Modern Apple smartphones and Xiaomi TVs work together to stream content to the big screen without any extra wires. However, the customization process is not always obvious to the user who first encountered the Android TV ecosystem on the Chinese brand. Many iPhone owners mistakenly believe that the devices need an Apple TV to communicate, but this is not true.
In this article, weβll look at all the available streaming methods, from AirPlayβs built-in features to third-party apps, how to set up a stable connection and what nuances to consider when choosing a way to transfer data. The right network configuration is the key to comfortable viewing of movies and presentations.
Before you start setting up, make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This is a fundamental requirement for most wireless protocols. If the router is sending out signals at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, try to keep both devices in the same range for better compatibility.
Using the built-in AirPlay feature on Xiaomi TVs
Most modern Xiaomi and Redmi TVs have built-in support for Apple AirPlay 2 technology. This means you donβt need to install additional apps on your smartphone or TV if the model is relatively new.
To activate the standby mode on the TV, go to the app menu. Find an icon called Wireless Display, AirPlay or Miracast. Once the app is launched, the device name and confirmation code will appear on the screen if authorization is required.
- π± Open the control center on the iPhone swipe down from the upper right corner.
- πΊ Press the screen repeat button (two rectangles).
- π Select your TV from the list of available devices.
- β Enter the code that appears on the TV screen if the system requests confirmation.
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the TV is not visible in the list. In this case, check the privacy settings of AirPlay on the TV itself. The Apple AirPlay settings menu should have an All or First Request option, not Nobody.
β οΈ Note: If you use a guest Wi-Fi network in a hotel or office, the broadcast may not work due to the isolation of client devices. AP Isolation.
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For the best image quality when using AirPlay, make sure your router supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or later.
Broadcasting through Mi Remote and the Mi Home ecosystem
The official Mi Remote app (or Mi Remote) is often already installed on Xiaomi smartphones, but iPhone owners can download it from the App Store. Although the main function of the remote is to control the infrared port, the app also has features for working with media content and smart home.
Deeper integration is possible through the Mi Home app, which allows you not only to manage your devices, but also to customize your display scenarios. Once you add your TV to your app, you can use the Translation feature inside the program interface to transfer photos and videos from your phone's gallery.
The process of adding a device to Mi Home is as follows:
- Open the app and log in to your Mi Account.
- Click "+" in the upper right corner to search for devices.
- Choose your TV from the list of gadgets you found.
- Follow the instructions on the screen for pairing.
It is worth noting that the functionality of the application may vary depending on the region chosen when registering an account. For users from Russia and Europe, the interface may differ from the Chinese version, but the basic functions of DLNA and Cast are usually available everywhere.
Applications for third-party applications for DLNA and Cast
If the built-in methods are unstable or your TV is old without AirPlay support, third-party solutions will come to the rescue. The intermediary apps use the DLNA and Google Cast protocols that are found in almost every Smart TV.
One of the most popular solutions is the Web Video Caster app, which allows you to stream video directly from your browser or local files to your TV, you open a video file in the app, you select a playback device, and the stream is transmitted directly to your TV, bypassing the phone's processor.
Other worthy alternatives include:
- π¬ LocalCast β works great with files stored in the memory of the iPhone or the cloud.
- πΊ TV Cast for Xiaomi β a specialized solution with support for various codecs.
- π BubbleUPnP is a powerful tool for advanced users with flexible settings.
When using such programs, it is important to understand the difference between mirroring a screen and simply βtranslatingβ a media file: mirroring duplicates all actions on the phone screen, which puts a strain on the battery, and broadcasting the file allows you to use the phone for other tasks.
β οΈ Warning: Free versions of translation apps often contain ads that may interrupt playback.We recommend using paid versions or Pro versions for comfortable viewing.
Wired connection via Lightning/USB-C to HDMI adapter
For situations where Wi-Fi is overloaded or non-existent, the only reliable option is wired connectivity, which provides minimal latency and maximum picture quality, which is critical for games or presentations.
You'll need a special adapter. For iPhone models up to the 14th series, this is a Lightning to Digital adapter. AV Adapter. For new models with connector USB-C You will need an appropriate adapter USB-C to HDMI. Also, you need a regular one. HDMI-cable.
| Component | Type of connector | Permit supported | Do you need a separate power cable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| The original Apple adapter | Lightning / USB-C | 1080p / 4K | Recommended |
| Third-party adapter | Lightning / USB-C | Depends on the model. | Often required |
| HDMI cable | HDMI Type A | Up to 8K (depending on version) | No. |
Connect the adapter to the phone, insert HDMI-You can then switch the signal source to the TV with the remote control, press the Input or Source button, and select the appropriate port.
Why does the adapter have to be original?
Network setup and fixing connection problems
Even when you set it up properly, you can have crashes, like clip jerks, audio desynchronization, or no device on the list, and most often, the problem is router settings or software conflicts, and the first step is to reboot everyone involved: the phone, the TV, and the router.
Make sure the router doesn't turn on customer isolation (AP Isolation), a security feature that prevents devices within the same Wi-Fi network from communicating with each other, making it impossible for the phone to detect the TV, and also check whether the limit on the number of connected devices is worth it.
If audio is behind video when using AirPlay, try changing the audio settings. In some cases, switching the sampling frequency in the iPhone settings helps, although this is rare, more effectively, bringing the router closer to the TV or using a wired Ethernet connection for the TV itself, if you have the opportunity.
- π Perform a complete reset of network settings on the iPhone (Settings) β Mainstream β Removing or resetting iPhone β Reset β Reset the network settings).
- π‘ Switch the router to only 2.4GHz or only 5GHz mode to check compatibility.
- π Turn it off. VPN On a smartphone, as it can block local traffic.
β οΈ Warning: Antivirus programs or firewalls installed on the router (for example, in Keenetic firmware or in the Internet). ASUS), They can block protocols. DLNA And AirPlay. Temporarily turn off the diagnostic protection.
βοΈ Diagnostics of the compound
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The stability of wireless broadcasting is 90% dependent on the quality of the Wi-Fi signal and the absence of interference in the air, not on the power of the TV.
Comparison of methods and final recommendations
The way you connect depends on your specific tasks. AirPlay is ideal for viewing photos and short videos, which does not require any extra software installation. To view heavy files with codecs that do not support TV, you should use translation applications like Web Video Caster.
Wired connectivity remains the gold standard for demos and games, where every millisecond of latency is important, but it is less convenient for household use due to the need to buy additional adapters and the availability of wires.
The table below compares the main characteristics of the methods:
| Method | Quality. | Delay. | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| AirPlay (Wi-Fi) | High. | Low. | Maximum. |
| DLNA (Annexes) | High. | Medium | High. |
| HDMI (Cable) | Maximum. | Absent. | Low. |
To sum up, the iPhone and Xiaomi TV are among the most flexible on the market. Using modern wireless standards, you can turn a regular TV into a powerful multimedia center. The main thing is to make sure that the software of both devices is updated to the latest versions.