Cast iPhone photos and video to a TV

AirPlay works with Apple TV 4K and compatible AirPlay-enabled smart TVs. A TV having Wi-Fi or screen mirroring does not by itself guarantee AirPlay support. Check the TV manual or manufacturer support page for AirPlay 2 compatibility and software requirements. If the TV is not compatible, an Apple TV connected to HDMI is an option, subject to the app and region.

1. Check the TV model’s support page for AirPlay support and update guidance.

   This establishes whether the receiver should appear in the AirPlay list.

   If that does not help: If the model is unsupported, use a supported receiver or a wired transfer method.

2. Put iPhone and TV/Apple TV on the same Wi-Fi network and keep them powered on and nearby.

   Apple lists a shared network and proximity among first checks.

   If that does not help: If the phone uses a guest network or VPN, test a normal home network that permits local device discovery.

For a video, start playback in an app and tap its AirPlay control, then select the TV. For a photo, open Photos, choose an image, tap Share, then AirPlay and choose the receiver. This sends supported content to the TV and may let the phone remain available for controls. Some apps do not support AirPlay; the absence of the button in one app is not proof that the TV is incompatible.

1. Try a photo from Apple Photos, then a video from an app that documents AirPlay support.

   This compares receiver availability with app-specific support.

   If that does not help: If Photos works but one app does not, check that app’s help page or TV app availability.

2. Enter the passcode shown on the TV if prompted.

   The passcode authorizes the receiving device under its current security settings.

   If that does not help: If a passcode repeats unexpectedly, review AirPlay access settings on the receiver.

For an individual photo, the Photos app’s share-to-AirPlay path sends that image; it does not put every phone notification on the television. For a video, use the app’s AirPlay control when available. If the file plays from Photos but a subscription app shows a blank result, check the app’s supported AirPlay behavior and content restrictions rather than resetting the TV. Make sure both devices are on the same ordinary home network; guest-network isolation can prevent discovery even when each device has internet access.

To mirror the whole screen, open Control Center, choose Screen Mirroring, and select the receiver. This is different from sending a supported video directly through its AirPlay button: mirroring shows the iPhone interface and notifications as well. Stop from Control Center when finished, especially on a shared television. Protected video may behave differently from ordinary screen content, and an app may restrict mirroring.

• Remote control vs casting and mirroring

Confirm AirPlay receiving is enabled where the TV platform exposes that setting, update both devices, and restart the sender and receiver. Apple also identifies Home settings that can restrict AirPlay. If the TV appears but playback has no sound, check mute and volume on both phone and TV/receiver. Test with a photo before blaming the network; it reduces variables from streaming-app restrictions.

On iPhone, AirPlay & Continuity settings include automatic discovery behavior such as Ask, Never, or Automatic on supported current software. Choose the behavior that fits a shared home, and stop an active session from the AirPlay or Screen Mirroring control. Do not share a pairing passcode publicly. A TV left available to the household may remain visible to other devices according to receiver settings.

• Apple instructions for AirPlay video, photos, and mirroring — checked 2026-10-24
• Apple AirPlay troubleshooting — checked 2026-10-24

Do all smart TVs support AirPlay?

No. The TV must be an AirPlay-compatible model, or you can connect a supported Apple TV device.

What is the difference between AirPlay and screen mirroring?

AirPlay can send media from a compatible app; Screen Mirroring displays the broader iPhone screen.

Why does a TV appear for photos but not for one video app?

That app may not support AirPlay or may restrict the particular video. Check its official support information.