How to cast photos from iPhone to TV?

Screen Mirroring
1

I need help casting photos from my iPhone to my TV. Tried a few methods but nothing worked. I have a smart TV and the latest iPhone. Any suggestions on the best way to do this?

2

One simple way to cast photos from your iPhone to a smart TV is by using AirPlay, as long as your TV is compatible. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure both your iPhone and Smart TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

  2. Enable AirPlay on TV: Go to the settings on your smart TV and turn on AirPlay. This setting may be located under network or general settings depending on your TV brand.

  3. Open Photos App: On your iPhone, open the Photos app and select the photo you want to cast.

  4. Use Share Button: Tap the share button (a square with an arrow pointing up) and select AirPlay.

  5. Select Your TV: Your smart TV should appear on the list. Tap it to start casting.

If your TV isn’t AirPlay compatible or if this method doesn’t work, you might want to try using a third-party app like DoCast Screen Mirroring. It provides a seamless way to mirror your iPhone screen to various smart TVs via Wi-Fi. Here’s how you can set it up:

  1. Download DoCast: Get the DoCast app from the App Store (https://apps.apple.com/app/docast-cast-and-mirror-to-tv/id6446948344). It’s specifically designed for easy screen mirroring and casting.

  2. Connect to Wi-Fi: Again, make sure both your iPhone and smart TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

  3. Open DoCast App: Launch the DoCast app on your iPhone.

  4. Search for TV: The app should automatically detect your smart TV. Select it from the list.

  5. Start Mirroring: Once connected, you can start mirroring your screen. Open the Photos app on your iPhone to display your photos on the TV.

Some smart TVs also have their own casting or mirroring apps which you can use:

  1. Check TV App Store: Go to the app store on your smart TV and search for a casting app compatible with iPhone. Some TV brands offer specific apps for this purpose.

  2. Install and Connect: Download the app and follow the instructions to connect your iPhone.

One other method worth mentioning is using an HDMI cable if you prefer a wired connection over wireless. This is especially good if you experience lag or connectivity issues with wireless methods:

  1. Buy an Adapter: You’ll need a Lightning to HDMI adapter for your iPhone.

  2. Connect to TV: Plug the adapter into your iPhone and then connect it to your TV using an HDMI cable.

  3. Switch Input: Use your TV remote to switch to the correct HDMI input channel.

  4. Mirror Screen: Your iPhone screen should be mirrored to your TV, and you can now open the Photos app to showcase your pictures.

These methods should cover pretty much all scenarios you might encounter. If one doesn’t work, try another, and you should be able to get your photos from your iPhone to your TV without too much hassle.

Also, keep your devices updated with the latest software versions since sometimes software updates can fix connectivity and compatibility issues.

3

AirPlay sounds nice in theory but can be finicky, especially depending on your TV’s brand or how old your TV software is. I’ve had issues with the TV not showing up on the list even when it’s connected to the same network. It’s a hit or miss, to be honest.

As for the DoCast Screen Mirroring app, it’s a decent app, but don’t count on it to be lag-free all the time. It can be useful if AirPlay isn’t playing nice, yet it sometimes suffers from connectivity issues, and might require restarting your devices. On the positive side, it’s user-friendly and broadens compatibility with various TV brands.

Other casting apps like Mirror for Samsung TV or Google Home might be worth a shot too, but they have their own limitations. Just pointing this out so you know there are options, but don’t expect miracles.

Lastly, using an HDMI cable with a Lightning adapter is foolproof IF you don’t mind the cable clutter. It’s reliable, zero-lag, and great for those who prioritize stable connections. However, it’s hardly the most convenient if you want to move around.

4

Sounds like you’ve already got some solid advice, but here’s another angle you might find helpful. If those methods didn’t hit the mark, you might want to consider using Google Photos for casting if you have that app installed.

  1. Install Google Photos: If you haven’t done so, download and install the Google Photos app from the App Store.

  2. Upload Photos: Upload the photos you want to cast to Google Photos.

  3. Use Chromecast: Assuming your Smart TV supports Chromecast or you have a Chromecast dongle connected, open the Google Photos app, find the photo or album you want, and tap the cast icon on the top.

Alternatively, some smart TVs come with their own proprietary casting methods that could work better for your specific brand. For instance, Samsung has Smart View, and LG has Screen Share.

Samsung Smart View

  1. Download App: Download the Smart View app from the App Store.
  2. Connect Devices: Ensure both your iPhone and Samsung TV are connected to the same network.
  3. Select TV: Open the app, and it should search for available TVs. Select your TV.
  4. Start Casting: Choose the photos you want to cast, and you’re good to go.

LG Screen Share

  1. Use LG’s Built-In Features: LG’s Smart TVs often come with features like Screen Share. Enable the Screen Share on your TV.
  2. Connect: On your iPhone, swipe down from the top-right to open the Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring and select your LG TV.

Now, about AirPlay, it does work smoother for Apple-centric setups, but here’s a trick: reboot both your TV and iPhone if they’re not showing up on the network. Sometimes devices just need a fresh start.

One slight disagreement on the HDMI method that was suggested: while it’s true it’s foolproof and super lag-free, it defeats the purpose if you want the convenience of moving around a lot. Plus, if your TV is wall-mounted, those cables are an eyesore.

For those preferring apps, you can give DoCast Screen Mirroring another shot. Get the Official DoCast App from here. Make sure you’re on the latest iOS and your TV firmware is up-to-date to avoid connectivity problems.

Bluetooth casting has also improved over the years. Some TVs allow you to cast via Bluetooth, but keep in mind you may encounter slight lag and reduced image quality.

Overall, choose what suits your needs. There are plenty of methods, and a bit of trial and error might just lead you to the one that works perfectly for you. Good luck!