You can stream Apple TV on Chromecast, but the method depends on what device you're using
Google Chromecast does not have a native Apple TV app, so you cannot read it directly onto the device. Instead, you cast Apple TV content from another device — your phone, tablet, or computer — to your Chromecast. The steps differ slightly depending on whether you own an iPhone, Android phone, Mac, or Windows PC, and whether you're using the Apple TV app or AirPlay.
The most straightforward route is casting from an Android phone or tablet using the built-in cast button in the Apple TV app. If you have an iPhone or Mac, you'll use AirPlay to send video to a Chromecast-compatible TV or speaker, which requires a few extra steps. Windows users can cast through the Apple TV website or a third-party tool.
Key Takeaways
- Android phones and tablets can cast directly from the Apple TV app by tapping the cast icon and selecting your Chromecast device.
- iPhone and Mac users need to use AirPlay to a Chromecast-compatible TV, which requires the TV itself to support AirPlay — not all do.
- You must be signed into your Apple account in the Apple TV app before you can cast any content.
- Your phone, tablet, or computer and your Chromecast must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for casting to work.
Casting from an Android phone or tablet
Open the Apple TV app on your Android device and sign in with your Apple ID. Navigate to the show or movie you want to watch. Tap the cast icon — it looks like a rectangle with curved lines in the upper right corner of the screen.
A list of available devices will appear. Select your Chromecast from the list. The content will begin playing on your TV through the Chromecast. You can control playback from your phone: pause, rewind, fast-forward, and adjust volume all work from the device in your hand. If you close the app or lock your phone, playback continues on the TV.
Using AirPlay from iPhone or Mac to a Chromecast TV
AirPlay is Apple's wireless casting system, and it works with Chromecast only if your TV itself has built-in AirPlay support. Not all Chromecast TVs include this feature — you'll need to check your TV's manual or settings to confirm. Samsung, LG, Sony, and some Vizio models support AirPlay, but many older Chromecast devices do not.
If your TV supports AirPlay, open the Apple TV app on your iPhone or Mac and start playing content. On iPhone, swipe down from the top right corner to open Control Center, then tap AirPlay. On Mac, click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar. Select your TV from the list. The video will stream to your TV through the Chromecast connection.
If your TV does not support AirPlay, you cannot use this method. Your only option is to use an Android device or to connect a different casting device that works with both Apple and Google systems.
Casting from a Windows PC
Windows computers do not have built-in AirPlay or native Chromecast casting for the Apple TV app. Your options are limited. You can open apple.com/tv in a web browser, sign in, and watch content there — most modern browsers support casting to Chromecast through the browser's cast feature. Right-click on the video player and look for a cast option, or use your browser's menu to cast the entire tab to your Chromecast.
Alternatively, you can use third-party tools like Google Home or Miracast to mirror your entire screen to the Chromecast, though this uses more bandwidth and can cause lag. The web browser method is usually faster and more reliable.
Troubleshooting common casting problems
If the cast icon does not appear in the Apple TV app, make sure your phone or tablet is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast. Restart both devices and try again. On Android, go to Settings, then Apps, find the Apple TV app, and clear the app cache — this often fixes casting issues without deleting your sign-in information.
If your Chromecast does not appear in the device list, restart your Chromecast by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for it to reconnect to Wi-Fi before trying to cast again. If you still see no devices, check that your router is working and that both devices are on the same network — some routers have separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, and your devices may be on different ones.
If video starts but then stops or buffers constantly, move your Chromecast closer to your router or reduce the number of devices using your Wi-Fi. Casting uses significant bandwidth, and a weak connection will interrupt playback. Lowering the video quality in the Apple TV app settings can also help on slower networks.
What content you can and cannot cast
Most shows and movies in the Apple TV app can be cast to Chromecast. However, some content is protected by digital rights management (DRM) and cannot be cast — you'll see a message in the app if this applies. Rentals, purchases, and Apple TV+ originals are generally castable. Live TV through Apple TV Channels may have restrictions depending on the channel's rules.
If you subscribe to Apple TV+ but cannot cast a specific title, the content provider has blocked casting for that particular show or movie. There is no workaround; you'll need to watch it on your phone, tablet, or computer instead.
Comparing casting methods by device type
| Device Type | Method | Setup Difficulty | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android phone or tablet | Cast from Apple TV app | straightforward — tap cast icon | Reliable |
| iPhone | AirPlay to compatible TV | Moderate — requires TV support | Reliable if TV supports AirPlay |
| Mac | AirPlay to compatible TV | Moderate — requires TV support | Reliable if TV supports AirPlay |
| Windows PC | Web browser cast or screen mirror | straightforward — use browser cast | Moderate — depends on network |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a paid Apple TV+ subscription to cast?
No. You can cast anything you own or rent through the Apple TV app, or content from other sources like iTunes purchases. Apple TV+ is one option, but casting works with free content and paid rentals too. You do need an Apple ID to sign in.
Can I cast Apple TV to a regular Chromecast without a smart TV?
Yes, if you have a Chromecast Audio or a Chromecast connected to a non-smart TV. From Android, use the cast button in the Apple TV app. From iPhone or Mac, you cannot use AirPlay unless the TV itself supports it — the Chromecast alone is not enough.
What happens if I lose Wi-Fi while casting?
Playback will pause or stop. Your Chromecast needs a constant connection to your Wi-Fi network to receive the video stream. Reconnect to Wi-Fi and start playing again. The app will remember where you stopped.
Can I use my phone for other things while casting?
Yes. Once casting starts, you can lock your phone, switch apps, or use it normally. The video continues playing on your TV. You can unlock your phone anytime to pause, rewind, or adjust volume using the Apple TV app.
Why does casting use so much data on my phone plan?
Casting streams video over Wi-Fi, not your phone's data plan. If you're on cellular data instead of Wi-Fi, video will use your monthly allowance quickly. Always connect to Wi-Fi before casting to avoid unexpected charges.