Apple ecosystem owners often face the desire to broadcast content to the big screen, but integrating iOS with the Android TV platform on which Xiaomi and Redmi TVs are based requires understanding certain nuances. Direct support for AirPlay 2 does not appear on all models at once, and standard data protocols can work unstable without proper network preparation. However, there are several proven methods to achieve high-quality picture and sound, turning your TV into a multimedia center.
In this guide, we will take a closer look at wireless and wired connectivity, focusing on router and TV settings, why Miracast sometimes works better than native solutions, and how to use third-party apps for perfect synchronization. It’s important to understand that connectivity stability depends on the version of MIUI for TV firmware and your Wi-Fi network security settings.
Before we get to specific instructions, we need to make sure that both the smartphone and the TV are in the right state to pair. Often problems arise from the banal desynchronization of Wi-Fi frequencies or outdated software on the TV side. We will look at each step in as much detail as possible so that you can enjoy the content without delay.
Preparatory stage: network verification and updates
The foundation of successful connectivity is the right LAN organization. Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If your router is broadcasting two networks (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), make sure that both the iPhone and Xiaomi TV are connected to one of them, preferably to the 5 GHz bandwidth for high bandwidth when transmitting video to 4K.
On the TV, check for system updates. Manufacturers often release patches that improve compatibility with Apple protocols. Go to Settings → About TV → System Update. If a new version is available, installing it can automatically activate AirPlay support or improve the stability of embedded modules.
☑️ Checking before connection
Also, you should pay attention to the date and time settings. A mismatch between a smartphone and a TV can lead to authorization errors when trying to connect via secure protocols. Make sure that both devices have automatic time synchronization over the Internet.
Using the built-in AirPlay feature on Xiaomi TVs
Modern models of Xiaomi Mi TV and Redmi TV often have built-in support for AirPlay technology, which allows you to stream the screen or media directly from the iOS interface without installing additional software.
To activate, look for the Apple AirPlay or Cast icon in the list of apps on your TV. Once you launch this app, the TV will go into Connection Standby mode. On your iPhone, open Control Point (swipe down from the top right corner or bottom up for models with a button), click Screen Replay, and select your TV from the list.
⚠️ Warning: The first time you connect to your TV screen, you may have a four-digit code that you need to enter on your iPhone to verify trust between devices. Don't ignore this step, as it protects your network from unauthorized access.
If the built-in app doesn't start or see your phone, try changing the settings in the TV menu. Sometimes you need to manually allow unknown devices to connect. The path to settings may vary, but often it's in the Apps → Apple AirPlay → Settings, where you need to activate "Code Required" or select "First Time."
Broadcasting via Google Chromecast and Google Home app
Because Xiaomi TVs are based on Android TV, they have native support for Chromecast technology. It's one of the most stable ways to transfer content, although it works a little differently than the classic AirPlay. Instead of mirroring the entire screen, you stream specific content from apps.
To get started, make sure your iPhone has Google Home installed. Once logged in to your Google account, the app will scan the network and find your TV. Click on the device icon, then select the "Cast my screen" button, and the system will alert you to a possible battery decline, which is normal behavior.
This method is particularly effective for streaming services such as YouTube, Netflix or IVi. The player apps themselves often have a separate broadcast button (a square with waves) that allows you to run the video directly on the TV, using the phone only as a remote, which frees the smartphone and saves its charge.
| Parameter | AirPlay (Integrated) | Google Chromecast | Miracast (Third-Party) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delay (Latency) | Low. | Medium | Tall. |
| Image quality | Great. | Good. | Depends on the network. |
| Working in the background | Possible. | Limited. | No. |
| Difficulty setting up | Low. | Medium | Tall. |
Application of third-party repetitive applications
When the regular funds are down or the functionality is limited, specialized apps from the App Store come to the rescue, leading in this niche are AirScreen, AirPin and Web Video Caster, and they install a virtual receiver on the TV that emulates the work of Apple TV.
The installation process is simple: find an app (like AirScreen) in the Google Play store on the TV itself and install it. QR-If you scan the code with your iPhone camera, you'll be taken to the activation page or you'll start streaming right away. These programs often support more video and audio codec formats than standard tools.
Why can third-party apps slow down?
An important advantage of these solutions is the ability to adjust resolution and bitrate manually, if you notice the desynchronization of sound and video, try to reduce the stream quality in the settings of the replica application or change the buffering, and some applications allow you to control the TV directly from the iPhone lock screen.
Wired connection via Lightning/USB-C to HDMI adapter
For gamers or those who require minimal signal delay, the only correct solution is a wired connection. You will need an official Apple Digital AV Adapter (for Lightning or USB-C depending on the iPhone model) and an HDMI cable.
Connect the adapter to your smartphone, then connect it with an HDMI cable to your TV. On the Xiaomi remote, click the signal source selection button (Input or the arrow square icon) and select the appropriate HDMI port. The image will appear instantly, without the need to configure the network.
⚠️ Note: When using cheap Chinese adapter analogues, the picture may not appear or be black and white. HDCP, Protecting content from copying (for example, Apple) TV+ or paid channels, often blocked by unlyzed adapters.
This is the only way to play games on the big screen with minimal input lag. Wireless technology always delays 0.5-2 seconds, making shooters or dynamic arcades unplayable. In addition, wired connection does not depend on the congestion of the Wi-Fi channel neighbors.
Elimination and optimization of connection
Even with the right setup, there can be crashes. If a Xiaomi TV can't see an iPhone, try restarting your router. Often the problem lies in a crowded table. DHCP conflict IP-Addresses. It also helps to switch Wi-Fi in router settings, especially if you're in an apartment building with multiple networks.
Check the firewall and antivirus settings on the router, if any. Sometimes Child Protection or Guest Network will isolate devices from each other, preventing the discovery protocols needed to find the TV. Make sure both devices are not on the guest network.
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If the sound lags behind the video when wirelessly connected, try in the settings of the Xiaomi TV to turn on the Game mode or turn off all image improvements (noise reduction, dynamic contrast), which will reduce the load on the video processing processor.
If you have a permanent connection break when using AirPlay, try to “forget” the Wi-Fi network on your iPhone and reconnect by entering a password. This will clear the network settings cache. Also make sure that the TV does not run heavy applications in the background, which can consume all available RAM.
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The stability of the wireless connection depends on the quality of the Wi-Fi signal and the absence of interference in the air, so the location of the router plays a critical role.