your needs includes checking for AirPlay 2 support in the specs.
How to AirPlay from an iPhone or iPad
The process is nearly identical on both devices. Make sure your iPhone or iPad is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the TV or streaming box.
- Open the app that contains the video or audio you want to stream. This works with Apple TV+, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and most other streaming apps. It also works with Safari and the Photos app for playing local videos.
- Tap the AirPlay icon. It looks like a rectangle with a triangle at the bottom. On some apps, you may need to tap a Share or Cast button first, then select AirPlay.
- Choose your TV or Apple TV from the list of available devices. The video should start playing on the TV within a few seconds.
- To mirror your entire screen (for apps that do not support AirPlay directly), open Control Center, tap the Screen Mirroring button (two overlapping rectangles), and select your TV. Your iPhone or iPad display will appear on the TV.
To stop AirPlay, tap the AirPlay icon again and select “iPhone” or “iPad, ” or tap the Screen Mirroring button and choose “Stop Mirroring.”
How to AirPlay from a Mac
Macs running macOS Monterey or later support AirPlay to a TV natively. Older versions may require a third-party app.
- Click the Control Center icon in the menu bar (the two toggle switches).
- Click “Screen Mirroring.” A list of available devices appears.
- Select your TV or Apple TV. Your Mac’s display will appear on the TV. By default, the TV shows a mirrored version of your Mac screen.
- To stream just a video from a browser or app, look for the AirPlay icon within that app (often in the playback controls) and select your TV. This uses AirPlay video streaming rather than full screen mirroring, which usually provides better quality and battery life.
To stop, click the Screen Mirroring icon again and choose “Turn Off, ” or use the AirPlay icon in the app.
AirPlay to a TV Without Apple TV
If you do not own an Apple TV, you can still use AirPlay with compatible smart TVs or streaming devices. Most major brands support AirPlay 2, including:
- Samsung (2018 and later models)
- LG (2019 and later)
- Sony (2019 and later)
- Vizio (2019 and later)
- Roku devices (most models from 2020 onward)
- Amazon Fire TV (some models)
- Google TV / Android TV (limited support, varies by manufacturer)
For Roku users, AirPlay is built into Roku OS 9.4 and later. If your Roku does not support AirPlay, you may need to update the software or consider a newer model. A Roku streaming stick is one of the most affordable ways to add AirPlay, and the different models available can help you decide.
For smart TVs, AirPlay is usually enabled by default. If you cannot find it, check the TV’s network settings or look for an “Apple AirPlay” option in the settings menu. Some TVs require you to accept a pairing code the first time you connect.
Common AirPlay Problems and Fixes
AirPlay is generally reliable, but issues do arise. Here are the most common ones and how to solve them.
Device Not Showing Up
This is the most frequent complaint. First, confirm both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. AirPlay will not discover a TV on a different network or subnet. Restart the TV or streaming box and the Apple device. Sometimes simply toggling Wi-Fi off and on on your iPhone or Mac forces a fresh discovery.
Poor Video Quality or Stuttering
AirPlay streams over Wi-Fi, so interference or weak signal can cause problems. Move your router closer to the TV, or reduce the distance between the Apple device and the router. Avoid streaming 4K HDR content over a congested 2.4 GHz network; use 5 GHz if possible. If you have a mesh network, make sure both devices connect to the same node.
Audio but No Video
This usually happens when an app does not support AirPlay video streaming. Try using Screen Mirroring instead of the in-app AirPlay button. If that works, the app may have a bug. Alternatively, the TV may not support the video codec of the content. Most modern TVs handle common formats, but older ones may fail with certain file types.
AirPlay Not Working on Samsung TV
Samsung TVs are generally reliable with AirPlay, but occasional glitches occur. Restart the TV and the Apple device. Ensure the TV’s firmware is up to date. If AirPlay still fails, reset the network settings on the TV. For Samsung TV owners, what to do when your smart TV acts up covers additional steps that may resolve AirPlay issues.
AirPlay Disconnects Randomly
This is often a Wi-Fi stability issue. Check for interference from other devices, or try a wired Ethernet connection for the TV or Apple TV if possible. On the Apple device, close background apps that may be using the network heavily.
FAQ
Do I need an Apple TV to use AirPlay?
No. Many smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio have built-in AirPlay 2 support. Streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV also support AirPlay. Apple TV is just one option.
Can I AirPlay to a TV without Wi-Fi?
No, AirPlay requires both devices to be on the same Wi-Fi network. There is no peer-to-peer mode for video streaming. For audio-only, AirPlay can use Bluetooth in some cases, but video always needs Wi-Fi.
Does AirPlay work with Android devices?
Not natively. AirPlay is an Apple protocol. Android users can use Google Cast (Chromecast) or third-party apps that mimic AirPlay, but those are not officially supported and may have limited functionality.
Why does my TV not appear in the AirPlay list?
Check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and that the TV supports AirPlay. Restart both devices. If your TV is a model from before 2018, it likely does not support AirPlay without an external box.
Can I AirPlay to multiple TVs at once?
Yes, with AirPlay 2 you can stream to multiple compatible speakers or TVs simultaneously. This works with Apple TV 4K and some smart TVs. You can select multiple destinations in Control Center on iPhone or in the AirPlay menu on Mac.