You can connect your Android phone to the TV using Cast, a third-party app, or a cable. Most individuals today have an app-loaded smart TV. There are times when you want to share what you’re watching on your phone or see it on a bigger screen. Android Phone users have options, like iPhone users.
Let’s go from simplest to most complex answer.
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Contents
Chromecasting
Chromecast was once the best streaming gadget for TV. Chromecast with Google TV includes its own native apps and several supported apps, such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Google Photos.
You can cast apps and Chrome web pages from your Android phone to a smart TV with a Chromecast dongle or built-in Chromecast compatibility. Your phone must be on the same Wi-Fi network as your dongle or smart TV.
For an app like HBO Max with built-in support, tap the square-shaped cast icon and choose a compatible device. Casting is the best choice for apps (and websites) with copyrighted content, since Netflix blocks screen mirroring.
Some Fire TV and Roku streaming devices support Google Cast, but check Amazon and Roku to be sure. Once connected, you can cast through your phone’s Connected Devices/Connections setup.
Mirroring Android Phone
Mirroring is great for watching phone videos. It’s good for sharing apps without protected content or casting support. You’ll need a Chromecast, smart TV, or other supported streaming device. Apple TV doesn’t work.
Connect your device to the Google Home app to use this feature. Open the app and choose the device. Tap the Cast my screen button to mirror your phone to the TV. Tap Stop mirroring when done.
Since Android 5.0 Lollipop introduced screen mirroring, manufacturer support varies. Many phones have a Cast button in the settings or pull-down shade. Smart View lets you connect and share from Samsung phones.
Adapter or cable connection
Use an HDMI cable and converter to connect your phone to your TV and reflect your screen. Which one you choose depends on the type of display you’re connected to, how long, and whether you need to charge your phone while doing it.
USB-C to HDMI adapters are easiest (Opens in a new window). If your phone has a USB-C connection, plug this adapter into it, then connect an HDMI cable to your TV. HDMI Alt Mode lets mobile devices output video.
This approach uses your phone’s charging connector, thus using it often can drain your battery. Use a USB-C to HDMI converter with a charging port (Opens in a new window). While screen mirroring, charge the phone.
Micro USB to HDMI adapters are needed for older ports (Opens in a new window). This solution requires MHL-compatible phones. Connect a supported phone to an adaptor, then an HDMI cord to a TV.
DLNA-stream
Most internet-connected TVs feature DLNA, which lets you stream your own music and videos to your TV. Netflix (and DRM material) won’t work. This covers most things you’d want to send from your phone to TV.
Apps like LocalCast and AllCast allow you stream music, images, and movies to a DLNA device like a smart TV or console. They also enable streaming to Chromecast targets, which is useful for sharing files on a TV without mirroring your full screen. Google Drive, Dropbox, and websites can be streamed.
Plex functions as a DLNA streamer, though less directly. Your computer’s Plex server can stream music, images, and videos to your TV. The mobile app lets you explore your collection, select media to stream, and transfer it to Chromecast or DLNA.
The Plex app requires that your server computer be on and connected to the internet whenever you wish to stream files. Your computer can run with the lid closed. Plex lets you host larger media files than your phone can hold.
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