Casting asks a receiver to play supported content; mirroring duplicates your device screen.
Casting and screen mirroring often appear together in TV menus, but they work differently. Choosing the right method can improve picture quality and make the experience easier to control.
Try this first
Work through these checks in order. Stop once the problem is resolved.
- 1Check that your television and phone support the same feature.
- 2Connect both to the appropriate same home network if required.
- 3Try the cast button inside an authorised streaming app.
- 4If mirroring shows a blank picture, use the supported playback route instead.
Casting hands playback to a compatible receiver
With supported apps and receivers, casting lets you select a programme on your phone and ask the television or streaming device to play it. The receiver may fetch the video directly over the internet while the phone acts as a remote control. Compatibility is dependent on the app, receiver and network.
Mirroring duplicates the phone display
Screen mirroring shows your phone or computer display on another screen. It can be useful for presentations or content without a dedicated casting feature, but it can use more battery and may show notifications. Some protected video apps restrict mirroring or display a blank picture because of content-protection requirements.
Diagnosing connection problems
Confirm both devices support the same technology and, where required, are on the same local network. Restart discovery on the app, television and phone. Guest Wi-Fi and network isolation can block device discovery even when both devices have internet access. Check official device instructions before changing router security settings.
Which method should you use?
Prefer an app’s supported casting function for everyday watching where available. Use screen mirroring for demonstrating your screen or sharing compatible local content. If an app prohibits mirroring, use its authorised viewing option rather than attempting to work around playback protections.
Some video apps intentionally restrict mirroring to protect their content.
Frequently asked questions
Why can I see the TV but not play the video?
Does casting keep using my phone battery?
Further reading
Useful manufacturer or independent guidance where this topic overlaps with their published advice:
General educational guidance assembled from device behaviour, common troubleshooting principles and linked manufacturer information where available. It is not a claim that we have personally tested every device, app or provider. Menu names and service terms can change.