How to AirPlay from iPhone to MacBook or iMac
In the recentWWDC 2021event, Apple announced the newmacOS Monterey. One of the really exciting features of macOS Monterey is the option to AirPlay from iPhone to Macs. Here’s how you do it.
AirPlay from iPhone to Mac
Note that, the newer version of macOS Monterey is in Developer Beta as of now. You’ll need a developer account in order to access the macOS Monterey but we havefound a workaround to install without an account. The stable version of macOS Monterey will launch around this fall.
What Is AirPlay
In case you don’t know, AirPlay is Apple’s wireless protocol. It helps you to cast your iPhone screen wirelessly on another Apple device. AirPlay works over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data. However, for a good stable connection, it’s recommended that all devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Previously,Macs could only AirPlayto other Apple devices like HomePod or Apple TV. However, beginning macOS Monterey, Apple will now let Macs act as AirPlay receivers too.
This simply means you can use your iPhone, iPad, or even iPod Touch (if you have one of those) to cast content on the MacBook and iMac. This lets you use your MacBook’s bigger display and louder speakers if you don’t have an Apple TV around.
AirPlay Privacy Settings
Now, by default, iPhones with the same Apple ID can only AirPlay on the Mac. So, if you want your friend’s or family’s iPhone to cast on your Mac, you’ll need to change the AirPlay privacy settings.
To do that, head over to your MacBook or iMac. HitCmd+Spaceto openSpotlightsearch. Next, typeAirplayin the search bar and click onSharingwhen it appears in the dropdown menu.
Under the Sharing menu, you’ll see theAirPlay Receivertab at the bottom where you’ll findAllow AirPlay for:with 3 options.
By default, it’s the current user. This means the device signed with the same Apple ID as the MacBook only can AirPlay. The second option means anyone on the same Wi-Fi network can AirPlay to your MacBook. It’s better to choose this option.
If you don’t have a Wi-Fi network, the last optionEveryoneshould work. This lets anyone around you AirPlay to your Mac.
Once you are done with the AirPlay settings, change AirPlay privacy settings back to Current User.
How to AirPlay From iPhone to Mac
AirPlay only works with limited apps. For this guide, I’ll be using Apple Photos to AirPlay from my iPhone to MacBook Air.
Open Photos app on iPhone and open an image. Tap on theShareicon at the bottom-left and from theShare Sheet, scroll down, and tap onAirPlay. Now AirPlay will display nearby devices that can receive AirPlay. In my case, my MacBook Air is listed. Tap on the device name to initiate an AirPlay connection.
In case you don’t see your Mac device, ensure you are logged in through the same Apple ID. Alternatively, you may also switch your AirPlay visibility to Everyone or Anyone on the same network. You can jump tothis sectionfor the steps.
Next you’ll get a request on your MacBook Air to accept the AirPlay connection after which you need to enter a one-time PIN on your iPhone.
Post the setup, you should see the same image on your Mac.
Limitations of AirPlay on Mac
Once you have accepted the connection, your iPhone content will be displayed on your Mac. Now, there are a couple of things to note here.
Apps Supported by AirPlay
All popular Apple apps like Apple TV+, Apple Music, and Photos support AirPlay. Popular third-party apps like Prime TV,HBO Max, Disney+ also support AirPlay. However, these apps already exist on Macs. You can still use the AirPlay functionality in case you feel lazy.
Netflix and YouTube don’t support AirPlay but instead rely on Google Chromecast.
Final Words: AirPlay From iPhone to Mac
With the launch of iOS 15 and macOS Monterey, the Apple ecosystem is tighter than ever while being as seamless and easy to use. Apart from AirPlay, macOS Monterey also bringsSiri shortcutsto MacBook, Safari gets a huge redesign, and there’s Universal Control. Don’t forget to check out moreWWDC 2021 updateson TW.
Also Read:10 Most Important Things Announced At WWDC 2021
Pratik works as an In-house writer and video host at TechWiser. Former Programmer, Current writer. Loves tech in any form, quite optimistic about AI, data science and IoT. Talks extremely less but you betcha can geek out over anything on Twitter.
