Apple TV allows users to stream content from various devices, making it easy to watch videos, share presentations, or listen to music on a larger screen. While Apple devices offer seamless AirPlay integration, casting from Windows or Android requires additional steps.
This guide explains how to cast to Apple TV from an iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows, and Android, along with troubleshooting steps if casting does not work.
How to Cast to Apple TV from iPhone or iPad
iPhones and iPads use AirPlay to wirelessly cast content to Apple TV.
Using AirPlay for Screen Mirroring
- Connect the iPhone or iPad to the same Wi-Fi network as Apple TV.
- Open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen.
- Tap Screen Mirroring.
- Select Apple TV from the list of available devices.
- The device’s screen will be displayed on the TV.
Using AirPlay for Streaming Specific Content
- Open a video or music app that supports AirPlay, such as YouTube, Apple Music, or Netflix.
- Tap the AirPlay icon in the video player.
- Select Apple TV from the available devices.
- The content will start playing on Apple TV.
How to Cast to Apple TV from Mac
Mac computers also support AirPlay for both screen mirroring and streaming.
Using AirPlay for Mac Screen Mirroring
- Ensure the Mac and Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Click the Control Center icon in the menu bar.
- Select Screen Mirroring and choose Apple TV.
- The Mac screen will appear on the TV.
Casting Videos from Safari on Mac
- Open Safari and play a video that supports AirPlay.
- Click the AirPlay icon in the video player.
- Select Apple TV to cast the video.
How to Cast to Apple TV from Windows PC
Windows computers do not have built-in AirPlay support, but third-party apps enable casting.
Using Third-Party Apps for Windows to Apple TV Casting
- AirParrot: Allows mirroring and media streaming from Windows to Apple TV.
- 5KPlayer: Supports AirPlay for Windows and enables video and music casting.
- LonelyScreen: Turns a Windows PC into an AirPlay-compatible device.
Steps to Cast from Windows Using AirParrot
- Download and install AirParrot on the Windows PC.
- Connect the Windows computer and Apple TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open AirParrot and select the screen or app to mirror.
- Choose Apple TV as the destination.
How to Cast to Apple TV from Android Devices
Android devices do not have native AirPlay support, but third-party apps allow casting.
Using Third-Party Apps for Android to Apple TV Casting
- AllCast streams photos, videos, and music from Android to Apple TV.
- AirScreen: Enables AirPlay on Android devices.
- Mirroring360: Allows Android screen mirroring to Apple TV.
Steps to Cast from Android Using AirScreen
- Download and install AirScreen on Apple TV from the App Store.
- Open AirScreen and enable AirPlay support.
- On the Android device, select Screen Cast from Quick Settings.
- Choose Apple TV from the available devices.
How to Cast to Apple TV Without Wi-Fi
Casting to Apple TV usually requires a Wi-Fi network, but peer-to-peer AirPlay allows streaming without Wi-Fi.
Steps for Peer-to-Peer AirPlay
- Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on both the Apple TV and the casting device.
- Disconnect both devices from any active Wi-Fi network.
- Open Screen Mirroring on the Apple device.
- Select Apple TV from the list.
This method is useful for casting in locations where Wi-Fi is unavailable.
Troubleshooting Apple TV Casting Issues
Apple TV Not Showing in AirPlay List
- Ensure the device and Apple TV are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Restart both the Apple device and Apple TV.
- Check if AirPlay is enabled in Settings on Apple TV.
Screen Mirroring Has Lag or Poor Quality
- Move the device closer to the Apple TV to reduce interference.
- Restart the router to improve the Wi-Fi connection.
- Use an Ethernet cable for a more stable Apple TV connection.
No Sound While Casting to Apple TV
- Increase the volume on both the casting device and Apple TV.
- Check Audio Output Settings on Apple TV.
Future Updates for Apple TV Casting
Apple continues to improve AirPlay and Apple TV functionality. Potential updates may include:
- Better support for Windows and Android casting without third-party apps.
- Improved low-latency streaming for gaming and screen mirroring.
- Multi-device AirPlay to allow casting from multiple devices simultaneously.
FAQs
Can I cast to Apple TV without AirPlay?
Yes, third-party apps like AllCast and AirScreen allow casting from non-Apple devices.
Can I cast from an Android phone to Apple TV?
Yes, using third-party apps such as AirScreen or AllCast.
Why is my Apple TV not showing up for casting?
Make sure both the Apple TV and the casting device are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Can I cast YouTube videos to Apple TV?
Yes, YouTube has a built-in AirPlay option that allows direct casting to Apple TV.
Does Apple TV support Google Chromecast?
No, Apple TV does not support Chromecast natively, but streaming apps like YouTube can cast through their in-app options