AirPlay technology has revolutionized the way we consume multimedia content, providing seamless streaming from Apple devices to your big-screen TV. Roku, as one of the most user-friendly streaming devices, also supports the use of AirPlay.
In this guide we’ll cover how to set up Roku for AirPlay, explore which devices are compatible, and share tips and steps for error resolution.
Related: How to Screen mirror to Roku from iPhone, Android, Windows, or Mac
Also.. we will talk further on mirroring content from various Apple devices to Roku and clarify the difference between AirPlay and HomeKit. By the end of this post, you will be an expert at streaming and viewing your favorite content using Roku and AirPlay.
At a Glance – Getting Airplay to work with Roku goes as follows:
- Make sure Airplay is enabled in Roku settings (important)
- Open the Control Center on your iPhone, iPad, or Macbook
- Tap Screen Mirroring in the Control Center.
- Select your Roku
- Alternatively you can use tap the Airplay icon within the app your using (e.g. Youtube, Netflix, Spotify, Apple music)
We’ll cover each of these steps in much greater detail throughout this guide
- Setting Up Roku for AirPlay
- How to stream to Your Roku via AirPlay
- Connecting Apple Devices to Roku
- How to airplay photos and videos from your camera roll to Roku & Roku TV from iOS
- Airplay versus other Screen Mirroring Approaches
- How to setup and use Homekit with your Roku or Roku TV (and what controls are available)
- FAQ
- How can I check if My Roku supports Airplay?
- Why won’t the AirPlay code appear?
- Why is my Roku device not appearing in the AirPlay menu?
- Can I cast a non-apple device via Airplay to Roku?
- Can I use Roku with my iPhone hotspot
- Why will my TV not power on or off using HomeKit?
- How do I mirror my iPhone or iPad to my Roku without Wi-Fi?
Setting Up Roku for AirPlay
By enabling AirPlay on your Roku device, you can stream content from your Apple device directly to your Roku, allowing you to enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, photos, and music on a bigger screen
Related: How to Fix Screen Mirroring and Casting Not Working on Roku
This process is incredibly simple and user-friendly, making it easy for even the most non-tech savvy individuals to set up.
How to enable Airplay on Roku
This process is incredibly user-friendly and straightforward, meaning you can start streaming content from your Apple device to your Roku in no time.
Enabling AirPlay on your Roku device is a simple process that can be done in a few steps:
- First, you need to navigate to the settings menu on your Roku home screen.
- Once you’re in the settings menu, scroll down and select the option labeled “Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.” In this menu, you will find an option to enable AirPlay.
- Simply toggle this option on, and your Roku device is now ready to receive AirPlay streams from compatible Apple devices.
Also see the Best Screen Mirroring Apps for iPhone if Airplay isn’t working on your Roku
Whether you want to show off your latest vacation photos from your Apple camera roll, share a funny video, or simply watch your favorite show on a bigger screen, enabling AirPlay on your Roku device makes it all possible.
Also see our guide on how to hook up Roku.
Which Roku devices can use Airplay & Homekit? (Compatibility explained)
Not all Roku devices are compatible with AirPlay and HomeKit. To determine if your Roku device is compatible, you can manually check the compatibility by navigating to the settings > system > about on your Roku device.
If you’ve updated your Roku software to the latest version and don’t see airplay in your Settings, your Roku device likely doesn’t support Airplay.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Roku Compatibility (Device & OS) | |
| Roku Select & Plus Series TVs | Supports Apple AirPlay & HomeKit regardless of OS |
| Roku Devices (OS 9.4 or higher) | Roku TV™ (Axxxx, Cxxxx, etc.), Roku Streambar® (9102), Roku Ultra (4662, etc.) |
| Roku Devices (OS 10.0 or higher) | Roku TV (Dxxxx, 8xxxx), Roku HD (3932), Roku 2 (4205, 4210) |
| Apple Device Compatibility | |
| iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch | iOS 12.3 or later |
| Mac | macOS Mojave 10.14.5 or later |
| Settings for Continuous Connection | |
| Roku TV & Roku Streambar | Enable “Fast TV start” or “Fast start” (Note: Uses more power) |
| Roku players | Typically remain powered on & connected to the network |
Roku Select and Plus Series TVs natively support these Apple features, regardless of their Roku OS version. However, for other Roku streaming devices, compatibility varies:
- Devices that require Roku OS 9.4 or higher include models like Roku TV™ (Axxxx, Cxxxx, CxxGB, 7xxxx) and Roku Ultra (4662, 4801) among others.
- On the other hand, devices like Roku TV (Dxxxx, 8xxxx) and Roku HD (3932) need Roku OS 10.0 or above (source)
Is my Apple device compatible?
The compatibility of AirPlay 2 is not just limited to Roku devices; your Apple gadget needs to be up-to-date as well. Ensure you’re using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 12.3 or later.
For Mac users, your system should run macOS Mojave 10.14.5 or later. Visit the Apple support website for comprehensive details.
Settings to keep in mind:
Setting up your Roku device to support AirPlay and HomeKit also means ensuring it maintains a consistent network connection.
If you own a Roku TV system or Roku Streambar, they might disconnect from the wireless network when switched off. To prevent this and ensure uninterrupted AirPlay and HomeKit access, enable the “Fast TV start” (for TV) or “Fast start” (for Streambar) feature.
Keep in mind, however, that these modes use more power and change default power settings. But don’t fret if you have a Roku player, as they typically stay powered on, preserving their connection to your network.
Explore our curated selection of the best screen mirroring apps for Roku.
How to stream to Your Roku via AirPlay
Streaming to your Roku device via AirPlay is a simple and convenient way to enjoy your favorite content on a larger screen.
Whether you’re streaming from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, AirPlay allows you to share content directly to your Roku device for a more immersive viewing experience.
Related: Planning to stream your favorite content? Make your streaming experience seamless and easy with the Roku tips you can use.
Airplay iPhone to Roku
- To AirPlay from your iPhone to your Roku device, first ensure that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that Roku has Airplay enabled via settings > Airplay.
- Then, open the content you wish to stream on your iPhone.
- Tap on the AirPlay icon, which usually appears when you start playing media.
- A list of available devices will appear.
- Select your Roku device from the list, and your content will begin playing on your Roku device.
See our post on How to Screen mirror to Roku from iPhone, Android, Windows, or Mac
On certain apps like Spotify, Youtube, or Apple music, you may also see the Airplay icon which looks like this:
This process is simple and intuitive, making it easy to share your favorite content from your iPhone to your Roku device.
Whether you’re sharing a funny video, streaming your favorite show, or playing music for a party, AirPlay makes it easy to share content from your iPhone to your Roku device.
Related: How to watch Roku on my iPhone or Android Smartphone for on-the-go streaming.
Airplay iPad to Roku
The process to AirPlay from your iPad to your Roku device is nearly identical to the process on the iPhone. Make sure both your iPad and Roku device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that roku has airplay enabled
Open the content you want to stream on your iPad and tap the AirPlay icon. From the list of available devices, select your Roku device. Your content will then begin playing on your Roku device.
Whether you’re sharing a slideshow of photos, streaming a movie, or playing some music, AirPlay makes it easy to share content from your iPad to your Roku device. It’s a simple and effective way to enjoy your favorite content on a bigger screen.
Related: Browse our tutorial on how to connect roku remote to tv and pair it.
Airplay Mac to Roku
AirPlaying from your Mac to your Roku device is also a simple process.
- Click on the AirPlay icon in the menu bar at the top of your screen. This icon looks like a rectangle with a triangle at the bottom, but Macbooks running Ventura may see a control panel option that will show screen mirroring.
- If you don’t see The icon, Press cmd + Spacebar, and type in “Displays”, then hit enter and toggle the “show mirroring options” on.
- From the drop-down menu, select your Roku device. You may have to enter a Airplay passcode.
- Your Mac’s screen will now be mirrored on your Roku device, allowing you to share content directly from your Mac to your Roku device.
This feature is particularly useful for sharing presentations, watching movies, or even playing games from your Mac on a bigger screen. It’s a convenient way to share content from your Mac to your Roku device without the need for any cables or wires.
You can also Take a look at our article the Roku channel list which includes the Roku live TV channel list.
Connecting Apple Devices to Roku
Connecting your Apple devices to your Roku device enhances your streaming experience by allowing you to control your Roku device using your Apple device. This not only makes it easier to navigate your Roku device but also allows you to stream content from your Apple device directly to your Roku.
Connecting iOS Devices
To connect your iOS device to your Roku device, you’ll first need to download and install the Roku app from the App Store. Once the app is installed, open it and follow the prompts to connect it to your Roku device. Once your iOS device is connected, you can use the Roku app to control your Roku device and stream content from your iOS device to your Roku device.
This process is simple and straightforward, making it easy for you to connect your iOS device to your Roku device. Whether you want to use your iPhone or iPad to control your Roku device or stream content from your iOS device to your Roku, connecting your iOS device to your Roku enhances your streaming experience.
Side Note: Discover everything you need to know about roku bluetooth in our blog post.
Connecting Mac Devices
Connecting your Mac to your Roku device allows you to mirror your Mac’s screen on your Roku device, making it easy to share content from your Mac to your Roku. To connect your Mac to your Roku device, ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then, use the screen mirroring feature in your Mac’s system preferences to connect it to your Roku device.
Once your Mac is connected to your Roku device, you can easily share content from your Mac to your Roku. Whether you’re sharing a presentation, watching a movie, or playing a game, connecting your Mac to your Roku device makes it easy to share content on a larger screen.
Difference between Airplay and Homekit
AirPlay and HomeKit are both Apple features that enhance your streaming and smart home experience, but they serve different purposes. AirPlay is a wireless streaming service that allows you to stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to your Roku device.
This means you can enjoy your favorite shows, movies, and music on a larger screen without the need for any wires or cables.
On the other hand, HomeKit is Apple’s smart home ecosystem that allows you to control your Roku device, along with other compatible smart home devices, using Siri or the Home app on your Apple device. This means you can control your Roku device using voice commands or through the Home app on your Apple device.
In addition to AirPlay, using HomeKit can provide an added level of convenience and control over your Roku device. For instance, you can use HomeKit to control your Roku device along with other smart home devices to create a seamless and integrated smart home experience.
While using AirPlay and HomeKit, it is often confusing to distinguish their functions. Gain a clearer understanding overall about Roku reading our post on what exactly a Roku does.
How to airplay photos and videos from your camera roll to Roku & Roku TV from iOS
AirPlaying photos and videos from your camera roll to your Roku or Roku TV is a great way to share your memories with others. To do this, open the photo or video on your iOS device and tap the share icon. From the share menu, select AirPlay and then select your Roku device from the list. Your photo or video will now be displayed on your Roku or Roku TV.
This feature is particularly useful for sharing photos and videos with a group of people. Instead of everyone crowding around your iOS device to see your photos or videos, you can easily share them on your Roku or Roku TV for everyone to see.
Airplay versus other Screen Mirroring Approaches
AirPlay offers several advantages over other screen mirroring approaches. One of the main advantages of AirPlay is its ease of use. Setting up AirPlay on your Roku device is a simple process, and streaming content from your Apple device to your Roku device is just as easy.
Another advantage of AirPlay is the quality of the stream. AirPlay streams content in high definition, ensuring that your photos, videos, and other content look their best on your Roku device.
Finally, AirPlay is compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This means you can use AirPlay to stream content from almost any Apple device to your Roku device.
How to setup and use Homekit with your Roku or Roku TV (and what controls are available)
Setting up and using HomeKit with your Roku or Roku TV allows you to control your Roku device using Siri or the Home app on your Apple device. To set up HomeKit, navigate to the settings on your Roku device and select “Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.”
From there, select “HomeKit” and follow the prompts to set up. Once HomeKit is set up, you can use Siri or the Home app to control your Roku device.
The controls available through HomeKit include power, volume/mute, input switching, and basic remote control commands. This means you can use Siri or the Home app to turn your Roku device on or off, adjust the volume, switch inputs, and control basic functions of your Roku device.
Solving Common Airplay Problems on Roku
If you’re having trouble using AirPlay on your Roku device, there are a few common issues you can check for. These include network connectivity problems, hardware and compatibility issues, and other frequently encountered issues.
If you’re experiencing network connectivity problems, ensure that both your Roku and Apple device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If they’re not, you won’t be able to use AirPlay.
Side note: We all run into issues whilst dealing with technology. Get instant fixes for your troubles with our post on how to fix a Roku device or a Roku TV that won’t connect to the internet.
If you’re experiencing hardware or compatibility issues, check that your Roku device is compatible with AirPlay. Not all Roku devices are compatible with AirPlay, so it’s important to check your device’s compatibility.
Finally, if you’re experiencing other frequently encountered issues, ensure that AirPlay is enabled on your Roku device. If AirPlay is disabled, you won’t be able to use it to stream content from your Apple device to your Roku device.
FAQ
How can I check if My Roku supports Airplay?
You can check if your Roku supports AirPlay by navigating to the settings menu on your Roku device. From there, select “Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.” If your Roku device supports AirPlay, you’ll see an option to enable it.
Why won’t the AirPlay code appear?
If the AirPlay code doesn’t appear, there could be a few reasons for this. First, ensure that your Roku device is compatible with AirPlay. If it’s not, you won’t be able to use AirPlay. Second, make sure both your Roku and Apple device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If they’re not, you won’t be able to use AirPlay.
Why is my Roku device not appearing in the AirPlay menu?
If your Roku device isn’t appearing in the AirPlay menu on your Apple device, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Also, ensure that AirPlay is enabled on your Roku device. If AirPlay is disabled, your Roku device won’t appear in the AirPlay menu on your Apple device.
Can I cast a non-apple device via Airplay to Roku?
No, you cannot cast a non-Apple device via AirPlay to Roku. AirPlay is a feature exclusive to Apple devices, so you can only use it to stream content from an Apple device to your Roku device.
Related: Do roku have chromecast?
Can I use Roku with my iPhone hotspot
Yes, you can use Roku with your iPhone hotspot. Just make sure your Roku device is set to connect to your iPhone’s hotspot network. This can be a useful feature if you don’t have access to a Wi-Fi network but still want to use your Roku device.
Also see our post on How To Connect Roku & Roku TV to WiFi Without Remote
Why will my TV not power on or off using HomeKit?
If your TV won’t power on or off using HomeKit, make sure your TV supports HDMI-CEC and that this feature is enabled.
Also, ensure that “1-touch play” is enabled on your Roku device. If these features aren’t enabled, you won’t be able to use HomeKit to power your TV on or off.
How do I mirror my iPhone or iPad to my Roku without Wi-Fi?
If Airplay isn’t working, then mirroring your iPhone or iPad to your Roku without Wi-Fi requires a third-party app that supports screen mirroring via a direct HDMI or USB connection
. However, this method may not work with all Roku devices. Always check the compatibility of the third-party app with your specific Roku device before attempting to mirror your iPhone or iPad without Wi-Fi.
