How to view photos from an iPhone on a smart TV using AirPlay

AirPlay is a set of wireless communication and data transmission protocols that is only available on Apple or certain Apple approved devices. You can use AirPlay to share hotpots, transmit images and data, stream video, and more. It’s a simple and powerful protocol that allows Apple devices to seamlessly and securely talk to each other without the hassle of passwords or pairing mechanisms that require user input.

System requirements

While AirPlay is available on all Apple devices, the protocol can also be built into smart TVs and speakers, where it can be used to stream images, video, music, and in some cases, control signals.

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To use AirPlay with your smart TV, you’ll first need to confirm that it supports it. You can confirm this by checking up the specs of the TV on the manufacturer’s website, or even by trying to AirPlay content and checking if the TV shows up as an AirPlay device.

If your TV doesn’t support AirPlay, you’ll need to hook the TV up to an Apple TV box, Mac, or other Apple device. AirPlay can work without a Wi-Fi connection, but it’s best to be on a good Wi-Fi network for the best quality streaming.

How to share an image to your TV via AirPlay

Open your Photos app and navigate to the image you want to share. Tap on the share icon at the bottom of the screen and scroll down to AirPlay. Tap on AirPlay to be presented with a list of AirPlay compatible devices in your vicinity. Tapping on the device — your AirPlay compatible Smart TV, in this case, will stream the image on your TV.

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You can now swipe through images and video and have them update on the TV in real-time. Of course, Apple will ensure that images are shared in the highest quality possible and in the original aspect ratio. You can use gestures such as pinch to zoom into areas of the image that you want to see magnified.

To exit AirPlay, tap the AirPlay icon that is now visible at the top of your phone and select ‘Turn Off AirPlay’. Your iPhone will most likely turn on Do Not Disturb while AirPlay is active so your session isn’t interrupted by unwanted calls or notifications. Your TV or phone might sometimes ask to confirm a passcode when first connecting to a device that isn’t signed into the same Apple ID that is using AirPlay.

Using AirPlay to share images and video with family and friends via the TV is a great way to go through holiday or event photos without having to squint at them on a small iPhone display.