How to Cast Apple TV to Chromecast (and When You Can't)

Apple TV and Chromecast don't work together directly

You cannot cast Apple TV content to a Chromecast device. Apple TV is built into Apple devices and designed to work with AirPlay, which is Apple's own wireless casting system. Chromecast uses Google's casting protocol, and the two are not compatible with each other. If you want to watch Apple TV content on your TV, you need either an Apple TV device, an AirPlay-compatible TV, or a device that supports both Apple TV and AirPlay.

This incompatibility exists because Apple and Google built their casting systems separately and have not made them work together. AirPlay works between Apple devices — iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TV boxes. Chromecast works with Android devices, some smart TVs, and Google services. If you own a Chromecast but want to watch Apple TV, you will need to use a different method.

Key Takeaways

Apple TV and Chromecast use different casting systems (AirPlay and Google Cast) that do not communicate with each other.
You can watch Apple TV on a Chromecast-equipped TV only if the TV itself has a built-in Apple TV app, which some newer Samsung, LG, and Roku models do.
An Apple TV device (the hardware box) plugged into your TV will let you watch Apple TV content regardless of whether you have a Chromecast.
If you have an iPhone or iPad, you can use AirPlay to send video to an AirPlay-compatible TV or Apple TV device, but not to Chromecast.
Some smart TVs support both AirPlay and Chromecast, so check your TV's specifications before buying additional hardware.

When your TV has a built-in Apple TV app

Some newer smart TVs come with the Apple TV app already installed, which means you can watch Apple TV directly on the TV without needing to cast anything. Samsung, LG, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV models made in the last few years often include this app. If your TV has the Apple TV app, you can open it, sign in with your Apple ID, and watch your content — no casting device needed.

To check whether your TV has the Apple TV app, look in your TV's app store or app menu. Search for "Apple TV" and see if it appears. If it does, you can read it (if it is not already installed) and use it directly. This works even if your TV also has Chromecast built in. The Apple TV app and Chromecast are separate features on the same TV.

Using an Apple TV device instead

An Apple TV device is a small hardware box that connects to your TV via HDMI. It runs tvOS and gives you access to the Apple TV app, Apple TV+, AirPlay, and other Apple services. You can plug an Apple TV device into any TV — whether it has Chromecast or not — and it will work independently. The Apple TV device handles all the casting and streaming itself.

Apple TV devices come in two main models: the Apple TV 4K and the Apple TV HD. Both connect to your TV and to your home Wi-Fi network. Once set up, you can use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to send video to the Apple TV device using AirPlay, or you can use the Apple TV remote to navigate the app directly. This is the most reliable way to watch Apple TV content on any TV.

AirPlay as an alternative to casting

If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you can use AirPlay to send video to an AirPlay-compatible TV or to an Apple TV device. AirPlay is Apple's wireless casting system, and it works similarly to Chromecast but only between Apple devices and Apple-compatible receivers. To use AirPlay, swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone or iPad (or click the Control Center icon on a Mac), tap or click "Screen Mirroring," and select your AirPlay device from the list.

AirPlay works with Apple TV devices, AirPlay-compatible smart TVs (made by Samsung, LG, Sony, and others), and some AirPlay-compatible speakers. It does not work with Chromecast. If your TV supports both AirPlay and Chromecast, you can use either system depending on what you are casting from — AirPlay for Apple devices, Chromecast for Android devices and Google services.

Smart TVs that support both AirPlay and Chromecast

Many newer smart TVs support both AirPlay and Chromecast at the same time. Models from Samsung (2018 and later), LG (2019 and later), Sony, and Roku often include both systems built in. If your TV supports both, you can use AirPlay to cast from an Apple device and Chromecast to cast from an Android device or Google service — all on the same TV.

To find out whether your TV supports both, check the TV's specifications on the manufacturer's website or in the manual. Look for mentions of "AirPlay 2" and "Google Cast" or "Chromecast." If your TV has both, you do not need to choose between them — you can use whichever casting method matches the device you are casting from. This is the most flexible setup if you use both Apple and Android devices in your home.

Why Apple TV and Chromecast don't work together

Apple and Google built their casting systems separately and have chosen not to make them compatible. AirPlay is proprietary to Apple and works only with Apple devices and licensed partners. Chromecast is Google's system and works with Android devices, some smart TVs, and Google services. Neither company has built a bridge between the two systems, so a Chromecast device cannot receive AirPlay signals, and an Apple TV device cannot receive Chromecast signals.

This separation is intentional — it reflects the broader competition between Apple and Google in consumer electronics. However, smart TV manufacturers have stepped in by building both systems into their TVs, which gives you the flexibility to use either casting method depending on what device you are casting from. This is why checking your TV's specifications before buying a separate casting device is important.

Your options if you have a Chromecast but want Apple TV

If you already own a Chromecast and want to watch Apple TV, you have three realistic paths forward. First, check whether your TV has a built-in Apple TV app — if it does, you can use that directly without buying anything else. Second, buy an Apple TV device and plug it into your TV alongside your Chromecast; both will work independently, and you can use whichever one matches what you are casting from. Third, replace your Chromecast with a smart TV that has both AirPlay and Chromecast built in, though this is a larger investment.

The cheapest option is usually the first one — checking your TV's app store for the Apple TV app. If that does not work, an Apple TV HD device is the next most affordable choice. You do not have to remove your Chromecast; both devices can stay connected to your TV at the same time, and you can switch between them using your TV's input menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Chromecast to watch Apple TV+?

Not directly through Chromecast. However, if your TV has a built-in Apple TV app, you can watch Apple TV+ through that app. Alternatively, you can buy an Apple TV device and use it alongside your Chromecast. Some Android phones can cast certain content to Chromecast, but Apple TV+ is restricted to Apple devices and the Apple TV app.

Will buying an Apple TV device make my Chromecast useless?

No. Both devices can stay plugged into your TV at the same time. You switch between them using your TV's input menu. Use the Apple TV device for Apple content and AirPlay, and use Chromecast for Android devices and Google services. Many households use both without any conflict.

Do all smart TVs have the Apple TV app?

No. Newer models from Samsung, LG, Roku, Sony, and Amazon Fire TV often include it, but older TVs and some budget models do not. Check your TV's app store or the manufacturer's website to see if the Apple TV app is available for your specific model.

Can I use AirPlay on a Chromecast device?

No. Chromecast devices do not support AirPlay. If you want to use AirPlay, you need an Apple TV device, an AirPlay-compatible smart TV, or an AirPlay-compatible speaker. AirPlay and Chromecast are separate systems that do not work together.

What is the cheapest way to watch Apple TV on my TV?

First, check whether your TV has a built-in Apple TV app — this costs nothing. If it does not, the Apple TV HD device is the most affordable dedicated option. An Apple TV 4K costs more but offers higher video quality. Both are cheaper than replacing your TV.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.