Roku devices are designed to offer seamless streaming without relying on phones or computers. However, there are instances when you might want to share content from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to a Roku TV—perhaps to showcase a photo collection or access apps not supported by Roku, such as Twitch. Here’s a detailed guide to using Apple’s AirPlay feature to mirror your device to a Roku TV.
Is Your Roku Compatible with AirPlay?
AirPlay functionality requires Roku OS 9.4 or newer. To confirm your Roku’s OS version, navigate to Settings > System > About on your device. Alternatively, look for the Apple AirPlay and HomeKit option within the Settings menu. For the latest compatibility updates, refer to Roku’s support documentation.
The following Roku models support AirPlay if running Roku OS 9.4 or later:
- Roku Ultra
- Roku Streambar
- Roku Streaming Stick+
- Roku Premiere and Express models
- Roku Select and Roku Plus TVs (compatible with AirPlay regardless of the installed OS version)
To check your Roku model number, follow the same steps as checking the OS version.
Setting Up AirPlay on Roku
- From the Roku home screen, go to Settings > Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.
- Toggle AirPlay to On.
- Your Roku should now appear as an option when using the AirPlay feature on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, provided all devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
For added functionality, you can integrate your Roku with Apple HomeKit, enabling control via Siri and the Apple Home app. This step is optional but can enhance convenience.
Configuring AirPlay Settings on Roku
Roku devices provide two key AirPlay configuration options:
- Subtitles and Captioning: Adjust subtitle preferences for your media.
- Require Code: Determine when a passcode must be entered to begin AirPlay streaming.
- The “First Time Only” option is often the most practical, allowing initial setup without repeated prompts while maintaining security.
Understanding Mirroring vs. Casting
Mirroring and casting are distinct methods of sharing media via AirPlay:
- Mirroring: Duplicates your device’s screen on the Roku, including all interface elements. This method is ideal when an app (e.g., Twitch) doesn’t support casting or when you want to display additional on-screen elements alongside media.
- Casting: Streams only the media itself to your Roku without replicating the device’s interface. Casting is generally preferable for a cleaner viewing experience, and playback controls will be accessible on your device’s Control Center or lock screen.
How to Mirror Your iPhone or iPad to Roku
- Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone or iPad to open the Control Center.
- Tap the Screen Mirroring icon (two overlapping rectangles).
- Select your Roku device from the list.
- If your Roku doesn’t appear, ensure all devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and check for connectivity issues.
- If prompted, enter the passcode displayed on your Roku TV screen.
- To stop mirroring, return to the Control Center, tap the Screen Mirroring button, and select Stop Mirroring.
How to Mirror Your Mac to Roku
The process on a Mac is similar to that on iPhones and iPads, with slight differences in accessing the Control Center:
- Click the Control Center icon (two sliders) in your Mac’s menu bar.
- Select Screen Mirroring (overlapping rectangles) and choose your Roku from the available options.
- Mac users can also decide between two display modes:
- Mirror Built-in Display: Matches the content on your Mac screen exactly.
- Use As Separate Display: Extends your desktop, allowing the Roku screen to act as a secondary display.
Casting Media to Roku Using AirPlay
Casting is often the preferred way to use AirPlay, as it streams media directly to the Roku without displaying your device’s interface. Here’s how to cast from a video app:
- Look for the AirPlay icon, typically a rectangle with a triangle, within the app’s playback controls.
- Start playing the desired content, tap the AirPlay button, and select your Roku device.
To stop casting:
- On a Mac, click the AirPlay icon in either the video app or the menu bar.
- On an iPhone or iPad, tap the AirPlay icon in the app or use the playback widget in the Control Center.
