It's not clear why some devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy S10 , don't include the cast button in the settings panel. Samsung tablets generally do not support Chromecast at this time.

If not, you can download it from the Play store. Now, back to the vertical rows on the home screen. Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles. Writing by Maggie Tillman. The biggest downside is latency. Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. Our Best Phone Hacks Delivered daily to your inbox. It can even transfer over your Wi-Fi information device automatically on some devices. Google Chromecast also works with iPhones and iPads.

Of the two technologies, Miracast is older. It supports either 2. Android TV lets you quickly customise your TV's content to suit you. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. It offers voice control thanks to the integration of Google Assistant and gives you control across other devices, like your Android phone and WearOS watch. Here's how: 1. If you want to share this content with other people, though, why huddle around a tiny screen when you have that nice, big TV just sitting there? To stop casting your screen, tap on the button labeled Stop mirroring in the Home app. While you can select text boxes to reveal the keyboard, the keyboard isn't supported when choosing the search area on the home screen or Prime video app. You can also finish a level on your phone and play the next one on your TV, as Google Play Games saves your progress.

If you are unsure of which ports are on your smartphone or tablet, the easy choice is to go with a Google Chromecast. Share Your Thoughts Click to share your thoughts. Select "Choose A Device to Control" near the bottom of the page and choose your device. If not, you can download it from the Play store. It has the usual layout on the front and a full keyboard on its back cover. Both devices must be on the same network. Google announced six new Assistant features in January you'll want to know , whether you have one of Google's smart speakers or displays. Meaning, any alerts and notifications, along with their contents, will be broadcast for all to see. It's about making your TV smart and doing it with an interface that's recognisable and easy to use.

The Roku 2 and newer boxes by Roku support casting. And you don't necessarily need a smart TV or a streaming box like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick , to stream content on the big screen. Simply click on it to start your search. You can use up to four gamepads, Android phones, or tablets at once when competing against friends. Provide the app the necessary permission, then select your TV in the popup make sure your it's turned on. Meaning, any alerts and notifications, along with their contents, will be broadcast for all to see. Writing by Maggie Tillman. Open the app and follow the instructions to reach the main page.

While you can only do true display mirroring with an Android smartphone or tablet, you can still cast video from Netflix, Hulu, or any other Chromecast-compatible app from your iPhone or iPad. SlimPort is a new technology designed for all sorts of devices from smartphones to tablets to cameras. Skip to content. This app will detect the Chromecast and establish a connection to help set it up. Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. If you don't own an Android TV-compatible television, but want to cast content from your laptop or mobile device to your television, you need to buy a Chromecast HDMI dongle from Google and plug it into your television. Select your device from the list and input the corresponding four-digit code which appears on your TV. Give your friends and family a break.

Get a lifetime subscription to VPN Unlimited for all your devices with a one-time purchase from the new Gadget Hacks Shop, and watch Hulu or Netflix without regional restrictions. The Best Tech Newsletter Anywhere. If you don't own an Android TV-compatible television, but want to cast content from your laptop or mobile device to your television, you need to buy a Chromecast HDMI dongle from Google and plug it into your television. If you've already set up any of Google's smart speakers, Nest Wifi or Chromecast devices, you likely already have it installed. Hot Latest. After the initial prompt and permission request, you will be directed to "Pair a new device," choose your device and input the PIN that appears on your television to complete the process. In the age of smartphones, we keep everything stored on our little pocket computers: pictures, spreadsheets, documents, videos, music, and everything in between. Here's what you need Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5. Aside from the added flexibility in choosing a port type, though, Slimport works pretty much the same way as MHL. Let's take a look at what you need, as well as a couple of different methods for mirroring your display.

When prompted, choose "Pair" to connect your phone. Open the app and select the Chromecast device you want to use. Go wired, instead. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. And Chromecast setup is easy. One of the coolest features in Android TV is the ability to use it for casting. Choose the directional pad tab and then select the keyboard button to start typing. It uses the same basic technology as DisplayPort to pass audio and video to a television or monitor. On your smartphone or tablet, pull down the extended notifications using two fingers to swipe from the very top edge of the display downwards. Select the one that's connected to your TV, and a few seconds later your Android phone's screen will show up.

If you don't own an Android TV-compatible television, but want to cast content from your laptop or mobile device to your television, you need to buy a Chromecast HDMI dongle from Google and plug it into your television. It's a question that is both simple and complex. Cast and mirror an Android screen to your TV in three easy steps Whether you're streaming a movie, taking part in a video call or playing a game on your TV, mirroring your Android phone's display to your television set is a step worth taking. While you can select text boxes to reveal the keyboard, the keyboard isn't supported when choosing the search area on the home screen or Prime video app. The Roku can be a good choice for those who want a Roku or similar streaming device without the need to always connect your smartphone or tablet, but with the option of doing so. You shouldn't need to do anything special other than making sure your smartphone or tablet is in landscape mode to get the best viewing experience. Not all Miracast dongles are created equal, so you may or may not be able to stream things like Netflix or YouTube to every TV. By submitting your email, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5. Like MHL and Slimport, these are two means to the same end.

Share Your Thoughts Click to share your thoughts. Tweet Share Email. And you don't necessarily need a smart TV or a streaming box like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick , to stream content on the big screen. In addition to an Android phone or tablet, you'll need a Google Chromecast streaming dongle, and either a TV with Chromecast built in or a smart display like the Google Nest Hub. If not, you can download it from the Play store. Android TV is simple to learn and use. If you don't own an Android TV-compatible television, but want to cast content from your laptop or mobile device to your television, you need to buy a Chromecast HDMI dongle from Google and plug it into your television. Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your television and open the app. Why you can trust Pocket-lint.

How-To Geek is where you turn when you want experts to explain technology. It's about making your TV smart and doing it with an interface that's recognisable and easy to use. After the initial prompt and permission request, you will be directed to "Pair a new device," choose your device and input the PIN that appears on your television to complete the process. The Roku 2 and newer boxes by Roku support casting. Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your television and open the app. You shouldn't need to do anything special other than making sure your smartphone or tablet is in landscape mode to get the best viewing experience. They contain informational bits like who's who in the movie you're about to watch, other popular titles from the video game developer you're browsing, YouTube clips featuring the actor you're looking at, etc. Select a text box on your television using the app to reveal the keyboard.

But typing is such a terrible experience when you're forced to use voice dictation or peck around with the remote control. Tweet Share Email. By submitting your email, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Our Best Phone Hacks Delivered daily to your inbox. Select a text field on your Apple TV. You can browse the full list of Android TV apps available here. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Aside from the added flexibility in choosing a port type, though, Slimport works pretty much the same way as MHL.

With the Home app installed, here's what you need to do: 1. Google announced six new Assistant features in January you'll want to know , whether you have one of Google's smart speakers or displays. If you don't see your TV or set-top box here, you still have some options. Select the Cast my Screen button at the bottom of your screen. It offers voice control thanks to the integration of Google Assistant and gives you control across other devices, like your Android phone and WearOS watch. Just tap the Cast button on your mobile app to start playing on your TV. The biggest downside is latency. Look for and select a button labeled Screen cast. Android TV lets you quickly customise your TV's content to suit you. You can use up to four gamepads, Android phones, or tablets at once when competing against friends.

Writing by Maggie Tillman. Discuss: Cast and mirror an Android screen to your TV in three easy steps Sign in to comment Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. Share Your Thoughts Click to share your thoughts. Make sure your smartphone is on the same Wi-Fi network as your television, then open the app. The biggest downside is latency. Mirror your Android phone or tablet to your TV's screen in just a few steps. With one, you can send everything from movies and music or even browser tabs to your television. Cast and mirror an Android screen to your TV in three easy steps Whether you're streaming a movie, taking part in a video call or playing a game on your TV, mirroring your Android phone's display to your television set is a step worth taking.

Stop casting your screen by following the same steps and selecting Disconnect when prompted. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Google Cast , which was originally just called Chromecast, is the easiest to use of all the standards discussed in this article. It has the usual layout on the front and a full keyboard on its back cover. Look for and select a button labeled Screen cast. Mirror your Android phone or tablet to your TV's screen in just a few steps. Here's how:. SlimPort is a new technology designed for all sorts of devices from smartphones to tablets to cameras. So how do you get that screen from your smartphone or tablet to your TV?

Windows Mac iPhone Android. Thankfully, there's a better way. Remember, whenever you're mirroring your screen, anything and everything that shows up on your phone or tablet's display will also show up on the TV. Writing by Maggie Tillman. SlimPort operates much the same as MHL. They contain informational bits like who's who in the movie you're about to watch, other popular titles from the video game developer you're browsing, YouTube clips featuring the actor you're looking at, etc. You can find the screen-mirroring option in the settings of the Roku. It's a question that is both simple and complex. But typing is such a terrible experience when you're forced to use voice dictation or peck around with the remote control.

Supported voice commands include simply stating a video game title Using the home app isn't a lot of work, but there's an even easier way: Use the Casting shortcut in the quick settings panel. Swipe down from the top of your Android device to reveal the Quick Settings panel. Passive cables do not require separate power. Don't show this again. If you want to share this content with other people, though, why huddle around a tiny screen when you have that nice, big TV just sitting there? Cast and mirror an Android screen to your TV in three easy steps Whether you're streaming a movie, taking part in a video call or playing a game on your TV, mirroring your Android phone's display to your television set is a step worth taking. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming.

And Chromecast setup is easy. Solutions like Chromecast make it relatively easy to 'cast' your screen, and depending on your particular smartphone or tablet, you may have a few wired options to explore as well. This app will detect the Chromecast and establish a connection to help set it up. Google Chromecast also works with iPhones and iPads. If not, you can download it from the Play store. Now, back to the vertical rows on the home screen. Supported device list or not, It's possible you'll see a warning telling you that you may have performance issues. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming. You shouldn't need to do anything special other than making sure your smartphone or tablet is in landscape mode to get the best viewing experience.

The Best Tech Newsletter Anywhere Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles. Skip to content. For newer Vizio televisions with SmartCast, the corresponding app will allow you to use the phone's keyboard. The Roku can be a good choice for those who want a Roku or similar streaming device without the need to always connect your smartphone or tablet, but with the option of doing so. After you buy the adapter and cable, setup is straightforward. If you've already set up any of Google's smart speakers, Nest Wifi or Chromecast devices, you likely already have it installed. Meaning, any alerts and notifications, along with their contents, will be broadcast for all to see. Can You Get Facebook on Roku? The biggest issue with these wired options is support.

For example, you can play Netflix or YouTube on the TV and still use your smartphone for other things—it effectively just becomes a really expensive remote control. Mirror your Android phone or tablet to your TV's screen in just a few steps. June 7, p. Android TV lets you quickly customise your TV's content to suit you. Choose the directional pad tab and then select the keyboard button to start typing. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming. One of the coolest features in Android TV is the ability to use it for casting. Solutions like Chromecast make it relatively easy to 'cast' your screen, and depending on your particular smartphone or tablet, you may have a few wired options to explore as well.

Even if your television doesn't include this feature, thanks to set-top boxes like Apple TV and Roku, you can add this functionality to any TV. The Galaxy S10 has this warning, but in my testing, I haven't experienced any issues. You will see a "Screen Mirroring" or "Smart View" option if your device supports it. It can even transfer over your Wi-Fi information device automatically on some devices. Here's what you need Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5. It comes with a touchpad on the size to replace your remote's d-pad or touchpad, and pairs using a USB dongle. But typing is such a terrible experience when you're forced to use voice dictation or peck around with the remote control. In fact, the entire interface is based around voice-activated searching, which you can use through one-click remotes with a built-in mic. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive. For these fields, you are limited to voice input.

And you don't necessarily need a smart TV or a streaming box like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick , to stream content on the big screen. By submitting your email, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Google announced six new Assistant features in January you'll want to know , whether you have one of Google's smart speakers or displays. Android TV lets you quickly customise your TV's content to suit you. On select TVs and devices, you may also see the manufacturer's apps. This versatility is great for households that have both major mobile platforms. To stop casting your screen, tap on the button labeled Stop mirroring in the Home app. Esto también se puede leer en español. For these fields, you are limited to voice input. Google Cast , which was originally just called Chromecast, is the easiest to use of all the standards discussed in this article.

Stop casting your screen by following the same steps and selecting Disconnect when prompted. In the age of smartphones, we keep everything stored on our little pocket computers: pictures, spreadsheets, documents, videos, music, and everything in between. Again, research is your friend. If you don't own an Android TV-compatible television, but want to cast content from your laptop or mobile device to your television, you need to buy a Chromecast HDMI dongle from Google and plug it into your television. Choose "Control" and select "Connect. Swipe down from the top of your Android device to reveal the Quick Settings panel. Windows Mac iPhone Android. Provide the app the necessary permission, then select your TV in the popup make sure your it's turned on.

Writing by Maggie Tillman. Select a text box on your television using the app to reveal the keyboard. This makes it so much easier to enter your user name and password or just type in the name of an app or show. It uses a USB dongle for 2. Again, research is your friend. After installing the app, turn on your phone's Wi-Fi and connect to the same network as your Roku device. It comes with a touchpad on the size to replace your remote's d-pad or touchpad, and pairs using a USB dongle. If you are unsure of which ports are on your smartphone or tablet, the easy choice is to go with a Google Chromecast. You can find the screen-mirroring option in the settings of the Roku. Google announced six new Assistant features in January you'll want to know , whether you have one of Google's smart speakers or displays.

By submitting your email, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Setting up your phone to work as a remote control is pretty straightforward, but if you are having trouble, check out our Apple TV Remote setup guide. The top row is the Content Discovery bar, which highlights suggested content from popular apps you use. After you buy the adapter and cable, setup is straightforward. On select TVs and devices, you may also see the manufacturer's apps. It uses a USB dongle for 2. Solutions like Chromecast make it relatively easy to 'cast' your screen, and depending on your particular smartphone or tablet, you may have a few wired options to explore as well. Once paired, selecting a text field with the app will reveal the keyboard.

A list of Chromecast devices on your network will show up. Select your device from the list and input the corresponding four-digit code which appears on your TV. It uses the same basic technology as DisplayPort to pass audio and video to a television or monitor. Google announced six new Assistant features in January you'll want to know , whether you have one of Google's smart speakers or displays. It relies on your Android device to be the brains behind the operation, while it simply casts your Android screen onto your television set. The problem really lies with your phone. Meaning, any alerts and notifications, along with their contents, will be broadcast for all to see. A Chromecast device doesn't only allow mirroring, but you can also play your favorite shows from streaming apps on your TV. To manually unveil the keyboard, select the keyboard icon near the bottom of your display.

After you plug the dongle into your TV and attach the power cable, download and launch the Google Home app. The Best Tech Newsletter Anywhere Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles. Below the Apps row, you'll see a list of all the games you've downloaded. One of the coolest features in Android TV is the ability to use it for casting. Select the one that's connected to your TV, and a few seconds later your Android phone's screen will show up. Swipe down from the top of your Android device to reveal the Quick Settings panel. If you are watching a movie, this limitation isn't a big deal, but if you want to play a game or watch YouTube videos, it isn't ideal. Just tap the Cast button on your mobile app to start playing on your TV. Here's everything you need to know about it, including how it works, when you can use it, and which devices offer it.

That doesn't mean you'll be taking calls through your TV or trawling through emails, but it's about ease of navigation, access to entertainment and simple interactivity. This also provides a bit of juice to the host device, which is a nice touch since the display has to remain on while the phone is connected regardless of the standard used. A push notification will appear on your phone. It relies on your Android device to be the brains behind the operation, while it simply casts your Android screen onto your television set. If you don't see your TV or set-top box here, you still have some options. To set up, first open the app and log into the same Amazon account used to set up your Fire TV device or television. And Chromecast setup is easy. For newer Vizio televisions with SmartCast, the corresponding app will allow you to use the phone's keyboard. After you buy the adapter and cable, setup is straightforward.

The keyboard can be revealed in two ways — by picking a text box on your TV or by selecting the keyboard icon in the upper right corner of the app. In a nutshell, Android TV is essentially Android optimised for the big screen. And you don't necessarily need a smart TV or a streaming box like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick , to stream content on the big screen. Select a text box on your television using the app to reveal the keyboard. Using the home app isn't a lot of work, but there's an even easier way: Use the Casting shortcut in the quick settings panel. Get a lifetime subscription to VPN Unlimited for all your devices with a one-time purchase from the new Gadget Hacks Shop, and watch Hulu or Netflix without regional restrictions. Below the Apps row, you'll see a list of all the games you've downloaded. Here's what you need Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5.

This makes it so much easier to enter your user name and password or just type in the name of an app or show. You can find the screen-mirroring option in the settings of the Roku. Choose "Control" and select "Connect. Don't show this again. The card-based interface behaves in a familiar way, making it easier to do the things you want to do without a convoluted menu system. Google Cast , which was originally just called Chromecast, is the easiest to use of all the standards discussed in this article. In fact, the entire interface is based around voice-activated searching, which you can use through one-click remotes with a built-in mic. We delete comments that violate our policy , which we encourage you to read. Android TV supports voice commands, as long as you have the necessary hardware that'll allow Android TV to hear you. You can find them in local electronics stores.

If your phone doesn't have the shortcut option, don't give up. To manually unveil the keyboard, select the keyboard icon near the bottom of your display. In the age of smartphones, we keep everything stored on our little pocket computers: pictures, spreadsheets, documents, videos, music, and everything in between. If you can't find the Screen Cast option in the Quick Settings panel, tap on the pencil icon to edit which options are available and add the Screen Cast button. You shouldn't need to do anything special other than making sure your smartphone or tablet is in landscape mode to get the best viewing experience. It's not clear why some devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy S10 , don't include the cast button in the settings panel. Samsung, on the other hand, has been pushing a platform it's heavily invested in: Tizen. It comes with a touchpad on the size to replace your remote's d-pad or touchpad, and pairs using a USB dongle. There's a shortcut: The Quick Settings panel. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive.

When prompted, choose "Pair" to connect your phone. On your smartphone or tablet, pull down the extended notifications using two fingers to swipe from the very top edge of the display downwards. Open the app and follow the instructions to reach the main page. Select a text field on your Apple TV. Google Home is also the app you use to mirror your display, although, with many popular apps like YouTube, you simply need to tap the cast icon, which looks like a box or TV with the Wi-Fi symbol in the corner. Android TV comes with Chromecast built-in. Provide the app the necessary permission, then select your TV in the popup make sure your it's turned on. Just tap the Cast button on your mobile app to start playing on your TV.

Windows Mac iPhone Android. Of the two technologies, Miracast is older. The keyboard can be revealed in two ways — by picking a text box on your TV or by selecting the keyboard icon in the upper right corner of the app. There's a shortcut: The Quick Settings panel. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming. A push notification will appear on your phone. Select a text field on your Apple TV. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive. And Chromecast setup is easy.

Just tap the Cast button on your mobile app to start playing on your TV. To set up, first open the app and log into the same Amazon account used to set up your Fire TV device or television. Remember, whenever you're mirroring your screen, anything and everything that shows up on your phone or tablet's display will also show up on the TV. The card-based interface behaves in a familiar way, making it easier to do the things you want to do without a convoluted menu system. Now, the idea of connecting a smartphone to a TV is nothing new —far from it, in fact. Whether you're streaming a movie, taking part in a video call or playing a game on your TV, mirroring your Android phone's display to your television set is a step worth taking. Meaning, any alerts and notifications, along with their contents, will be broadcast for all to see. If you want to share this content with other people, though, why huddle around a tiny screen when you have that nice, big TV just sitting there? Our Best Phone Hacks Delivered daily to your inbox.

Once paired, selecting a text field with the app will reveal the keyboard. Open the app and follow the instructions to reach the main page. It supports either 2. It comes with a touchpad on the size to replace your remote's d-pad or touchpad, and pairs using a USB dongle. Just tap the Cast button on your mobile app to start playing on your TV. Choose "Remote" along the bottom of the app and select the keyboard icon in the upper right corner to reveal the keyboard. You can use up to four gamepads, Android phones, or tablets at once when competing against friends. Select a text field on your Apple TV. Choose the directional pad tab and then select the keyboard button to start typing.

We delete comments that violate our policy , which we encourage you to read. The biggest downside is latency. Remember, whenever you're mirroring your screen, anything and everything that shows up on your phone or tablet's display will also show up on the TV. The good news here is that there a couple of different types of connections that allow just this: Google Cast and Miracast. Passive cables do not do any conversion themselves. Whether you're streaming a movie, taking part in a video call or playing a game on your TV, mirroring your Android phone's display to your television set is a step worth taking. But typing is such a terrible experience when you're forced to use voice dictation or peck around with the remote control. Not all Miracast dongles are created equal, so you may or may not be able to stream things like Netflix or YouTube to every TV. Select a text field on your Apple TV. So how do you get that screen from your smartphone or tablet to your TV?

Either way, open the app and pair your phone with your Apple TV. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive. A push notification will appear on your phone. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion. It offers voice control thanks to the integration of Google Assistant and gives you control across other devices, like your Android phone and WearOS watch. You can use up to four gamepads, Android phones, or tablets at once when competing against friends. A Chromecast device doesn't only allow mirroring, but you can also play your favorite shows from streaming apps on your TV. Again, research is your friend. Ensure the Android device is in landscape mode to obtain the best viewing experience.

Now, the idea of connecting a smartphone to a TV is nothing new —far from it, in fact. For newer Vizio televisions with SmartCast, the corresponding app will allow you to use the phone's keyboard. Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5. If you don't own an Android TV-compatible television, but want to cast content from your laptop or mobile device to your television, you need to buy a Chromecast HDMI dongle from Google and plug it into your television. It uses the same basic technology as DisplayPort to pass audio and video to a television or monitor. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming. It supports either 2. If you can't find the Screen Cast option in the Quick Settings panel, tap on the pencil icon to edit which options are available and add the Screen Cast button. It isn't as common for manufacturers to include a Micro HDMI port in their device as it was just a few years ago. They work with essentially any TV because they perform the actual conversion, but to do this, they require an additional power source usually in the form of a built-in full-size USB plug.

Once paired, selecting a text field with the app will reveal the keyboard. This makes it so much easier to enter your user name and password or just type in the name of an app or show. It is easy to operate, can be controlled via voice using the Google Assistant , and has some decent apps. On Android smartphones, whenever you select a text field, the keyboard will automatically appear. Another really cool feature is the compatibility with both Android and iOS devices. Open the app and select the Chromecast device you want to use. Here's everything you need to know about it, including how it works, when you can use it, and which devices offer it. Not all Miracast dongles are created equal, so you may or may not be able to stream things like Netflix or YouTube to every TV. Choose the directional pad tab and then select the keyboard button to start typing.

How-To Geek is where you turn when you want experts to explain technology. You can find the screen-mirroring option in the settings of the Roku. Google Home is also the app you use to mirror your display, although, with many popular apps like YouTube, you simply need to tap the cast icon, which looks like a box or TV with the Wi-Fi symbol in the corner. Not all Miracast dongles are created equal, so you may or may not be able to stream things like Netflix or YouTube to every TV. Here's what you need Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5. This makes it so much easier to enter your user name and password or just type in the name of an app or show. Android TV lets you quickly customise your TV's content to suit you. Choose the directional pad tab and then select the keyboard button to start typing. This versatility is great for households that have both major mobile platforms.

In the age of smartphones, we keep everything stored on our little pocket computers: pictures, spreadsheets, documents, videos, music, and everything in between. The Roku 2 and newer boxes by Roku support casting. Like MHL and Slimport, these are two means to the same end. It is easy to operate, can be controlled via voice using the Google Assistant , and has some decent apps. You can use up to four gamepads, Android phones, or tablets at once when competing against friends. Select your device from the list and input the corresponding four-digit code which appears on your TV. Essential entertainment apps are available, and there's the opportunity for Android's app developers to adapt apps for the big screen experience. Ensure the Android device is in landscape mode to obtain the best viewing experience.

Skip to content. How-To Geek is where you turn when you want experts to explain technology. On your smartphone or tablet, pull down the extended notifications using two fingers to swipe from the very top edge of the display downwards. You can also finish a level on your phone and play the next one on your TV, as Google Play Games saves your progress. Here's everything you need to know about it, including how it works, when you can use it, and which devices offer it. On select TVs and devices, you may also see the manufacturer's apps. Either way, open the app and pair your phone with your Apple TV. Get a lifetime subscription to VPN Unlimited for all your devices with a one-time purchase from the new Gadget Hacks Shop, and watch Hulu or Netflix without regional restrictions. Google Chromecast also works with iPhones and iPads.

It supports either 2. After the initial prompt and permission request, you will be directed to "Pair a new device," choose your device and input the PIN that appears on your television to complete the process. The Best Tech Newsletter Anywhere Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles. It isn't as common for manufacturers to include a Micro HDMI port in their device as it was just a few years ago. Open it, and the keyboard will open, allowing you to input text. It's not clear why some devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy S10 , don't include the cast button in the settings panel. In fact, the entire interface is based around voice-activated searching, which you can use through one-click remotes with a built-in mic. The problem really lies with your phone. After you plug the dongle into your TV and attach the power cable, download and launch the Google Home app. June 7, p.

Get a lifetime subscription to VPN Unlimited for all your devices with a one-time purchase from the new Gadget Hacks Shop, and watch Hulu or Netflix without regional restrictions. Here's how:. A push notification will appear on your phone. You can find them in local electronics stores. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming. Now playing: Watch this: Surprising Android tricks an iPhone can't do. The Best Tech Newsletter Anywhere Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles. It uses the same basic technology as DisplayPort to pass audio and video to a television or monitor. Android TV supports voice commands, as long as you have the necessary hardware that'll allow Android TV to hear you.

The last row on the home screen isn't necessarily a row but rather a dedication area where you can click through to access settings, timers, and help guides. To stop casting your screen, tap on the button labeled Stop mirroring in the Home app. Discuss: Cast and mirror an Android screen to your TV in three easy steps Sign in to comment Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive. Select a text field on your Apple TV. If this is your first time using the app, you will need to create an account. Why develop your own apps, when the community will be developing for Android TV? In a nutshell, Android TV is essentially Android optimised for the big screen. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience.

When prompted, choose "Pair" to connect your phone. Now, the idea of connecting a smartphone to a TV is nothing new —far from it, in fact. The last row on the home screen isn't necessarily a row but rather a dedication area where you can click through to access settings, timers, and help guides. It's about making your TV smart and doing it with an interface that's recognisable and easy to use. Additionally, select any text field to open the keyboard. Photos, for example, will only work with Google Cast. Again, research is your friend. Go wired, instead. Passive cables do not require separate power.

Screen mirroring is built into the Home app. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. After you plug the dongle into your TV and attach the power cable, download and launch the Google Home app. It supports either 2. If this is your first time using the app, you will need to create an account. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive. Skip to content. Right at the top of the interface you'll see the search utility powered by Google Assistant.

On your smartphone or tablet, pull down the extended notifications using two fingers to swipe from the very top edge of the display downwards. Passive cables do not do any conversion themselves. Stop casting your screen by following the same steps and selecting Disconnect when prompted. Select a text box on your television using the app to reveal the keyboard. The keyboard can be revealed in two ways — by picking a text box on your TV or by selecting the keyboard icon in the upper right corner of the app. On Android smartphones, whenever you select a text field, the keyboard will automatically appear. Now, back to the vertical rows on the home screen. It's a question that is both simple and complex.

Hot Latest. Here's what you need Start with an Android phone or tablet -- it should work with device software as old as Android 5. This makes it incredibly easy to not only watch Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, or other movie services, but also share images, home videos, and even presentations when the need arises. By using Lifewire, you accept our. There are two different types of MHL cables available: active and passive. Esto también se puede leer en español. This makes it so much easier to enter your user name and password or just type in the name of an app or show. SlimPort is a new technology designed for all sorts of devices from smartphones to tablets to cameras. Not all Miracast dongles are created equal, so you may or may not be able to stream things like Netflix or YouTube to every TV.

Hot Latest. In a nutshell, Android TV is essentially Android optimised for the big screen. If you can't find the Screen Cast option in the Quick Settings panel, tap on the pencil icon to edit which options are available and add the Screen Cast button. Lifewire uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Using the home app isn't a lot of work, but there's an even easier way: Use the Casting shortcut in the quick settings panel. A Chromecast device doesn't only allow mirroring, but you can also play your favorite shows from streaming apps on your TV. It relies on your Android device to be the brains behind the operation, while it simply casts your Android screen onto your television set. Leer en español. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion.

Full screen mirroring will always work with Google Cast, but only sometimes work with Miracast. It's also relatively easy to set up, and because it works wirelessly, you can have your device in your hands on the couch while you cast the screen to your TV. That can be anything from information services like weather, through to gaming. The card-based interface behaves in a familiar way, making it easier to do the things you want to do without a convoluted menu system. Select "Choose A Device to Control" near the bottom of the page and choose your device. Ensure the Android device is in landscape mode to obtain the best viewing experience. If you are watching a movie, this limitation isn't a big deal, but if you want to play a game or watch YouTube videos, it isn't ideal. There's a shortcut: The Quick Settings panel.