The integration of Apple’s ecosystem with Android TV devices, which include modern Xiaomi Mi TV and Redmi Smart TVs, often raises questions among users. Despite differences in operating systems, there are several proven methods to stream content from the iPhone to the big screen without delay and loss of quality.
In this guide, we’ll look at both native features like AirPlay and Chromecast, and third-party solutions to ensure stable connectivity. It’s important to understand that for wireless data to be shared, both devices must be on the same LAN, which is a fundamental requirement for most broadcast protocols, and ignoring this rule is the most common reason why devices can’t see each other.
We'll go into detail on router settings, application-specific features, and how to fix typical connection errors. Today's Xiaomi TVs have a powerful hardware that can decode high-resolution video streams, but the right network configuration is crucial. Let's get to the implementation.
Preparation of equipment and Wi-Fi network
Before you start setting up, make sure your Xiaomi TV is connected to the internet. This can be done through the built-in Settings app in the Network section. Most models support both a wired Ethernet connection and 5GHz wireless Wi-Fi, which is preferable for streaming video to 4K.
The critical point is that the iPhone and TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If you have a dual-band router that broadcasts 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks with different names (SSID), make sure that both devices sit on the same frequency. In some cases, the separation of ranges can prevent devices from being detected by search protocols.
- 📡 Check that the Wi-Fi module is on and the connection status is active.
- 📱 Make sure that mobile traffic for apps is disabled on your iPhone if the Wi-Fi signal is weak to avoid switching.
- 🔒 Make sure that your router does not include customer isolation (AP Isolation, which prevents devices from seeing each other on a local network.
⚠️ Note: If your router uses the Guest Network, devices on it may be isolated from the main network where the TV is located.
On a Xiaomi TV, this is done via the Settings menu → About device → System Update. For iPhone, the relevance of iOS ensures support for the latest encryption standards and media transmission protocols.
Use of built-in AirPlay support on Xiaomi TV
Newer Xiaomi and Redmi TVs often have built-in support for Apple AirPlay 2 technology, which is the most convenient way, since it does not require additional software installation.
To activate this feature, look for the Apple AirPlay or AirPlay app on the TV's home screen. If it's not on the desktop, go to the settings and look for an item associated with AirPlay or Home Network. In some firmware, the feature may be disabled by default and requires manual activation.
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On some Xiaomi TVs, the AirPlay app may be called "Cast" or embedded in system services. Try searching in the list of all apps.
Once activated on your TV, pick up your iPhone and open Control Point (swipe down from the top right corner or bottom up, depending on the model).Click on Screen Replay icon. Your Xiaomi TV should appear on the list of available devices.
When you first connect, a confirmation code may appear on your TV screen, enter this code on your smartphone screen to pair, and after a successful pair, you usually don't need to re-enter the code if you're on a trusted network.
| Parameter | Requirement/Significance | Where to find out |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol | AirPlay 2 | Tv settings |
| Network | Same Wi-Fi. | router |
| Permission | Up to 4K HDR | iOS control room |
| Delay. | Low (< 100 ms) | Visually. |
Broadcasting via Google Chromecast
The Android TV operating system on which Xiaomi TVs are based natively supports Google Cast (Chromecast built-in) technology.It is an alternative and often more stable way to stream videos from streaming apps like YouTube, Netflix or Twitch.
Unlike Screen Mirroring, the Chromecast only broadcasts video, which reduces the load on the iPhone processor and saves battery power. The video is played by the TV itself, and the smartphone acts as a remote control.
To get started, open a livestreaming app (like YouTube) on your iPhone. Find the Cast icon (a rectangle with waves in the corner). Click on it and select your Xiaomi TV from the list.
- 🎞️ Open the video in the app on iPhone.
- 📲 Click on the broadcast icon in the player.
- 📺 Select a Xiaomi TV in the list that appears.
If the TV is not listed, make sure the iPhone app has access to the local network. On iOS 14 and later, when the app first starts, they ask for permission to search for devices on the network - this must be confirmed.
What to do if Chromecast doesn’t work?
Helper applications for screen mirroring
If the built-in techniques don’t work, or your Xiaomi TV model is older and doesn’t have AirPlay, third-party apps will come to the rescue.
One of the most popular solutions is the Web Video Caster or TV Cast for Xiaomi app, which works by installing a client app on your iPhone and, in some cases, a server app on your TV (via Google Play Store on TV).
Let’s look at the example of a universal solution:
- Install the app-translator from the App Store on the iPhone.
- On Xiaomi TV, through the Play Market, find an installer app (often called Receiver or Companion).
- Run the app on both devices and wait for detection.
⚠️ Note: Free versions of these apps often have session time or picture quality restrictions. PRO-version.
There are also DLNA applications, like McAfee TV Cast or the standard VLC player, that let you stream local video files stored in your iPhone’s memory to your TV, which is a great way to watch a downloaded movie without converting files.
Connection through HDMI-adapter
For users who want maximum stability and no delays (such as games or presentations), wired connectivity remains the leader. You will need a Lightning to HDMI adapter (or USB-C to HDMI for new iPhones) and a regular HDMI cable.
The connection scheme is very simple: the adapter is inserted into the charging connector of the iPhone, the HDMI cable connects the adapter and the free port of the Xiaomi TV. On the TV you need to switch the source of the signal (Source) to the appropriate HDMI port.
Sequence of action:
1. Connect the adapter to the iPhone.
2. connect the HDMI cable to the adapter and TV.
3. switch the TV to the desired HDMI input.
4. The image will appear automatically.The advantage of this method is that it doesn't depend on Wi-Fi speed or airborne interference, and the image quality will be native to your iPhone, but it's worth considering that Apple's MFi-certified adapters are expensive, and Chinese adapters can run unstablely.
☑️ Checking wired connection
Solving Connection and Sound Problems
A common problem with the iPhone and Xiaomi TV is the lack of sound or its desynchronization with video. This is often due to codecs or audio output settings. If the video is coming and the sound is not, check the audio settings in the application from which the broadcast is coming.
You can also see a situation where the TV is visible on the list, but the connection is reset, which can be caused by the router's power saving settings or by an antivirus. Try temporarily turning off the firewall on the router for diagnostics.
- 🔊 Check if the iPhone is not “No Sound” (switch sideways).
- 📡 Restart your router if the list of devices is not updated.
- 🔄 In the YouTube TV app, try disabling and enabling the “Link with” function. TV code" in settings.
⚠️ Note: When using cheap HDMI-Adapters may not be able to transmit sound due to protection limitations HDCP. In this case, only the replacement of the adapter with a certified one will help.
If nothing works, reset your network settings on your iPhone (Settings → Main → Reset or Move iPhone → Reset → Reset Network settings).This won’t delete your data, but will return your Wi-Fi settings to factory settings, which often solves device detection problems.
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The most stable result for watching movies is the built-in Chromecast, and for games and presentations – a wired HDMI adapter.
Comparison of connection methods
The way you connect depends on your goals. Chromecast is more convenient for watching YouTube from your phone, because you can use your phone for other tasks. AirPlay or mirroring through apps is better for showing photos from the gallery.
Wireless connectivity should be considered as a backup or for scenarios where every millisecond of response is critical, and wireless technology has now reached the point where it fully covers the user's needs in 95% of cases.