Apple AirPlay Issues? Here’s How To Use It Again

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Apple’s AirPlay is a useful way to transfer audio and video files from your iOS devices (iPhones, iPads) to other devices – usually the big screen of a Mac computer, Apple TV, or other types of Smart TV.

While it may be easy to quickly share your videos, photos, or music with the controls on your iPhone (or iPad), there’s always the chance that something might go wrong. In most cases AirPlay should work without any problems when you set it up, but there are a few things that can prevent you from sharing content between devices, or interfere with the web browsing that’s going on.

If you’re having problems with AirPlay, don’t panic – it’s usually caused by something as simple as a connection failure or settings that were accidentally changed. There is a good chance that you can get back up and running with a few simple steps.

Troubleshooting AirPlay

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Whenever you have a problem with AirPlay between your iPhone or iPad and another device, start by looking for the root cause.

1. If this is your first time using AirPlay, make sure the device you’re trying to connect to is compatible first.
2. Make sure that your iOS device and the device you want to track are turned on, and that they are within 20 to 30 degrees of each other. Any obstacle between them (floor, walls, furniture, etc.) can also reduce the strength of the signal.
3. Also check that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
4. Check each device for software or firmware updates, and install the latest version if possible.
5. When in doubt, restart your device and try again.
6. If you can move but can’t hear any sound (or very low volume), check the volume level on all your iOS devices and your target devices. Also make sure your iPhone or iPad’s Ring/Silent switch isn’t turned on because it can block AirPlay sound completely.
7. If the media is streaming fine but stops unexpectedly, it’s possible that one of your AirPlay-connected devices was accidentally used (by someone in your home, accidentally activating Siri, etc.). In that case you have to manually restart the AirPlay stream between your devices.

While this is a simple and easy fix for AirPlay, if your problems persist you should consider contacting Apple Support.