What to Do When Screen Mirroring Doesn’t Work?

Elsa Updated on Nov 28, 2024 Filed to: Screen Mirroring

Screen mirroring, also known as screen casting or screen sharing, is a powerful technology that allows you to wirelessly duplicate the display of your portable device, such as an iPhone, iPad, or Android smartphone, onto a larger screen like a Smart TV.

This technology enables you to stream videos, view photos, and use apps on a big screen, making it perfect for sharing content with family and friends without the need to huddle around a small device.

However, despite its convenience, users sometimes encounter issues where screen mirroring doesn't work as expected. Let's explore common problems and solutions for when screen mirroring fails.

Why is My Screen Mirroring Not Working?

While screen mirroring is a convenient way to enjoy content on a larger display, it is not fully error-free. Sometimes you may fail to use the feature as the “screen mirroring not working” issue comes out.

Understanding the common causes behind these hiccups is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring a smooth mirroring process. 

screen mirroring not working

The following are some possible reasons:

  • Incompatible Devices
  • Network Connection Problems
  • Screen mirroring is not allowed
  • Software Glitches
  • Bluetooth Interference
  • ...

How to Fix Screen Mirroring Not Working Issue?

There are numerous reasons why screen mirroring not working, but the good news is that you can often resolve these issues without needing to root your device.

Below are the solutions to fix the mirroring not working issue, which is ture for the screen mirroring not working on iPhone/iPad, PC/Mac, and Smart TVs.

Note : Considering the different devices and complex situations, we cannot give you a 100% solution, just list all the possible solutions. We hope them can help you fix the screen mirroring not working problem.

Check the Compatibility of Your Devices

To ensure successful screen mirroring, it's crucial to verify the compatibility between your devices. Different Smart TVs and streaming devices have varied compatibility with mobile devices, such as iPhones,  or other Android devices.

Some may support Apple AirPlay exclusively, such as the iOS devices, Samsung TV, Roku TV,while others might be compatible only with certain Android protocols.

check compatibility on tv

Understanding these compatibility requirements helps identify whether the issue is due to a lack of support for your device, allowing you to explore alternative solutions.

  • If your Smart TV is incompatible with Apple AirPlay, consider purchasing an Apple TV streaming box or another compatible device to enable screen mirroring with iPhone.
  • If your TV doesn't support mirroring from a Samsung Galaxy or Android device, a Google Chromecast, Roku, or Amazon Fire TV can be used to facilitate this functionality.
  • In cases where wireless connection is not possible due to compatibility issues, using a wired connection with an HDMI cable is a viable alternative. You can connect your phone to the TV using a USB-to-HDMI or Lightning-to-HDMI cable.

Make Sure Screen Mirroring is Turned on

This may appears when you casting to TV, especially if it's not appearing on the list of available devices, you need to ensure the function is turned on.

1.  For TV with AirPlay:

  1. Step 1.Press the Home button on your remote.
  2. Step 2.Go to Settings > General > Apple AirPlay Settings.
  3. Step 3.Ensure that AirPlay is set to On.

2. If you're using an Apple TV:

turn on airplay on apple tv

Open the Settings menu and select AirPlay and HomeKit. Ensure AirPlay is turned on.

It's also important to check that AirPlay or screen mirroring is enabled on any other streaming devices you might be using. Once activated, your screen should successfully mirror to the TV. If problems continue, consider exploring additional troubleshooting steps.

Check the Input Source

input source

To begin troubleshooting, it's essential to confirm that your TV's input source is correctly set to screen mirroring, especially when you use HDMI to screen mirroring your devices.

When you cannot see your phone screen mirrored on your TV, you should press the Home or Menu button on your remote to return to the Home screen on your smart TV.

If you're using a streaming device, ensure the TV is set to the correct source where the streaming box is connected. You can do this by pressing the Source button on your TV remote to switch sources.

Most TVs also allow you to change the input through the settings menu or on-screen options. Confirming and adjusting the input source is a key step in troubleshooting screen mirroring issues.

Ensure the Internet Connection

screen mirroring via wifi

To ensure a stable internet connection for screen mirroring, both your mobile device and TV or streaming device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Check the Wi-Fi settings on both devices to confirm they are on the same network. If your mobile device is using 4G or 5G data, switch it to Wi-Fi.

An unstable internet connection can hinder screen mirroring, try these below methods:

  • Move them closer to the router for a stronger signal.(if your devices are too far away, they may struggle to connect.)
  • Minimize physical obstructions like walls or electronic devices between your mobile device, TV, and router, as these can interfere with the connection.
  • Limit the number of devices using the internet simultaneously, especially for high-bandwidth activities like streaming or gaming, to prevent network overload.
  • Restart your router by unplugging it for a minute and then plugging it back in. Once it reboots, ensure all devices reconnect to the network and attempt screen mirroring again.

Restart Your Mobile Device & Streaming Devices

restart devices

Restarting your mobile and streaming devices can resolve minor bugs and glitches that may prevent successful connections. Here’s how to do it:

  • iPhone/iPad: Press and hold the power button (or side button and Volume Down button for iPhone X and later) until the power off slider appears. Slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, and then press the power button to restart.
  • Android Devices: Press and hold the Power button until the Power menu appears. Tap "Power Off" (or "Turn off"). After 30 seconds, press the power button to restart.
  • Mac: Hold down the Power button until the Mac shuts down. Wait a minute, then press the Power button again to reboot.
  • Apple TV (4K and 4th Gen): Go to Settings > System > Restart.
  • Apple TV (3rd Gen and earlier): Navigate to Settings > General > Restart.
  • TV or Streaming Device: Turn off using the remote, unplug for 30 seconds, then plug back in and power on.

Restarting these devices can help clear temporary issues and improve screen mirroring performance.

AirDroid Cast

  • Local & Remote Screen Casting
  • Android,iOS,Windows,Mac,TV Screen Mirroring
  • Wireless & USB Connection
  • Total Control Android & iOS beyond Your Finger
  • Mirror Multiple Screen

Update Devices & Apps

update devices

Keeping your devices and apps updated is crucial for fixing bugs, resolving compatibility issues, and ensuring smooth operation with your smart TV or streaming device.

  • iPhone/iPad: Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update. If an update is available, tap Download and Install, enter your passcode, and select Install Now.
  • Android Devices: Swipe down from the top of the screen, tap the Gear icon to access Settings, then select System followed by Software Update. Tap Download and Install if an update is available.
  • Smart TV/Streaming Device: Check the Settings menu for an option to update the firmware. The process varies by device, so consult your device's manual if needed.
  • Apps: Ensure streaming apps like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify are up-to-date. Update apps via the App Store on iPhone/iPad or the Google Play Store on Android.

Regular updates help maintain compatibility and improve the performance of your devices and apps.

Disable Bluetooth

disable bluetooth

Bluetooth can sometimes interfere with screen mirroring, so disabling it might resolve connectivity issues.

Here's how to turn off Bluetooth:

  • iPhone/iPad: Swipe down from the upper-right corner to access the Control Center. Tap the Bluetooth icon to disable it.
  • Android Devices: Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the Quick Settings panel. Tap the Bluetooth icon to turn it off.

After disabling Bluetooth, check if screen mirroring works. If the issue persists, try toggling Bluetooth on and off a few times, or proceed to the next troubleshooting step.

Disable Screen Time Settings on iPhone or iPad

If you have Screen Time restrictions set up on your iPhone or iPad, they could be interfering with your screen mirroring capabilities. Disabling Screen Time may resolve these issues.

Here's how to do it:

screen time settings

  1. Step 1.Open the Settings on your device.
  2. Step 2.Tap Screen Time.
  3. Step 3.Scroll down and select Turn Off Screen Time.
  4. Step 4.Enter your passcode if prompted.

Once Screen Time is disabled, try using screen mirroring again to see if the issue is resolved. You can re-enable Screen Time later if needed.

Disable Supervision on Android

Disable Supervision on Android

Supervision settings on an Android device can interfere with screen mirroring. Disabling these settings may help restore access. Here's how to turn off supervision:

  1. Step 1.Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon to open Settings.
  2. Step 2.Select Digital Wellbeing & parental controls.
  3. Step 3.Tap the three-dot icon (⋮) and choose Stop supervision.
  4. Step 4.Enter your parental access code and follow the prompts.

After disabling supervision, try screen mirroring again to see if the issue is resolved.

Check to See Restricting Certain Devices

Many smart TVs and streaming devices provide options in their Settings menu to control who can use AirPlay or screen mirroring.  Check your device's Settings for any restrictions on screen mirroring.

restrict certain devices

On Apple TV, access the Settings menu, select AirPlay and HomeKit, and adjust the "Allow access to Apple TV" setting to "Everyone" to enable access for all.

Ensure One Device at a Time

one device at a time

Screen mirroring services generally allow only one device to connect at a time. To ensure a successful connection, make sure you are attempting to mirror only one device to your TV. If the TV detects multiple devices trying to connect simultaneously, it may reject the connection, preventing a successful link.

Use a Different Mirror App

While many users rely on the default screen mirroring app on their devices, you have other options. If the preloaded app isn't working, try downloading a different mirroring app from your app store to see if it resolves the issue. AirDroid Cast is a perfect choice for you, for it's compatible to various devices, from Android, iOS, PC/Mac to samrt TVs.

Use a Third-Party Mirror Service

If you still cannot do screen mirroring, there may be an issue with the protocols you are using. Apple AirPlay and Google Cast do not always work.

You may try using other services like Chromecast and see if they help you get your job done. This should fix the Samsung Smart TV screen mirroring not working issue.

Pair the Device with TV

Certain smart TVs require you to pair your smartphone with the TV before using the screen mirroring feature. This process ensures that only authorized users can connect.

To pair your phone with your TV, refer to the instructions in your TV's manual, which will guide you through the necessary steps. Once paired, you should be able to mirror your screen successfully.

Remove Physical Obstacles

Screen mirroring relies on wireless technologies, which can be disrupted by physical obstacles between your phone and TV. To ensure a stable connection, remove any objects that might interfere with the signal.

Position both devices within a clear line of sight and as close to each other as possible to minimize interference. This setup helps maintain a strong and uninterrupted connection, facilitating successful screen mirroring. Additionally, reducing interference from other wireless devices can further enhance the mirroring experience.

Best Solution for Screen Mirroring Not Working

If your screen mirroring is still not working despite trying all quick fixes for screen mirroring issues, you might look for an alternative to a built-in screen mirroring feature. In that case, AirDroid Cast is the best alternative.

AirDroid Cast is a screen mirroring software that you can use to connect your mobile devices to your PC. It's available for Android, iOS devices, Windows PC and Macs, etc. So, regardless of which device you are using, you'll be able to share content between your PC and mobile device.

AirDroid Cast

How to Set Up AirDroid Cast to Start Screen Mirroring?

Step 1. Download and install the app

Download and install AirDroid Cast application on both your devices by clicking the "Try It Free" button below or from the AirDroid Cast official website.

Step 2. Select mirroring method

Open AirDroid Cast on your device, there are 3 connection methods you can choose.

WLAN: Use your AirDroid Cast app to scan the QR code or enter the cast code that is displayed on your computer.

AirDroid Cast mirroring methods

AirPlay: This method is only available for iPhone, it turns your PC into an AirPlay receiver. Scrolling down your phone screen and tap on "Screen mirroring" option, choose "AirDroid Cast - XXX".

AirPlay method on AirDroid Cast

USB: You need to find a USB cable to connect your phone and computer, and then choose your device from AirDroid Cast list for connection.

USB cable method on AirDroid Cast

Step 3. Start screen sharing:

To start screen sharing by following the on-screen notification.

Tips: If you want to mirror your phone/PC screen to a TV, you can open browser on your TV and go to webcast.airdroid.com. Then you can start mirroring within 2 minutes.

Conclusion

Screen mirroring can be a useful thing to get to work with your TV or phone, and depending upon the device you're utilizing in the mirroring process, there may be some limitations due to screen mirroring not working.

Luckily there are numerous different options available for Android and Apple devices as well as TVs which help one diagnose problems when screen mirroring doesn't connect for whatever reason. Hopefully, the tips in this article will help you to get screen mirroring working on your favorite device.

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Elsa
Elsa
Elsa has worked on a number of iOS & Android solutions, she can always find her way around almost any application. She is an accomplished, skilled and versatile writer with more than 7 years of technical article writing experience.
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