Miracast Screen Mirroring Explained: The Wireless Display Standard for Android and Windows

As an open industry wireless display standard, Miracast provides a convenient screen mirroring solution for Android and Windows devices. Understanding Miracast’s technical features and correct usage methods helps users better enjoy the convenience of wireless screen mirroring.

What Is Miracast?

Miracast is a wireless display standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. It enables devices to establish direct connections via Wi-Fi Direct technology, realizing wireless mirroring transmission of screen content. Unlike traditional Wi-Fi connections that require a router, Miracast devices can pair and connect directly.

Technical Features of Miracast

  • Direct Connection: Uses Wi-Fi Direct technology, no network router required.
  • Real-Time Mirroring: Supports real-time transmission and display of screen content.
  • Open Standard: Not controlled by a single manufacturer, compatible with devices from different brands.
  • HD Support: Supports video transmission up to 1080p resolution.

Miracast-Supported Devices

Sending Devices

  • Android phones and tablets running Android 4.2 or later
  • Windows computers running Windows 8.1 or later
  • Some Linux devices

Receiving Devices

  • Miracast-enabled smart TVs
  • Wireless display adapters
  • Some projectors and set-top boxes

How to Use Miracast on Windows?

Setup Steps for Windows 10/11

  1. Ensure your computer supports Miracast (press Win + P to check if there is a “Connect to a wireless display” option).
  2. Open the Action Center and click “Connect”.
  3. Select an available Miracast receiving device.
  4. Complete the connection as prompted.

Notes

  • Some computers may need to update their wireless network card drivers.
  • Ensure the Windows system is up to date.
  • Close VPN software that may interfere with the connection.

How to Use Miracast on Android Devices?

General Setup Method

  1. Open the Settings menu.
  2. Navigate to “Connection & Sharing” or similar options.
  3. Find the “Wireless Display”, “Screen Mirroring”, or “Cast” feature.
  4. Enable the feature and search for available devices.
  5. Select the target device to connect.

Differences Between Brands

  • Samsung: Called Smart View
  • Huawei: Multi-Screen Interaction or Wireless Display
  • Xiaomi: Screen Mirroring or Wireless Display
  • OPPO/Vivo: Phone Screen Mirroring

Common Miracast Issues and Solutions

Issue 1: Unable to Search for Devices

  • Ensure the Miracast feature on the receiving device is enabled.
  • Check if Wi-Fi on the sending device is turned on.
  • Try restarting both devices.

Issue 2: Screen Stuttering After Connection

  • Move the devices closer to ensure strong signal strength.
  • Close other bandwidth-intensive applications.
  • Try lowering the screen resolution.

Issue 3: Audio and Video Desynchronization

  • Check the audio settings on your devices.
  • Try reconnecting the devices.
  • Update device drivers.

Comparison Between Miracast and Other Mirroring Technologies

vs. DLNA

  • Miracast supports real-time mirroring; DLNA only supports media file streaming.
  • Miracast requires no network; DLNA needs a Wi-Fi network.

vs. AirPlay

  • Miracast is an open standard; AirPlay is Apple’s proprietary technology.
  • Miracast has wider compatibility; AirPlay is limited to the Apple ecosystem.

Application Scenarios of Miracast

  • Business Presentations: Wirelessly project PPTs to large screens.
  • Home Entertainment: Cast mobile games to TVs.
  • Educational Applications: Teachers share tablet content to classroom large screens.
  • Digital Signage: Wirelessly manage multiple display devices.

Current Development Status of Miracast

With the advancement of Wi-Fi technology and the improvement of standards, Miracast’s stability and compatibility continue to improve. Despite competition from various proprietary protocols, as an open standard, Miracast remains an important part of Android and Windows devices.

Summary

Miracast provides an open and universal solution for wireless screen mirroring. Although some compatibility issues may be encountered during use, most users can achieve a satisfactory mirroring experience through correct settings and troubleshooting. For non-Apple ecosystem users, mastering Miracast is key to enjoying the convenience of wireless screen mirroring.