The two ways to connect: AirPlay and HDMI

An iPhone connects to an LG TV in two main ways: wirelessly through AirPlay, or with a cable using an HDMI adapter. AirPlay is faster to set up if your LG TV supports it — you just need both devices on the same Wi-Fi network. The HDMI route works on any LG TV but requires a physical cable and an adapter, since iPhones don't have an HDMI port.

Which method you choose depends on what you're trying to do. If you want to mirror your entire iPhone screen — to show photos, play a video, or demonstrate something — AirPlay is simpler. If you're connecting a permanent setup like a streaming box or want the most reliable connection, HDMI is more stable and doesn't depend on your Wi-Fi staying strong.

Key Takeaways

  • AirPlay works wirelessly on LG TVs made in 2019 or later that have built-in AirPlay support, but older LG models need an external device like an Apple TV.
  • To use AirPlay, both your iPhone and TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and you swipe up from the bottom of your iPhone screen to find the Screen Mirroring option.
  • HDMI requires a USB-C to HDMI adapter (for newer iPhones) or a Lightning to HDMI adapter (for older models), plus an HDMI cable, but works on any LG TV.
  • If AirPlay doesn't appear on your iPhone, restart both devices and check that your TV's AirPlay setting is turned on in the picture menu.

Using AirPlay on a newer LG TV

Most LG TVs made from 2019 onward have AirPlay built in. To check if yours does, look in your TV's settings menu — go to Picture, then scroll down to find AirPlay. If it's there and set to On, your TV is ready.

On your iPhone, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open Control Center. Tap Screen Mirroring, then select your LG TV from the list. Your iPhone screen will appear on the TV within a few seconds. To stop mirroring, swipe up again, tap Screen Mirroring, and choose Stop Mirroring.

Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network for this to work. If your iPhone doesn't show your TV in the Screen Mirroring list, restart both devices and try again. If it still doesn't appear, go back to your TV's settings and confirm AirPlay is enabled.

Using an Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible device with older LG TVs

If your LG TV is older than 2019 or doesn't have AirPlay built in, you can add it with an external device. An Apple TV (any model from the last five years) plugs into your TV's HDMI port and adds AirPlay support. Roku and some other streaming devices also support AirPlay, though you'll want to check the model before buying.

Once the device is plugged in and set up on your Wi-Fi, the process is the same: swipe up on your iPhone, tap Screen Mirroring, and select the device from the list. The TV itself doesn't need AirPlay — the external box provides it.

Connecting with an HDMI adapter and cable

If you don't have AirPlay or prefer a wired connection, you'll need an adapter. iPhones made in 2023 and later use USB-C to HDMI adapters. Older iPhones use Lightning to HDMI adapters. Both are sold by Apple and by third-party makers like Belkin and Anker for $20 to $50.

Plug the adapter into your iPhone's charging port, then connect an HDMI cable from the adapter to any HDMI port on your LG TV. Switch your TV to that HDMI input using the remote or the input button on the TV itself. Your iPhone screen will appear on the TV. The connection is when ready and doesn't depend on Wi-Fi.

This method also charges your iPhone while you're using it, since the adapter passes power through. If you're using the TV for extended periods — watching a movie or giving a presentation — the wired connection is more reliable than Wi-Fi.

What to do if your iPhone doesn't appear on the TV

If you're trying to use AirPlay and your TV doesn't show up in Screen Mirroring, start by restarting both devices. Turn off your iPhone completely, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on. Do the same with your TV using its power button or remote. Then try Screen Mirroring again.

Check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. On your iPhone, go to Settings, then Wi-Fi, and confirm which network you're connected to. On your LG TV, go to Network Settings and check the Wi-Fi name. If they don't match, connect your iPhone to the TV's network.

If you're using an HDMI adapter and the TV shows a black screen, try a different HDMI port on the TV. Some ports are reserved for specific functions, and switching ports often fixes the problem. Also check that the adapter itself isn't damaged — if the cable feels loose or the connection is intermittent, the adapter may need replacing.

Choosing between AirPlay and HDMI for your situation

Use AirPlay if you want flexibility — you can move around the room, switch between apps on your iPhone, and the setup takes seconds. It's ideal for showing photos, playing music, or mirroring what you're doing on your phone. The downside is that it depends on your Wi-Fi staying connected, and if your network is slow or crowded, the picture can lag.

Use HDMI if you need a rock-solid connection or if your TV doesn't support AirPlay. HDMI is also better if you're connecting a device that stays in one place, like a streaming box or a computer. The trade-off is that you need to buy an adapter and cable, and your iPhone is tethered to the TV by the cord.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all LG TVs have AirPlay?

No. LG TVs made from 2019 onward usually have it, but you should check your TV's settings to be sure. Go to Picture in the menu and look for AirPlay. Older LG models don't have it built in, but you can add it with an Apple TV or compatible streaming device.

Can I use AirPlay if my iPhone and TV are on different Wi-Fi networks?

No. Both devices must be on the same network. If you have a guest network separate from your main network, move your iPhone to the main network first. Some routers let you connect both the iPhone and TV to the same network even if they're in different rooms.

What if I lose the HDMI adapter?

You can buy a replacement from Apple, Best Buy, Amazon, or most electronics stores. Make sure you get the right type — USB-C to HDMI for newer iPhones, or Lightning to HDMI for older models. Third-party adapters are usually cheaper than Apple's version and work just as well.

Can I charge my iPhone while using AirPlay?

Yes, but you'll need to use a separate charger. AirPlay uses Wi-Fi, not the charging port, so you can plug your iPhone into a power outlet while mirroring. With HDMI, the adapter passes power through, so you charge automatically while connected.

Why does my screen mirroring keep disconnecting?

This usually means your Wi-Fi signal is weak or your network is congested. Move closer to your router, or restart both your iPhone and TV. If it keeps happening, try switching to the HDMI method instead, which doesn't depend on Wi-Fi at all.