Manual Video Streaming
The simplest way to transfer a video from your iPhone or iPad to a larger screen is to start streaming manually.
Just follow these steps:
- Connect your device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV, an AirPlay-enabled smart TV, or your Mac.
- Open the video you want to play.
- Tap the AirPlay icon. In some apps (such as Photos), you may need to select Share first and then tap the AirPlay icon.
- From the list of available devices, choose your TV or Mac.
To stop streaming, tap the AirPlay icon again and select your iPhone or iPad.
Automatic Video Streaming
AirPlay can be even more convenient. Your iPhone or iPad can automatically connect to your favorite devices.
In the settings, you’ll find three behavior options:
- Never – the device connects only manually.
- Ask – when trying to connect, you’ll receive a notification that you can approve or decline.
- Automatic – the device will connect on its own to the recommended target.
How to set it up:
- Open Settings → General.
- Select AirPlay & Handoff.
- Tap Automatic AirPlay and choose the option you prefer.
Remember, all devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. For Apple TV or HomePod, you also need to be signed in with the same iCloud account.
Screen Mirroring from iPhone or iPad
In addition to streaming videos, you can use AirPlay to mirror your entire screen. This means that your TV or Mac will show exactly what you see on your iPhone or iPad.
Here’s how:
- Connect your device to the same Wi-Fi network as your TV or Mac.
- Open Control Center:
- On iPhone X or later, or on iPad with iPadOS 13 or later, swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen.
- On iPhone 8 or earlier (or with iOS 11 or earlier), swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen.
- Tap Screen Mirroring and select your target device.
- If an AirPlay code appears, enter it on your iPhone or iPad.
To stop mirroring, do the same – in Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring and select Stop Mirroring. If you’re using Apple TV, you can also press the Menu button on the remote.
What to Do if AirPlay Doesn’t Work
Some video playback apps do not support AirPlay. In that case, the feature simply won’t appear in the app. A possible solution is to download the corresponding app directly onto your Apple TV from the App Store, if available.
Summary
AirPlay is a practical tool that lets you transfer content from the small screen of your iPhone or iPad to a larger display. You can choose between manual streaming, automatic connections, or full screen mirroring. All you need is to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, know where to find the right buttons in Control Center, and you’ll be ready for entertainment or presentations in no time.
