iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The simplest way to watch a phone’s movie on a TV is usually to use the streaming app’s Cast or AirPlay button. If the app, phone, and TV or receiver support it, playback goes to the TV without mirroring everything on your phone. When that option is unavailable, try screen mirroring or a wired connection—but first check whether the service and your exact phone model support them.
Choose the method that fits your phone, app, and TV
| Method | Best for | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Cast from the movie app | Playing a supported service on a TV with Google Cast or a compatible receiver | The app and receiver support Google Cast; both devices are on the same Wi-Fi. On iOS 14 or later, the app may need Local Network permission. |
| AirPlay video | Playing a supported app from an iPhone or iPad on an AirPlay-compatible TV or receiver | App and receiver support AirPlay, and both devices are on the same Wi-Fi. |
| Screen mirroring | Showing the phone’s screen, rather than sending only supported app playback | The phone and receiver support the same mirroring method; the streaming service allows it. |
| Wired video | A compatible phone and TV when wireless playback is unavailable or unsuitable | The exact phone model supports video output, and the adapter or cable matches the phone output and TV input. |
App playback and screen mirroring are different: casting or AirPlay from a supported movie app sends its video to the receiver, while mirroring shows the phone screen. A service may allow one method and block another. For example, Netflix says AirPlay with iPhone and iPad is unsupported; check the service’s current help information for your specific setup.
Cast a movie from an Android phone or iPhone with Google Cast
Google Cast can be built into a TV or provided by a compatible receiver. Google identifies Google TV Streamer (4K) and Chromecast as examples of receivers. The app must also support Google Cast; having a compatible TV alone does not make every movie app castable. See Google’s instructions for casting from a Cast-enabled app.
- Confirm the TV has Google Cast built in, or connect a supported Google Cast receiver.
- Connect the phone and receiver to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open an up-to-date, Google Cast-enabled movie app. On iOS 14 or later, allow Local Network access if the app requests it or cannot find receivers.
- Tap the app’s Cast button and choose the TV or receiver. Its location varies by app.
- To stop playback on the receiver, tap Cast in the app and disconnect.
Google lists Android 6.0 or later and iOS 12.0 or later for casting from Google Cast-enabled apps. Those are not the same as its Google Home setup requirements: Google lists Android 9.0 or later and iOS 17.0 or later for setting up devices through Google Home. Check Google’s device requirements for the setup and display details relevant to your receiver.
#1 Best Overall
- 【iPhone 15 HDMI ADAPTER TO TV】- The 2-in-1 iPhone to HDMI adapter for tv helps iPhone15/16/iPad/MacBook expand a HDMI 4K@60Hz port and a charging port, enjoy crystal-clear audio and high-definition video experience, just share happiness with your family or friends. This apple HDMI to USB C adapter allows for faster charging, stable connections and high-definition output, which means you can enjoy home-theater, live streaming ,working report and playing while charging for your apple USB C to HDMI adapter.
- 【PLUG AND PLAY】- The apple HDMI to USB C adapter no need install any driver or app, no need to connect WiFi, no need power supply, no need to adjust mirror of iPhone15/16/iPad, just insert each interface to corresponding device, click the “Trust” button when connecting and then wait a few seconds to connect automatically. Plug and play, easy and quick to install, the iPhone 15/16 HDMI adapter to TV is so easy to use, saving your much time.
- 【WIDELY COMPATIBILITY】- The apple USB C to HDMI adapter is compatible with devices equipped with USB-C ports supporting display port alternate mode. The iPhone to HDMI adapter for tv compatible with iPhone 16/16 Plus/16 Pro/16 Pro Max, iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, MacBook M3/M3 Pro/M3 Pro Max, MacBook Pro 2015-2024, MacBook air 2018-2024, iPad Pro 2018-2024, iMac 2017-2024, Samsung Galaxy S24/S24+/S24 Ultra/S23/S23+/S23 Ultra/S22/S22+/S22 Ultra/S21/S20/Note 10, and other USB C devices.
- 【APPLICATION SUPPORT】- The apple USB C to HDMI adapter supports a variety of video applications, the iPhone to HDMI adapter for tv connector supports mirror videos from Apps, such as YouTube, Quickflix, Hulu Plus, IDMB, Family on TV, ABC, NBC, FOX, Microsoft Office and more videos downloaded and saved on your iOS devices for stream. But please note this apple USB C to HDMI adapter won’t work with Apps with have “HDMI” video copyrights protection, such as Netflix, Prime video, Amazon video, HBO go, HULU.
- 【STURDY AND LASTING DESIGN】- The apple HDMI to USB C adapter for extra durability and a high-quality USB-C connector provides a snug connection with your devices for stable signal transfer. Premium aluminum alloy casing and nylon braided cable for better heat dissipation. The iPhone 15 HDMI adapter to tv is compact and light design let you carry the apple HDMI to USB C adapter in bag everywhere. This tiny device will fit even in the smallest pocket and will always be with your when you need the apple USB C to HDMI adapter.
Stream or mirror from an iPhone or iPad with AirPlay
AirPlay requires an AirPlay-compatible TV or receiver. Connect that device and the iPhone or iPad to the same Wi-Fi network. Apple notes that some video apps may not support AirPlay; if the control is absent or playback does not work, check the app’s own compatibility guidance. See Apple’s AirPlay instructions.
Send video from a supported app
- Open the movie app and start or select the video.
- Tap the app’s AirPlay control and select the TV or receiver. The control’s location depends on the app.
Mirror the whole screen
- Open Control Centre on the iPhone or iPad.
- Tap Screen Mirroring and select the TV or receiver.
- If the TV displays a passcode, enter it on the Apple device.
- To stop, use Screen Mirroring in Control Centre or the AirPlay control in the app.
Use a cable only if your phone supports video output
A phone’s connector shape does not prove that it can send video. Before buying an adapter or cable, check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact phone model and confirm that the adapter supports that output and the TV’s input. Netflix likewise directs users to verify their phone’s video-playback specifications when considering a cable or adapter; its device guidance also lists a compatible casting device or the TV or streaming-device remote as alternatives when AirPlay is unavailable.
Rank #2
- Seamless HD Wireless Streaming: Experience crisp, high-definition visuals with our wireless HDMI display dongle adapter, supporting 4K and delivers an impressive 1080P/60Hz Full HD output.
- Plug & Play: No apps, no Bluetooth, no Wifi required, one-click to mirror the screen of mobile phones or laptops to a big screen, with support for privacy mode and one-click disconnect. The Wireless Display Adapter can easily switch between landscape and portrait mode to enhance your viewing experience
- Stable Transmission, Low Latency: Featuring 2.4/5GHz dual-band high-speed antennas, the wireless HDMI display adapter ensures stable transmission and high-quality video decoding. It boasts a transmission distance of up to 16 feet/5 meters and an impressively low latency of only 100ms.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: This portable Wireless HDMI Dongle Adapter supports Airplay for Apple IOS and MAC systems and Miracast for Android and Windows systems. Its powerful Integrated chipset ensures compatibility with a wide range of HDMI output devices. Easily switch between landscape and portrait modes for a versatile viewing experience. It's perfect choice for conference rooms, home entertainment, and multimedia education
- App Limitations: Please be aware that certain apps with "HDCP" protocol, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos, Hulu, Comcast TV, Xfinity, Vudu, Sky Go, BT Sport, may not be supported due to copyright protection.
Sony describes MHL as a wired option for compatible phones using an MHL HDMI cable or compatible MHL-to-HDMI adapter. Treat MHL as model-specific guidance, not as a feature common to current phones; check Sony’s MHL connection information and your phone’s specifications before relying on it.
Check resolution and connection requirements
A phone alone cannot guarantee a particular picture quality. Resolution depends on the movie service and plan, the content, receiver, display, and network conditions. For Google streaming devices covered by its requirements, Google says the display needs HDCP 1.3 or higher, with HDCP 2.2 required for 4K. Its 4K guidance also requires a 4K-capable display and an internet connection of at least 20 Mbps; 4K support is limited to specified Google devices. See Google’s requirements for device-specific details.
Rank #3
- 【4K UHD Visual Feast】This USB-C to HDMI cable supports up to 4K@60Hz resolution and is backward compatible with 1440P@60Hz and 1080P@120Hz. It can seamlessly transmit at 3840x2160 resolution, providing crystal-clear images and smooth video, suitable for high-definition monitors, TVs, and projectors, meeting the needs of various devices and use cases. 📌𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 "𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐀𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞". 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐖𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫.
- 【Plug-and-Play Simplicity】This Thunderbolt 3 to HDMI connects from your Type-C phone, tablet, laptop, and desktop computer to larger displays like monitor, TV, and projector. Leave behind the worries of unstable WiFi and the hassle of drivers. HDCP compliance ensures smooth media streaming without limitations. 📌𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: 𝐨𝐧𝐞-𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝, 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐇𝐃𝐌𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬
- 【Sturdy and Lasting Design】Braided cable for enhanced durability and resistance to wear and tear. Reinforced connectors prevent loosening or breaking after repeated use. Premium aluminum or copper shielding provides better heat dissipation and prevents signal loss. The usbc to hdmi ensures synchronized video and audio with no lag or interruptions, perfect for gaming, movies, or presentations. *Note: Only supports Android phones with video output function. Not support iPhone Lightning. Does not support HDR.
- 【Improve Work Efficiency】 Mirror or Extend your desktop to boost productivity. Connect to a 4K LED monitor or UHD TV. This c to hdmi cable meets all the smooth, lag-free work, meetings, or multimedia needs. Multiple length options (e.g., 3.3FT, 6.6FT, 10FT) for different setups, from office desks to living rooms. 📌𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲, 𝐬𝐨 𝐢𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞.
- 【Universal Compatibility】The Thunderbolt 3/4/5 to HDMI cable works seamlessly with USB-C devices that support DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode) for video output; Compatible with MacBook Neo, Pro 2016-2024, MacBook Air 2018-2024, iMac (2017 and later), iPad Pro (2021 and later), iPad Air (2021 and later), iPhone 16/ 15 Pro Max/ 15 Pro/ 15 Plus, Mac Studio, Mac Pro, Surface Book 2/3, Surface Laptop 3, Dell XPS 15/13, HP Chromebook x360, Samsung Galaxy S24/S23/S22/S21/S20/S10/S9/S8, Note 20/10/9/8, LG V40, Steam Deck, and more. 📌𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐃𝐨𝐜𝐤/ 𝐃𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠/ 𝐇𝐮𝐛/ 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬.
Disney+ documents casting through Google Chromecast or Apple AirPlay on supported devices. It says video and audio quality depend on internet service, device capabilities, content type, and subscription plan. Check Disney+ casting and AirPlay guidance for the service’s supported-device information.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 80 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Vivid Video: The HDMI adapter lets you connect to any TV or display with an HDMI port to stream video in up to 4K resolution.
- Plug and Play: Instantly turn your laptop’s USB-C port into an HDMI port, with no installation necessary. This product does not support charging or Power Delivery (PD).
- Premium Construction: A lightweight aluminum casing allows for greater heat dissipation, while the reinforced braided-nylon cable is designed to withstand the twists and tugs of daily use.
- Compatibility: Supports USB-C DP Alt mode, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections.
Fix common casting and playback problems
- The TV or receiver does not appear: Confirm the phone and receiver are on the same Wi-Fi network. On iOS 14 or later, check that the movie app has Local Network permission when required for Google Cast discovery.
- The Cast button is missing: Check that the app supports Google Cast and is up to date. The control may be in a different location in each app. On some Android setups, network switching can also interfere with discovery.
- AirPlay does not connect: Confirm both devices are powered on, nearby, updated, and on the same network. Check the receiver’s AirPlay restrictions and passcode settings. Apple’s AirPlay troubleshooting steps cover these checks.
- The app refuses AirPlay or mirroring: Check the service’s compatibility information rather than assuming that screen mirroring will work. Netflix, for example, does not support AirPlay with iPhone and iPad.
- A wired connection gives a black screen or no video: Verify video output for the exact phone model and compatibility of the adapter. A port used for charging or data does not necessarily carry video.
- Picture quality is lower than expected: Check the service plan and content format, receiver and display capabilities, HDCP support, and internet conditions. The service’s requirements may differ from the TV’s maximum resolution.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
