How to connect your iPhone to a smart TV: Mirroring made simple

Do you want to enjoy your favorite iPhone videos, photos, and apps on a bigger screen? 

Connecting your iPhone to a smart TV is easier than ever regardless of the device you use, whether it is a Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, Roku, or Chromecast-enabled TV. You can use multiple ways to mirror or stream your iPhone display wirelessly or with a cable.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to connect your iPhone to any smart TV using AirPlay, HDMI adapters, Chromecast, Roku, and popular third-party mirroring apps. We’ll walk you through each method step by step so you can start watching, gaming, or presenting from your iPhone on the big screen in minutes.

How to connect your iPhone to a smart TV

Apple’s built-in AirPlay technology allows you to stream or mirror content to compatible TVs. Many modern smart TVs such as Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL smart TVs already support AirPlay, so you don’t need an Apple TV device. Here are all the methods and step-by-step guides on how to connect an iPhone to a smart TV.

1. Check your smart TV’s compatibility

Before connecting, verify that your smart TV supports AirPlay.

• For Apple TV users: Any Apple TV device supports AirPlay by default.
• For Smart TVs: Check your TV’s manual or settings for an AirPlay option. Common models include Samsung Smart TVs (2018 and newer), LG Smart TVs (2019 and newer), Sony Bravia TVs (2019 and newer), and Roku TVs (selected models).

If your TV is not AirPlay-enabled, you can still mirror your iPhone using a cable or streaming services like Chromecast or Roku.

2. Connect the iPhone to a smart TV using AirPlay

AirPlay is the easiest and most popular method for iPhone users. Follow these steps:

1. Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network. Ensure your iPhone and smart TV (or Apple TV) are on the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Open the Control Centre on your iPhone. On iPhone X or newer, swipe down from the top-right corner, while on iPhone 8 or older, swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
3. Tap ‘Screen Mirroring’. The iPhone will search for nearby devices.
4. Select your smart TV or Apple TV. Choose your TV’s name from the list.
5. Enter the AirPlay code (if prompted). Your TV will display a code— enter it on your iPhone to connect.
6. Enjoy your iPhone on the big screen. Once connected, your iPhone display will appear on the TV.

To stop mirroring, simply open Control Centre again and tap Stop Mirroring.

3. Connect the iPhone to a TV using an HDMI adapter

If your smart TV does not support AirPlay, you can use a wired connection. Apple’s Lightning Digital AV Adapter lets you connect your iPhone to your TV via HDMI.

Here is how:

1. Plug the Lightning end into your iPhone. Connect the adapter to your iPhone’s charging port.
2. Connect an HDMI cable to the adapter. Use a standard HDMI cable and plug one end into the adapter.
3. Connect the other end to your TV’s HDMI port. Choose any available HDMI port on your TV.
4. Select the HDMI input on your TV. Use your remote to switch to the correct input.
5. Start streaming or mirroring. Your iPhone screen should now appear on your TV instantly.

This method provides a stable connection, perfect for long viewing sessions, gaming, or presentations.

4. Connect the iPhone to a smart TV using Chromecast

Chromecast is a streaming device by Google that also supports iPhone mirroring through certain apps. While it does not use AirPlay, it’s still an excellent wireless option.

To connect:

1. Plug Chromecast into your TV’s HDMI port. Ensure it’s powered and set up using the Google Home app on your iPhone.
2. Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi. Your iPhone and Chromecast must share the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Open a Chromecast-supported app. Apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify support Chromecast.
4. Tap the cast icon. Select your Chromecast device from the list.

our chosen video or app will play directly on your TV, controlled by your iPhone.

5. Connect the iPhone to a smart TV using Roku

Roku offers another smart and affordable way to mirror your iPhone screen.

1. Install the Roku app on your iPhone from the App Store.
2. Ensure both devices share the same Wi-Fi Network.
3. Open the Roku app, go to Devices, then to Your Roku TV.
4. Select Media or Screen Mirroring option.

Roku’s app allows you to cast photos, videos, or even mirror your entire screen easily.

6. Use third-party mirroring apps

If your TV does not support AirPlay, and you do not have extra devices like Apple TV or Chromecast, there are third-party apps designed for iPhone-to-TV mirroring.

Some popular options include:

• ApowerMirror
• LetsView
• AirBeamTV
• TV Assist

Steps to use these apps:

1. Download the app on your iPhone (and on your TV if required).
2. Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi.
3. Launch the app and select your TV from the device list.
4. Grant permission for screencasting.

These apps often come with extra features like file sharing and media playback customisation.