Can My Phone Mirror to a TV?
With everything our smartphones can do, sometimes the small screen just doesn’t fit the bill when it comes to sharing what’s on it with friends, family or colleagues.
Fortunately, many newer Android phones have the ability to wirelessly mirror their screens to a TV thanks to Miracast technology. Now it’s easier than ever to share those great family photos, funny videos, apps and more.
Compatible Devices
Before you can enjoy screen mirroring, you’ll need to determine if your phone has the technology to screen mirror. Android phones use a technology called Miracast to screen mirror. Miracast is a wireless display standard that acts as an HDMI cable without the hassle of cords. Many of today’s new Android 4.2+ smartphones and modern smart TVs have Miracast technology integrated into them already, making it easier than ever to mirror a phone to a TV. An easy way to tell if your phone has screen mirroring technology built into it is to look for a “screen sharing” option in the settings or display menu.
Wireless Display Adapters
A wireless display adapter, also called a dongle, is an external device that allows your smartphone to communicate with the TV for screen mirroring. If you already have a smart TV, then you likely won’t need a wireless display adapter. A wireless display adapter plugs into the HDMI port of your TV and acts as an HDMI cable without the hassle of wires.
How To Phone Mirror
Mirroring your phone’s screen to the TV is simple when using a wireless display adapter. While you can use a physical cable connection, wireless display adapters give you the freedom to move around the room with your phone while screen sharing. There are many adapters available for purchase, all of which come with different features and device requirements such as Wi-Fi access and apps to download. Most adapters can be set up through the following steps:
- Plug your wireless display adapter into the HDMI port of your TV and into a power source, such as a wall outlet or power strip.
- Turn on screen mirroring from the “Display” menu of your smartphone’s settings app.
- Select the wireless adapter from the displayed device list and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the set-up process.
Please note that Apple products are not Miracast compatible and require Apple specific equipment and adapters.