AirPlay allows you to wirelessly stream content from your Apple devices to your Mac computer or to an AirPlay-compatible smart TV. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up and use AirPlay with a Mac.
Table of Contents
Enabling AirPlay on Your Mac
To use your Mac as an AirPlay receiver:
- Go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Displays
- Check the box next to “Show mirroring options in the menu bar when available”
- In the sidebar, click on AirPlay Display. Make sure the box next to “Allow AirPlay for” is checked
- Choose from the dropdown menu who can AirPlay to your Mac – Current User, Anyone on the Same Network, or Everyone
- Click OK
You should now see the AirPlay icon in your Mac’s menu bar.
Connecting Your iPhone or iPad to Your Mac via AirPlay
Once AirPlay is enabled on your Mac, connecting your iPhone or iPad is simple:
- Make sure both devices are connected to the same WiFi network
- Open Control Center on your iPhone or iPad
- Long press on the audio or video card
- Tap on AirPlay
- Select your Mac from the list of available devices
- Enter the AirPlay passcode shown on your Mac if prompted
Your iOS device screen should now be mirrored to your Mac display.
Streaming Audio or Video to Your Mac
You can also use AirPlay to stream audio or video content directly from your iPhone, iPad or from apps like Apple Music, Podcasts, YouTube etc.
- Open the app and start playing the audio or video file
- Tap the AirPlay icon in the app
- Choose your Mac to start streaming the content
The audio or video will now play directly on your Mac speakers. Your iOS device is now free for you to use for other tasks.
Using Your Mac as an AirPlay Receiver for Apple TV
You can use your Mac as an AirPlay receiver to view content playing on your Apple TV:
- Make sure Apple TV and Mac are connected to the same network
- On Apple TV, swipe down from the top to open Control Center
- Tap on AirPlay
- Choose your Mac from the list of available devices
- Enter AirPlay passcode on Mac if prompted
The content on your Apple TV will now play on your Mac display.
Tips for Using AirPlay with a Mac
Here are some useful tips when using AirPlay with your Mac:
- Place devices closely – AirPlay performance is best when devices are within 30 feet of each other with minimal obstructions.
- Use Ethernet – For the most reliable connection, use an Ethernet cable to connect your Mac directly to your WiFi router.
- Adjust streaming quality – In System Preferences > Displays > AirPlay Display, you can adjust video streaming to prioritize quality or prioritize performance.
- Use a dedicated network – For best results, connect your AirPlay devices to a dedicated wireless network instead of your primary WiFi network.
- Update software – Ensure all your devices including Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV etc. are updated to the latest OS versions.
So that’s a comprehensive guide on how to set up and use AirPlay to stream content from your iPhone, iPad and Apple TV to your Mac! Let me know if you have any other questions.
