Why iPhone doesnโt see Xiaomiโs projector and how to fix it
Connecting an iPhone to a Xiaomi projector (whether itโs the Mi Smart Projector 2 Pro, Fimi Stick or Redmi Projector) often becomes a puzzle for users. The main problem lies in the difference in ecosystems: Apple uses proprietary protocols (AirPlay), and Xiaomi relies on Miracast or DLNA in most devices. Direct air connection may not work out โ especially on older projector models (until 2020 release).
In this article, we will analyze all the current ways of connecting - from the classical to the most popular. HDMI-Adapter to workaround solutions through Apple TV smart TV-Separately, we will focus on the unique problem of Xiaomi projectors with iOS 17+, When the device sees the projector on the network, but can't transmit the image because of an encryption conflict.
Before you get to the instructions, check two key things: 1. iOS version on your iPhone (in Settings โ General โ About this device). 2. Xiaomi projector model โ some budget models (such as Mi Smart Projector Lite) do not physically support AirPlay.
Method 1: Connecting through a wired HDMI-Adapter (the most reliable adapter)
If you need a stable connection without delay (for example, for presentations or games), the wired method remains the best choice.
- ๐ Lightning โ HDMI Adapter (official from Apple or certified, for example, Anker or Baseus).
- ๐บ HDMI-cable (usually complete with projector).
- โก Power supply for the adapter (if additional power is required).
Step-by-step:
- Connect the Lightning adapter connector to the iPhone.
- Connect the adapter to the projector through HDMI-cable.
- Turn on the projector and select the HDMI signal source (usually the Source button on the remote).
- The iPhone will be notified โTrust this device?โ
โ ๏ธ Note: iPhone 15 and newer used USB-C Instead of lightning, you will need to USB-C โ HDMI Adapter (e.g. Apple) USB-C Digital AV Also note that some low-cost adapters don't support video output to 4K โ Check the specifications before buying.
The adapter supports your iPhone model.|Cable HDMI intact|Projector is on the grid.|iPhone has enough charge (minimum 20%)-->
Method 2: Wireless connection via AirPlay (if the projector supports)
Not all Xiaomi projectors have built-in AirPlay support, but some flagship models (such as the Mi Smart Projector 2 Pro or Fimi Projector 4K) can work with it after a firmware update.
- Open the projector settings and find the Wireless Transfer or Screen Mirroring section.
- Activate the AirPlay option (could be called Apple Mirroring).
- On your iPhone, swipe down from the top right corner to open Control Point.
- Click Screen Duplication (or Screen Mirroring) and select your projector from the list.
If the projector doesnโt appear in the list, try the following steps:
- ๐ Reboot both the projector and the iPhone.
- ๐ถ Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network (the projector does not have to be in Hotspot mode).
- ๐ง Update the projector firmware to the latest version (in Settings) โ System system โ Update of the PO).
What if AirPlay is connected but there is no sound?
โ ๏ธ Attention: On iOS 17+ You may have a "failed to connect to [projector name]" error due to a security protocol conflict, and resetting your network settings to your iPhone (Settings) will help. โ Mainstream โ Transfer or discharge โ Reset network settings, but it will delete all saved Wi-Fi passwords.
Method 3: Using Miracast through third-party apps
If your Xiaomi projector doesn't support AirPlay, but there's Miracast, you can use bridge apps.
- ๐ฑ ApowerMirror โ supports screen duplication on Miracast devices, but requires a connection to a single Wi-Fi network.
- ๐ฅ๏ธ LetsView โ Free solution with minimal delays, suitable for presentations.
- ๐ฎ Screen Mirroring+ โ supportive 1080p Low latency (relevant to gaming).
Instructions for ApowerMirror:
- Install the app on your iPhone and turn on Miracast on the projector (Settings โ Wireless Transfer โ Miracast).
- Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Run ApowerMirror on your iPhone and select "Mirror to TV".
- In the list, find your projector (may appear as MI-XXXX) and confirm the connection.
๐ก Useful tip: If the image is slowing down, reduce the resolution in the application settings to 720p Or activate Low Latency (if available), and close all background apps on your iPhone โ they can consume CPU resources.
| Annex | 4K support | Delay (MS) | Free of charge. | Requires Wi-Fi. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ApowerMirror | โ (max. 1080p) | 80-120 | โ (watermarked) | โ |
| LetsView | โ (max. 1080p) | 60-100 | โ | โ |
| Screen Mirroring+ | โ | 40-70 | โ (from $5) | โ |
| AirServer (on projector) | โ | 30-50 | โ (from $20) | โ (It's on a local network) |
Method 4: Connecting through Apple TV Android TV-prefix
If you have an Apple TV or an Android TV set-top box (like the Xiaomi Mi Box S), it can be used as a middleman to display an image from your iPhone to a projector, which guarantees minimal latency and 4K HDR support.
For Apple TV:
- Connect the Apple TV to the projector via HDMI.
- On the iPhone, open the Control Point โ Duplicate the screen.
- Select your Apple TV from the list.
For Android. TV-consoles (e.g. Mi Box):
- Install the AirScreen or ApowerMirror Receiver app.
- Launch the app and follow the instructions on the screen to connect.
- On iPhone, use ApowerMirror or built-in screen duplication (if the console supports AirPlay).
โ ๏ธ Attention: When using Android TV-There may be a problem with protected content (e.g. Netflix or Disney).+). These services block output through third-party apps to duplicate the screen, so the solution is to use official service applications on the console itself.
๐ก
Apple TV Provides the most stable wireless connection, but requires additional costs. TV-Configures are cheaper, but may have problems with protected content.
Method 5: Connect via USB-C/Lightning (for new models)
Some Xiaomi projectors (e.g. Fimi Projector 4K 2023) support direct USB-C connectivity.
- Use the Lightning โ USB-C cable (for iPhones up to 14) or USB-C โ USB-C cable (for iPhone 15).
- Connect your iPhone to the projector.
- On the projector, select the USB-C source from the Source menu.
- On the iPhone, confirm a trusted connection.
๐น Limitations:
Not all projectors support video transfer over USB-C (usually charging only).
- It may be necessary to include a regime "USB-Debugging" on iPhone (in Settings โ Mainstream โ Reset โ Reset location and privacy, then connect the cable again).
The sound may not be transmitted, in which case use external speakers.
Problem Solving: Frequent Errors and Corrections
Even with the right connection, there can be failures.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The projector does not appear in the AirPlay list | Different Wi-Fi networks or outdated firmware | Connect both devices to the same network, update the projector |
| Image brakes/tears | Weak Wi-Fi signal or network congestion | Use 5 GHz Wi-Fi or a wired connection |
| No sound when dubbing | The sound is redirected to another device (headphones) | Turn off Bluetooth devices on your iPhone |
| Black screen when connected via HDMI | Incompatible Adapter or Permits | Try a different adapter or change the resolution on the projector |
๐ก Advice for owners of old projectors: If your Xiaomi does not support either AirPlay or Miracast, but there is a DLNA, try out TV Assist (from Xiaomi) allows you to broadcast only media files (photos, videos), but not the entire screen.