Users can wirelessly stream audio, video, and images from an Apple device to an Apple TV, AirPlay-capable speakers, or other compatible devices using the Airplay technology, which was created by Apple. Without the use of cables or other physical connections, it is a straightforward way to view multimedia content on a bigger screen or with better speakers.
Airplay occasionally, though, might not function as planned. Many factors, including network connectivity challenges, software bugs, or compatibility concerns, could be to blame for this. Despite how annoying it may be, it is crucial to fix Airplay problems to make the most of your Apple devices and have nonstop entertainment.
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Check Your Devices and Network
When having trouble with Airplay, make sure that all of your devices are linked to the same network as one another. Since Wi-Fi is used to wirelessly transfer data between devices during Airplay, it is essential that every device be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Airplay will not function if one device is linked to a separate network.
Follow these procedures to see if every device is linked to the same network:
- Check the name of the Wi-Fi network that each device is linked to by going to the Wi-Fi settings on each one.
- Make sure that every device is plugged into the same network.
- Try Airplay again if a device is not connected to the same network; if it is, join the proper network.
Verify that All Devices are Updated to the Latest Software Version
Outdated software on one or more devices is another frequent problem that might prevent Airplay from working. For Airplay to work properly, all devices must have the most recent software. Bug fixes and new features that can fix Airplay issues are frequently included in newly released software updates.
Follow these procedures to see if all devices have the most recent software update:
- On each device, go to the settings.
- Search for any available software updates, and if any are found, install them.
- Try Airplay once more after all the devices have been updated.
Check if Any Devices are Experiencing Hardware Issues
If the aforementioned methods are unsuccessful in fixing the Airplay not working issue, one or more of the devices may have a hardware problem. Do the following actions to resolve this problem:
- To narrow down the problem, try Airplay on a different Airplay-compatible device.
- If the other device supports Airplay, the original device may be the problem, and you may need to get in touch with the manufacturer for fixes or a replacement.
- If none of your devices can use Airplay, there might be a problem with your network’s hardware or configuration. Try rebooting the router or resetting the network settings.
Check Airplay Settings
One of the best ways to fix the AirPlay not working issue is to check the AirPlay settings of your devices. You can locate the issue’s root cause and rapidly resolve it by adhering to a few basic steps.
Verify that the Receiving Device has AirPlay Enabled
Verifying that AirPlay is enabled on the receiving device is the first step in diagnosing an AirPlay issue. This is especially crucial if you have never used AirPlay before and are using a new device. To see if AirPlay is enabled on the receiving device, follow these instructions:
- Go to the Settings app on the receiving device.
- You may find the AirPlay option under “General” or “Network,” so look there.
- If AirPlay is not enabled, toggle the switch to turn it on.
If AirPlay is already enabled on the receiving device, move on to the next step.
Make Sure the Receiver’s Device is Configured to Accept AirPlay Connections
Making sure the device is configured to accept AirPlay connections is the next step after making sure AirPlay is enabled on the receiving device. How to determine if the receiving device is configured to support AirPlay connections is shown below:
- Open the app you want to use with AirPlay on the receiving device (e.g., Music, Videos, Photos).
- Find the AirPlay icon (a rectangle with an arrow pointing upwards).
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Control Center if the AirPlay icon is not displayed.
- Look for the AirPlay button in the Control Center, which should be next to the music controls.
- Choose the device you want to use as the receiver by tapping the AirPlay button.
You will not be able to connect to the receiving device from your transmitting device if the receiving device is not configured to support AirPlay connections. Before attempting to connect, make sure AirPlay is turned on and the device is configured to accept connections.
Verify that the Sending Device’s Audio Output is Set to AirPlay
The following step is to ensure that AirPlay is set as the audio output on the sending device and that AirPlay is enabled on the receiving device and configured to accept connections. Here’s how to determine whether AirPlay is set as the sending device’s audio output:
- Open the app you want to use with AirPlay on the sending device (e.g., Music, Videos, Photos).
- Find the AirPlay icon (a rectangle with an arrow pointing upwards).
- Choose the device you want to use as the receiver by tapping the AirPlay icon.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Control Center if you can not see the AirPlay icon.
- Hit the audio output button in the Control Center (it may look like a speaker or a triangle pointing upwards).
- Choose the device that will serve as your receiver.
The audio will not be transferred to the receiving device if AirPlay is not chosen as the audio output on the transmitting device. Before starting to play media, double-check the device you have chosen.
Restart Devices and Network
Restarting your devices and network is one option if AirPlay is not functioning properly for you. This can assist in resolving any short-term issues and disagreements that may be preventing AirPlay. To accomplish this, restart all hardware, including modems and routers, and then attempt to connect to a different network or hotspot. Also, clearing network-related issues that might be causing AirPlay to malfunction by resetting network settings on your devices can assist.
Power Cycle All Devices, including Routers and Modems
Restarting all devices, including routers and modems, is one of the easiest fixes to try when AirPlay is not functioning. Turning off the devices, waiting a brief period of time, and then turning them back on again is known as power cycling. This can assist in refreshing the devices and resolving any momentary issues or conflicts that might be preventing appropriate AirPlay functionality.
Follow these steps to restart your devices:
- Your iPhone, iPad, and Mac should all be turned off.
- Remove the power cords from your modem and router.
- Before plugging the equipment back in, wait at least 30 seconds.
- Wait for your modem and router to fully boot up before turning them on.
- Try utilizing AirPlay once again after turning on your Apple devices.
Try Connecting the Devices to a Different Network or Hotspot
Try reconnecting your devices to a different network or hotspot if power cycling them does not solve the problem. By doing so, you can identify if the problem is with your network or your devices.
Observe these instructions to connect your Apple devices to a separate network or hotspot:
- Open your device’s Settings app.
- Click Wi-Fi.
- A separate network or hotspot that you can access should be chosen.
- Use AirPlay once more.
If AirPlay functions properly on another network or hotspot, your network may be the source of the problem. In this situation, you might need to conduct network troubleshooting or speak with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for additional support.
Reset Network Settings on your Devices
Try resetting the network settings on your devices if neither of the two options above work. This can assist in resolving any network-related problems that might be preventing AirPlay from functioning properly. The saved Wi-Fi passwords and other network-related configurations will be removed from your devices when network settings are reset, so you will need to input them again following the reset.
Follow these procedures to restore the default network settings on your Apple devices:
- Open your device’s Settings app.
- Click General.
- To reset, scroll down and choose.
- Reset Network Settings should be chosen.
- If asked, enter your passcode.
- Verify your desire to reset the network settings.
- Wait for your device to restart and reset the network settings.
- Use AirPlay once more.
On a Final Note
Devices must be maintained and updated to ensure proper operation, especially when employing capabilities like AirPlay. Failing to do so may cause connectivity problems and provide a worse than ideal user experience. A good strategy to troubleshoot and fix any issues that might emerge is to ask for customer support’s assistance. To ensure the optimum performance, it is crucial to stay current with the most recent upgrades and advancements as technology develops. Users can have flawless and joyful AirPlay experiences by giving device maintenance first priority and getting assistance when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recognize the significance of having flawless AirPlay content streaming. We are aware, however, that occasionally, technical issues could develop and render this capability inoperable. We have had a variety of inquiries from readers regarding why their AirPlay devices are not functioning, and we are here to respond to some of the most frequent ones.
What is AirPlay and how does it work?
Users can wirelessly stream audio, video, and images from an Apple device to a receiver that supports AirPlay thanks to a technology called AirPlay. The receiver might be an Apple TV, HomePod, or any other AirPlay-compatible speakers or TVs. High-quality audio and video are streamed over Wi-Fi using AirPlay, which can also send metadata like album art and track information.
Users will require an AirPlay-compatible receiver and an Apple device running iOS, iPadOS, or macOS in order to use AirPlay. Users must choose the AirPlay symbol from the media playback controls on their device and the receiver they want to stream to in order to start an AirPlay session.
How do I check if my device is compatible with AirPlay?
You must consult the device’s specifications on the manufacturer’s website or get in touch with their support staff to determine if your gadget is AirPlay compatible. On iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touches running iOS 4.2 or later, as well as Macs running macOS 10.8 or later, AirPlay is supported. Devices from third parties that enable AirPlay ought to indicate compatibility on their website or product packaging.
How do I contact Apple support for further assistance with AirPlay issues?
You can visit the Apple Support website and select the AirPlay category under the product or service you are having difficulties with to contact Apple support for help with AirPlay-related issues. From there, you have the option of looking for a solution or getting in touch with Apple support through phone, chat, or email. By including your contact information and a brief description of the problem, you can also request a callback from an Apple support agent.
