Connecting your phone to a TV is a great way to enjoy your favorite movies, shows, photos, and games. The process can vary depending on the type of phone and TV you have, but there are a few things you need to know before you start.
USB Cables
One of the easiest ways to get your phone’s screen on your TV is to use a USB cable. You can find these at most electronics stores, and they are usually inexpensive. Just make sure you buy the right kind of cable for your device and television. If you have a newer Android phone, you may want to consider getting a USB-C cable that can support 4K resolution.
Miracast Wireless Display
Many modern HDTVs and monitors now support Miracast, which allows your phone to mirror its screen without the need for cables. Luckily, it’s very simple to set up and works with most phones and TVs.
You’ll need a Miracast-compatible dongle, which is available at most electronics retailers. Once it’s connected, you can use your phone’s app to cast the screen to your television.
HDMI Ports
Most modern televisions and monitors now feature an HDMI port, which is used to connect a variety of devices including phones and tablets. You can then connect the USB-C to HDMI adapter and plug your Android phone into it, which will allow you to view everything on your phone’s screen on your TV.
Apple’s AirPlay
You can also connect your iPhone or iPad to a TV by using an AirPlay adapter. The AirPlay adapter is an affordable option that lets you use your iOS device to stream content to your TV via AirPlay.
DeX
Samsung smartphones and tablets with the Android operating system can use the Android deX platform to display a desktop-like interface on your TV. It requires a dock or a special DeX cable, and it will work on most Android models.
There are also a few other ways you can connect your phone to a TV, including via Bluetooth and screen mirroring. Regardless of the method you choose, make sure that your phone and TV are on the same network before you begin to connect them.
Bluetooth is an easy way to connect your phone and TV, but it’s not recommended for connecting two devices that are far apart. The devices should be within a few feet of each other and on the same Wi-Fi network.
HDMI is a great way to hook up your smartphone or tablet’s screen to your TV, but you should know that it’s not always easy to find. This is especially true if you have a newer smartphone or tablet that doesn’t have an HDMI port.
Another solution is to get an MHL-enabled TV or monitor. These devices have a micro-USB port that can connect to an MHL-compatible smartphone or tablet.
While these solutions are a little more advanced than standard hook-ups, they are worth considering if you have an older Android or non-smartphone that doesn’t have a micro-USB port or HDMI input. If you’re not sure if your TV or monitor supports MHL, you can check out the official MHL website for a list of supported products.