You can put your iPhone's screen or videos onto a TV either wirelessly with AirPlay or with a cable adapter. Wireless is quickest if you have an Apple TV or an AirPlay-compatible TV, while a cable is the most reliable option that works with almost any set.
What you'll need
- An iPhone
- An AirPlay-compatible TV or Apple TV, or an HDMI adapter and cable
Step by step
- Put both devices on the same Wi-FiFor AirPlay, make sure your iPhone and the TV or Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, or screen mirroring will not find the TV.
- Open Control CenterSwipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (or up from the bottom on older iPhones) to reveal Control Center.
- Tap Screen MirroringSelect the Screen Mirroring icon, then pick your TV or Apple TV from the list. Your whole iPhone screen appears on the TV.
- Enter the code if askedThe first time you connect, the TV may show a four-digit AirPlay code. Type it into your iPhone to pair the two devices.
- Or use a cable adapterPlug a Lightning-to-HDMI or USB-C-to-HDMI adapter into your iPhone, connect an HDMI cable to the TV, and switch the TV to that HDMI input.
- Stop mirroring when doneReopen Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring, then choose 'Stop Mirroring', or unplug the cable.
Handy tips
- For streaming apps like Netflix or YouTube, look for the AirPlay or cast icon inside the app to send just the video, which often plays more smoothly than full mirroring.
- Match the adapter to your iPhone's port: older models use Lightning, while recent models use USB-C.
FAQ
Why does my TV not appear in Screen Mirroring?
The TV must support AirPlay and be on the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone. If it does not, use an HDMI adapter and cable instead.
Do I need an Apple TV to connect wirelessly?
Not necessarily. Many recent smart TVs support AirPlay directly. If yours does not, an Apple TV box or a cable will work.
Can I still use my phone while it is mirroring?
Yes. Whatever you do on the iPhone shows on the TV. To keep something private, use the app's own cast option to send just the video instead.