Did you know that more than 1 billion Apple devices around the world support AirPlay?
It’s a fantastic feature for sharing your screen or streaming media wirelessly. However, sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as we’d like.
Have you ever tried using AirPlay and noticed that it plays audio but the video is missing?
This is a common issue that can really affect your viewing experience. You may want to watch your favourite show or share a key presentation, but all you see is a blank screen with sound.
There are several reasons why this might happen. It might be software glitches, network issues, or just settings that need adjusting.
The good news is that you can often resolve this on your own, without needing any technical skills.
In this article, we’ll provide you with easy steps to fix your AirPlay.
Whether you’re using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you’ll find helpful tips to tackle this frustrating problem. Let’s dive in and get your screen back to life!
Some common causes of AirPlay Audio-Only issues
We understand that it can be quite frustrating when AirPlay plays audio but not video. Let’s explore some common reasons why this might happen:
1. Distance between devices affects AirPlay performance. If your phone and TV are too far apart, it can create challenges. AirPlay works best when your devices are close to each other.
2. Unstable Wi-Fi connection disrupts AirPlay. A weak or unreliable Wi-Fi connection can lead to issues with AirPlay during video streaming.
3. App data glitches can cause streaming problems. Sometimes, the app you use may have bad data or cache problems. This can cause issues when streaming.
4. Video format incompatibility leads to playback issues. If the video format isn’t compatible with AirPlay or your TV, you might hear audio without seeing the video.
5. Outdated firmware can cause AirPlay malfunctions. If your devices run on old software, it may affect how AirPlay functions.
6. HomeHub settings can interfere with AirPlay. If you have HomeHub enabled on your Apple TV, it might impact AirPlay’s normal operation.
Don’t worry! In the next sections, we’ll share solutions to fix these issues and help your AirPlay run smoothly again.
How to fix AirPlay when it only plays audio
Is your AirPlay only playing sound but not showing video? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
These tips work for various devices, including Apple TV, Samsung TVs, Roku, and LG TVs. Let’s get your AirPlay working properly again!
1. Keep your devices close together
Remember the “30-foot rule“. Keep your Mac or iOS device within 30 feet of your TV. If they’re too far apart, you might only get audio or experience buffering issues.
2. Update your TV’s firmware
Outdated firmware can cause problems. Here’s how to update your Apple TV:
- Go to Settings → System → Software Updates → Update Software.
- If an update is available, select “Download and Install“.
For other TV brands, check your user manual for update instructions.
3. Check your internet connection
A stable Wi-Fi connection is crucial for smooth streaming. If you’re experiencing issues:
- Restart your Wi-Fi router.
- Ensure your TV and Apple devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
4. Verify device compatibility
AirPlay works with specific devices. Make sure yours meets these requirements:
- iOS devices: iOS 11.4 or later.
- Apple TV HD or 4K: tvOS 11.4 or newer.
- Macs: macOS Monterey or later.
- HomePod: iOS 11.4 or newer.
5. Turn off Airplane Mode
Airplane Mode can interfere with AirPlay. Check if it’s on and turn it off. Sometimes, toggling Airplane Mode on and off can fix connectivity issues.
6. Review AirPlay receiver settings
Check the AirPlay settings on your Apple TV or Smart TV. A small adjustment here might solve the problem.
7. Power cycle your Apple TV
If you’re still only getting audio:
- Turn off your Apple TV.
- Unplug it from the power source.
- Wait a few seconds.
- Plug it back in and turn it on.
8. Restart your device
A simple restart can often fix temporary glitches. It’s good practice to restart your device weekly for optimal performance.
9. Disable automatic AirPlay on iOS
Your iOS device might be connecting to your TV automatically. To turn this off:
- Go to Settings → General → AirPlay & Continuity.
- Select “Automatically AirPlay “.
- Choose “Never“.
10. Turn off HomeHub on Apple TV
HomeHub can sometimes interfere with AirPlay. To turn it off:
- Go to Settings on your Apple TV.
- Select AirPlay & HomeKit.
- Find HomeHub and make sure it’s turned off.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most AirPlay audio-only issues. Remember, if one solution doesn’t work, try the next one.
With a bit of patience, you’ll have your AirPlay working perfectly in no time!
The takeaway
AirPlay not showing video can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable. We’ve covered several solutions to get your video back on track.
Remember, keeping your devices close together and making sure your TV’s software is up to date can solve many issues.
Don’t forget to check your Wi-Fi connection and ensure your devices are compatible with AirPlay. Sometimes, simple actions like turning off Airplane Mode or restarting your devices can work wonders.
Many people think AirPlay problems are always complex, but that’s not true. Often, it’s just a matter of tweaking a few settings or doing a quick restart. The key is to try these simple fixes before assuming there’s a major problem.
By applying these tips, you can usually get AirPlay working properly again.
Don’t let technical hiccups stop you from enjoying your favorite content. With a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you’ll be back to seamless streaming in no time.
We’d love to hear about your experience with AirPlay. Have you tried any of these solutions? Let us know in the comments below!
