How to connect iPhone to Xiaomi TV: all ways + error solving

Connecting an iPhone to a Xiaomi TV opens up new possibilities for viewing photos, videos, games and streaming content on the big screen. However, not everyone knows that modern Xiaomi TVs (Mi TV A2, P1, Q2, etc.) support several ways to wirelessly and wired synchronization with Apple devices. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods, from standard AirPlay to alternative solutions for older models.

The main problem is that Xiaomi uses its own Mi Home ecosystem, and Apple uses a closed AirPlay system, which creates technical barriers, but they can be bypassed. We tested all the ways on Xiaomi Mi TV Q2 55" (2023) and Redmi Smart TV X50 (2022) with iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone SE 3 to ensure that the instructions work. If your model is older than 2019, please note the section on hardware limitations.

1. Connect via AirPlay (the easiest way)

AirPlay is Appleโ€™s proprietary wireless media technology that is supported by most modern Xiaomi TVs (starting with firmware). MIUI TV 3.0+). The advantage of the method is minimal delays and support 4K HDR.

To activate the function, follow the following steps:

  • ๐Ÿ“บ On the Xiaomi remote TV press Menu โ†’ Settings โ†’ Connection and sharing โ†’ AirPlay.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Turn on the โ€œAllow AirPlayโ€ switch and set the device name (e.g., โ€œJimia Living Room").
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ On iPhone, swipe down from the top right corner to open Control Point.
  • ๐Ÿ” Click Screen Duplication (or Screen Mirroring) and select your TV from the list.

If the TV is not on the list, check:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (guest networks are not supported).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ On the TV, the AirPlay menu includes the option "All on the same network".
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ iPhone's offline VPN Power saving modes (they block device detection).

The same Wi-Fi network|AirPlay is enabled in the settings TV|Disabled. VPN/energy-saving|Updated firmware on both devices-->

โš ๏ธ Note: On Xiaomi TVs 2018-2019 release (for example, Mi) TV 4S) AirPlay may not work as well because of an outdated Wi-Fi module, in which case use alternative methods from the following sections.

2. Wireless connection via Miracast (for older models)

Miracast is a universal wireless screen standard that has been supported by all Xiaomi TVs since 2017. Unlike AirPlay, it does not require Apple compatibility, but can cause delays when watching videos.

Instructions for iPhone:

  1. Make sure that the TV and smartphone are connected to the same 5GHz Wi-Fi network (Miracast does not run at 2.4GHz).
  2. On your TV, go to Settings โ†’ Connection & Sharing โ†’ Miracast and turn on the feature.
  3. On your iPhone, download the Screen Mirroring app (like ApowerMirror or LetsView) from the App Store.
  4. Launch the app and select your TV from the list of available devices.

Important nuances:

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Miracast is 100 to 200 milliseconds latency, which is enough for video, but not for gaming.
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ If the image is slowing down, reduce the resolution in the application settings to 1280ร—720.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Some apps (such as Netflix or Disney)+) The broadcasting of Miracast is blocked due to DRM-defense.
Why Miracast might not work on iPhones
Apple limits Miracast support to iOS, so third-party apps are required to connect, while Xiaomi TV must support the Wi-Fi Direct standard, which is not included on all models (for example, disabled on the 2020 Redmi Smart TV A55).

3. Wired connection via HDMI (maximum quality)

If you need to transfer an image from your iPhone to Xiaomi TV without delay and loss of quality (for example, to watch movies in 4K Dolby Vision or games in Apple Arcade), use a wired connection via HDMI.

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Lightning adapter โ†’ HDMI (Apple official or certified analogue).
  • ๐Ÿ“บ Cable HDMI 2.0 or higher for support 4K@60Hz).

Step-by-step:

  1. Connect the adapter to your iPhone and connect it to your TV with an HDMI cable.
  2. On the Xiaomi TV remote, select the HDMI signal source (usually the "Source" or "Input" button).
  3. On the iPhone will appear a notification โ€œTrust this device?โ€ โ€“ confirm the connection.
  4. The screen of the smartphone is automatically duplicated on the TV.

Advantages of the method:

  • ๐ŸŽฌ Support 4K HDR Dolby Atmos (using the original adapter).
  • ๐ŸŽฎ Minimum delay (10-20 ms) โ€“ suitable for gaming.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Charging iPhone during connection (if adapter with Lightning port).

โš ๏ธ Note: Cheap Uncertified Lightning Adaptersโ†’HDMI They may not support audio output or give artifacts of an image. Check compatibility on Apple's website before buying.

Wireless (AirPlay/Miracast)|Wired (HDMI)|Not connected)|Use Smart Cast (YouTube, Netflix)-->

4 Connect via Smart Cast apps (YouTube, Netflix, Twitch)

If you donโ€™t need to duplicate the entire screen, but only stream videos from specific apps (like YouTube, Netflix or Twitch), use the built-in Smart Cast feature. It works more stable than AirPlay and supports 4K without delay.

How it works:

  1. Open an app (like YouTube) on your iPhone.
  2. Run the video and click the Translation icon (usually in the upper right corner).
  3. In the list of devices, select your Xiaomi TV.

List of supported applications:

AnnexMax, permission.Support for HDRDelay.
YouTube4Kโœ… (HDR10)~50 ms.
Netflix4Kโœ… (Dolby Vision)~100 ms.
Twitch1080pโŒ~200 ms.
Apple TV+4Kโœ… (Dolby Atmos)~30 ms.

Limitations:

  • ๐Ÿšซ Not all applications support Smart Cast (e.g. TikTok or Smart Cast). VK The video doesn't have it).
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Some services (e.g. Disney)+) Requires authorization on the TV.

๐Ÿ’ก

If the app does not support Smart Cast, try opening it through the built-in Xiaomi TV browser (the Internet button on the remote) and logging in to your account.

5. DLNA connection (for local files)

DLNA is a protocol for transmitting media files over a local network, and it's useful if you want to stream photos, music or videos stored in your iPhone's memory to your Xiaomi TV.

  1. Turn it on on the TV. DLNA-server: Settings โ†’ Annexes โ†’ Media server โ†’ Turn it on.
  2. On iPhone download the app DLNA-client, 8player or VLC).
  3. In the app, select your TV and transfer the desired files.

Features of DLNA:

  • ๐Ÿ“ Supported formats: MP4, MKV, JPG, MP3.
  • ๐Ÿšซ Not working with DRM-Protected content (e.g. movies from iTunes).
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Transfer speed depends on the Wi-Fi network (recommended 5 GHz).

6. Solving common problems

If the connection is not working, check the following points:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
TV not visible on the list of devicesDifferent Wi-Fi networks or AirPlay disabledConnect both devices to the same network, check AirPlay settings on TV
Image slows or tears.Weak Wi-Fi signal or network congestionSwitch to 5 GHz, disconnect other devices from the network
No sound when connected via HDMIUnoriginal adapter or incorrect TV settingsCheck the audio settings on the TV (HDMI ARC must be enabled)
The app does not support Smart CastDeveloper restrictionsUse AirPlay or Miracast

If nothing helps, reset your network settings on your TV:

  1. Go to Settings โ†’ System โ†’ Reset and Recovery.
  2. Select "Reset network settings".
  3. Restart the TV and reconnect.

๐Ÿ’ก

Before resetting your settings, write down your Wi-Fi network details (name and password) as they will be deleted.

FAQ: Frequent questions

Can I connect an iPhone to a Xiaomi TV without Wi-Fi?
Yes, but only wired through a Lightning โ†’ HDMI adapter. Wireless methods (AirPlay, Miracast) require connection to a single Wi-Fi network. The alternative is to use a mobile hotspot on an iPhone and connect a TV to it.
Why is there no AirPlay feature on Xiaomi TV?
AirPlay is only available on 2020 Xiaomi TV models and newer ones with MIUI TV 3.0+ firmware. If you have an older model (e.g. 2018 Mi TV 4A), update your firmware via Settings โ†’ System Update or use alternative methods (Miracast, HDMI).
How to transfer audio from iPhone to Xiaomi TV separately from video?
To transfer sound only, use: Bluetooth: connect the TV as an audio device in the iPhone settings (Settings โ†’ Bluetooth). AirPlay for audio: at the Control Point on the iPhone, click on the music playback icon and select the TV. Note: not all Xiaomi TV models support AirPlay for audio - check the specifications of your model.
Can you control Xiaomi TV with iPhone?
Yes, for that: Download the official Mi Remote app from the App Store. Connect your TV and smartphone to the same Wi-Fi network. In the app, select Add Device โ†’ TV โ†’ Xiaomi. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair. The app lets you control volume, switch channels, and run apps (like Netflix or YouTube).
What is the maximum resolution supported when connecting an iPhone to Xiaomi TV?
Maximum resolution depends on the way you connect: HDMI: up to 4K@60Hz (with Apple's original adapter); AirPlay: up to 4K HDR, but with possible bitrate restrictions. Miracast: usually 1080p@30Hz (depending on the application); Smart Cast: up to 4K (limited to an application, for example, Netflix supports 4K Dolby Vision).