Showing vacation photos, playing a YouTube video for the family, or watching a show from your phone on the big screen — it's easy once you know which method your TV supports. Here are all the options.
Casting vs mirroring: what's the difference?
- Casting: you tap a button in an app (like YouTube or Netflix) and the TV streams the video itself. Your phone just acts as a remote. Best quality, and you can use your phone for other things.
- Mirroring: your TV shows exactly what's on your phone screen. Good for photos, websites and apps that don't support casting, but uses more battery.
Method 1: Casting (Google Cast)
Many TVs and devices have Google Cast built in — including Google TV, many Android TVs, and Chromecast devices. Some apps also cast to other smart TVs.
- Connect your phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi.
- Open a supported app (YouTube, Netflix and many more).
- Tap the cast icon (a small screen with Wi-Fi waves).
- Choose your TV.
Works on both Android and iPhone.
Method 2: AirPlay (iPhone and iPad)
Apple TV and many smart TVs from major brands support AirPlay.
- Connect to the same Wi-Fi.
- To cast a video: tap the AirPlay icon in the app.
- To mirror your screen: open Control Center and tap Screen Mirroring, then choose your TV.
- Enter the code shown on the TV if asked.
Method 3: Screen mirroring on Android
Many Android phones can mirror to smart TVs that support it:
- Swipe down to open Quick Settings.
- Tap Smart View, Screen Cast or Screen Mirror (the name depends on your phone brand).
- Pick your TV from the list.
Roku devices and many Fire TV devices also support mirroring from Android — enable it in the device's settings if needed.
Method 4: Use a cable
No Wi-Fi, or a hotel TV that won't connect? A cable always works:
- iPhone: an adapter from your iPhone's port to HDMI
- Android: a USB-C to HDMI adapter (check that your phone supports video output)
Plug the adapter into the TV's HDMI port and switch the TV input. Great for travel — see how to watch your streaming services while traveling.
Troubleshooting
- TV doesn't appear? Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (not a guest network).
- Choppy video? Casting usually looks better than mirroring — use the app's cast button when you can.
- No sound? Check your TV volume and that the phone isn't connected to Bluetooth headphones.
- Black screen with some apps? Some video apps block mirroring for copyright reasons. Use the app's cast button or the TV's own app instead.
Which method should you use?
- Watching a video from an app: cast
- Showing photos or a website: mirror
- No Wi-Fi or a tricky hotel TV: cable
And if your screen feels too small for sharing, our TV size guide helps you choose the right upgrade.
Frequently asked questions
How do I connect my phone to my TV without Wi-Fi?
Use an HDMI adapter cable for your phone. Plug it into the TV's HDMI port and switch to that input.
Can I cast from an iPhone to a non-Apple TV?
Yes. Many smart TVs support AirPlay, and apps with a Google Cast button can cast from an iPhone to Google Cast devices.
Why is my phone not finding my TV?
The phone and TV usually need to be on the same Wi-Fi network. Guest networks and some hotel networks block casting.
Does casting drain my phone battery?
Casting uses very little battery because the TV streams the video. Screen mirroring uses more.
