The fastest way: use AirPlay with a Samsung TV that supports it

Most newer Samsung TVs can receive AirPlay directly from an iPhone without any extra hardware. If your TV was made in 2018 or later, it likely has this built in. Open Control Center on your iPhone (swipe down from the top right), tap Screen Mirroring, and select your Samsung TV from the list. Your screen will appear on the TV within seconds.

If your TV does not appear in the list, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart your iPhone and TV if the connection fails. Some Samsung models require you to enable AirPlay in the TV settings first — check your TV's manual or settings menu under Connections or Smart Hub.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung TVs made in 2018 or later usually support AirPlay directly, so you can mirror your iPhone screen without buying anything extra.
  • Both your iPhone and TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for any wireless connection method to work.
  • If your TV is older or does not support AirPlay, you can use an HDMI adapter with a Lightning cable, which costs between $20 and $50.
  • Casting apps like Netflix and YouTube work on Samsung TVs even if screen mirroring does not, so check whether your specific app supports casting first.

Using an HDMI adapter if your TV does not support AirPlay

Older Samsung TVs and some newer models do not have AirPlay. In that case, buy a Lightning to HDMI adapter (Apple's official version costs around $50, or third-party versions run $20 to $30). Plug the adapter into your iPhone's charging port, connect an HDMI cable to the adapter, and plug the other end into any HDMI port on your TV.

Switch your TV to the correct HDMI input using the remote. Your iPhone screen will appear when ready. This method works for everything — photos, videos, apps, web pages — but your phone will be tethered to the cable. The adapter also charges your iPhone while in use, which is helpful for longer sessions.

Casting individual apps instead of your whole screen

If you only want to send video from Netflix, YouTube, or another streaming app to your Samsung TV, you do not need to mirror your entire screen. Open the app, look for a Cast icon (usually a rectangle with curved lines in the corner), and tap it. Select your Samsung TV from the list. The video will play on the TV while you can use your iPhone for other things.

This method works on most Samsung TVs regardless of age, because the TV does not need AirPlay — the app itself handles the connection. Check whether your specific app supports casting by looking in its settings or help section. Casting uses less battery than screen mirroring and gives you more control over what appears on the TV.

Connecting through Samsung SmartThings if you have the app

Samsung's SmartThings app (free on the App Store) can connect your iPhone to a Samsung TV and let you use your phone as a remote. read the app, sign in with a Samsung account, and add your TV to the app by following the on-screen steps. Once added, you can control the TV, launch apps, and in some cases mirror your screen through the app itself.

This method is most useful if you want remote control rather than screen mirroring. The app also lets you manage other Samsung smart home devices from one place. Not all TV models work with SmartThings, so check your TV's manual or the app to see whether yours is supported.

Troubleshooting when your iPhone will not connect

If your iPhone does not appear on your TV's screen mirroring list, first check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Open Settings on your iPhone and confirm the network name. Then check your TV's Wi-Fi settings the same way. If they match and the connection still fails, restart both devices — turn off your iPhone completely, then turn it back on, and do the same for your TV.

If restarting does not work, forget the Wi-Fi network on your iPhone (Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the network name, then Forget) and reconnect by entering the password again. On your TV, restart the SmartHub or the entire TV. If your TV is very old and does not have Wi-Fi at all, the HDMI adapter is your only wireless-free option.

Choosing between screen mirroring and casting for your needs

Screen mirroring shows everything on your iPhone — your home screen, notifications, and any app you open. Use this when you want to show photos, browse the web together, or play a game on the big screen. Casting sends only the video from one app while you keep your phone free for texts and calls. Use casting when you are watching a movie or show and do not need to interact with your phone.

Screen mirroring drains your iPhone battery faster because it is constantly sending video data. Casting is more efficient and lets the app handle the connection directly. For everyday use, casting is usually the better choice. Use screen mirroring when you specifically need to show your whole screen or control something on the TV from your phone.

What to do if you do not have a Samsung TV yet

If you are shopping for a Samsung TV and want the easiest iPhone connection, look for models from 2018 onward with built-in AirPlay support. Samsung's QLED and The Frame lines typically include it. Check the product page or manual before buying to confirm AirPlay is listed under Connections or Smart Features.

Even if a TV does not have AirPlay, you can still use HDMI adapters or casting apps, so lack of AirPlay is not a deal-breaker. The choice between TV brands should depend on picture quality, price, and features that matter to you — iPhone compatibility is straightforward to add with a $20 adapter if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Samsung account to connect my iPhone to my TV?

No. Screen mirroring and HDMI adapters work without any account. You only need a Samsung account if you want to use the SmartThings app for remote control or to set up advanced features. Basic AirPlay mirroring requires only that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Can I connect my iPhone to a Samsung TV without Wi-Fi?

Yes, using an HDMI adapter with a Lightning cable. This is the only wireless-free method and works on any Samsung TV with an HDMI port. Wi-Fi is required for AirPlay, casting, and SmartThings.

Why does my iPhone keep disconnecting from my Samsung TV?

Weak Wi-Fi signal is the most common cause. Move your router closer to the TV or use a Wi-Fi extender. Also check that your iPhone and TV are on the same network band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) — some devices default to different bands. Restart both devices if disconnections continue.

Can I use AirPlay on a Samsung TV that is 10 years old?

No. AirPlay support started around 2018 on Samsung TVs. If your TV is older, use an HDMI adapter with a Lightning cable instead. This method works on any TV with an HDMI port, regardless of age.

What is the difference between mirroring and casting?

Mirroring sends your entire iPhone screen to the TV — everything you see appears there. Casting sends only one app's video while your phone stays free for other use. Casting is more battery-efficient and works on older TVs through individual apps like Netflix.