How to Connect Your Phone to a TV (Wireless and Cable)
Watching videos, photos or presentations on a big TV screen is much better than crowding around a phone. There are several ways to connect, depending on your phone and TV.
Option 1: Cast from apps (best for video)
If you have a smart TV with Google TV/Android TV or a Chromecast device, apps like YouTube, Netflix and many others show a Cast icon (a screen with Wi-Fi waves).
- Connect the phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the app and tap the Cast icon.
- Choose your TV.
The TV streams the video directly, so your phone stays free and battery use is low.
Option 2: Screen mirroring (Android)
To show your entire screen, swipe down and look for Smart View (Samsung), Cast, Screen Cast or Screen mirroring in Quick Settings. Choose your TV. Many smart TVs support mirroring (Miracast) directly. You may need to enable screen mirroring on the TV.
Option 3: AirPlay (iPhone)
If your TV supports AirPlay (many Samsung, LG and Sony smart TVs do) or you have an Apple TV:
- Connect to the same Wi-Fi.
- Open Control Center and tap Screen Mirroring.
- Choose your TV and enter the code shown on the TV.
Option 4: HDMI cable
For a reliable, lag-free connection:
- Android with USB-C: many phones support video output with a USB-C to HDMI adapter. Check your model; not all phones support it.
- iPhone: use an Apple Lightning Digital AV Adapter or a USB-C to HDMI adapter for USB-C iPhones.
Old TV without smart features?
Add an inexpensive streaming device like Chromecast with Google TV, a Fire TV stick or an Android TV box to the TV's HDMI port. See setting up a smart TV.
Troubleshooting
- TV not found? Check both are on the same Wi-Fi and restart the TV.
- Laggy mirroring? Move closer to the router or use casting instead.
- No sound? Check the TV volume and the phone's media output.
- Black screen with Netflix mirroring? Some apps block mirroring; use casting instead.
Great ways to use your phone with a TV
- Family photos: open Google Photos or iPhone Photos and cast a slideshow to the TV during gatherings.
- YouTube with friends: when casting YouTube, others on the same Wi-Fi can add videos to the queue from their phones.
- Presentations: mirror Google Slides or PowerPoint from your phone in a meeting room.
- Video calls on the big screen: mirror a WhatsApp or Meet call so the whole family can see relatives abroad. Keep the phone propped up so its camera faces the room.
- Workouts and recipes: cast exercise videos or cooking tutorials so you can follow along hands-free.
Privacy while mirroring
When you mirror your whole screen, everyone in the room sees your notifications, including private messages and OTPs. Before mirroring:
- Turn on Do Not Disturb.
- Close apps you don't want visible.
- On some Android phones, turn on the option to hide notifications while screen sharing.
Casting from an app (like YouTube or Netflix) doesn't show your other screens, so it's the more private option.
Performance tips
Mirroring works best when both devices are on the 5 GHz band of your Wi-Fi, close to the router. If video stutters, reduce the distance or use a wired HDMI adapter. See improving home Wi-Fi.
Frequently asked questions
Does casting use my mobile data?
Casting uses the TV's Wi-Fi connection, not your phone's mobile data.
Can I use my phone while casting?
Yes, with app casting. With mirroring, the TV shows everything on your screen.
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