Roku devices are versatile, convenient, and straightforward. They provide an extensive catalog of TV shows, movies, and streaming content. You can also connect your Android to browse the web, view local files, or access apps on your TV. So, how do you get started?
Both devices must be on the same WiFi network. Enable the Screen Mirroring feature on Roku from Settings > System > Screen Mirroring. On your Android device, swipe down on the Home Screen to the Screen Mirroring button. Click the icon and search for your Roku to select it and start mirroring.
Using the screen mirroring function will help you get the most out of your Android, Roku, and TV. There are a few considerations to keep in mind, like compatibility and alternative methods. Let’s look at everything you need to know to get started.
Do All Rokus Support Screen Mirroring?
Nearly all current-generation Roku TV and streaming players support screen mirroring through Android, iOS, and Windows devices. Screen mirroring allows users to display local content from their device to their TV through a wireless connection to Roku. You can even use screen mirroring to stream IPTV Smarters on Roku or Twitch.
You can browse the web, use unsupported apps, view local files, and more when you screen mirror to Roku.
That said, a few Roku models do not support screen mirroring. The Roku models that do not support screen mirroring include the following:
- Roku Express 3700
- Roku Express+ 3710
You can determine the model information of your Roku by launching Settings > System > About.
Visit the Roku device comparison chart for more information on the current models that support screen mirroring and can help you find additional specifications.
How to Enable Screen Mirroring on Your Roku
You must enable screen mirroring on your Roku TV or device to use the feature. Depending on your configuration, you can always allow screen mirroring requests, block them altogether, or receive a prompt to approve or deny a request. To adjust these settings, use the following steps:
- Click the Home Button on the Roku Remote.
- Click ‘Settings.’
- Choose ‘System.’
- Choose ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Under ‘Screen Mirroring Mode,’ select ‘Prompt’ or ‘Always Allow,’ depending on your preferences.
- Selecting Prompt will give you a choice every time a device attempts to connect to your Roku. Always Allow lets any device connect to your Roku without an on-screen prompt.
You can also add or block devices in the ‘Screen Mirroring Devices’ menu. You can add your smartphone to the ‘Allowed Devices’ to grant it access to connect to your Roku without an on-screen prompt. Adding a device to the ‘Blocked Devices’ menu will prevent it from connecting to your Roku.
How to Screen Mirror Using Your Android
Before you begin, it is essential to understand that different Android models use varying terms for the screen mirroring function. Generally speaking, most devices running Android 10.0 or newer support screen mirroring.
Here’s a quick list of the most common phrases used to describe the screen mirroring feature:
- SmartView
- QuickConnect
- SmartShare
- AllShareCast
- Wireless display
- Display mirroring
- HTC Connect
- Screencasting
- Cast
Your Android device may use the terms above for screen mirroring. If you can’t determine the term for your model, consult the manufacturer’s website. Alternatively, you can search for “screen mirroring” with the brand or model of your device online for more information.
Use the Smart View Feature to Screen Mirror on Android
These instructions are for Android devices using Smart View to describe the screen mirroring functions. You may be able to use the same steps for devices that use different terms to describe the feature. Use the following guide to get started:
- To use the Smart View feature on Android, swipe down on the Home Screen to use the Control Center.
- Now that the Control Center is visible scroll to the right to locate the Smart View button (or similar term).
- Click the Smart View button to turn the feature on.
- Accept the Location and Storage prompts to access the Smart View option. Afterward, click Continue.
- Now, the Smart View option will launch and display all nearby Roku devices connected to the same WiFi network.
- Select the Roku model to begin mirroring your Android screen.
Can You Screen Mirror Without WiFi?
No, it is not possible to screen mirror your Android smartphone or tablet without a WiFi connection. The feature requires both the Android and Roku device to be on the same WiFi network.
However, if your Roku model is connected to the internet via ethernet, you can screen mirror your device if it is on the same WiFi network.
What Are Some Other Ways to Screen Mirror?
There are alternative methods for screen mirroring besides Android devices. You can cast supported apps or mirror your screen on iPhone, Mac, and Windows devices. For example, screen mirroring is one way you can get Zoom on your TV. Use the instructions below depending on your device.
How to Cast Supported Apps Using Android
Another way you can connect to your Roku TV or Roku model is to cast supported apps from your Android device. Popular apps include YouTube, Spotify, Netflix, and Crunchyroll. The exact instructions will vary depending on the app, but here are a few examples to give you a better idea of the process:
- Let’s say you want to cast a YouTube video on your Android to your Roku TV. From any video on the YouTube App, click the Cast button to display all nearby devices on the same WiFi network you can cast to.
- Your Roku TV or device must be connected to the same WiFi network as your Android. It will appear in the list of nearby devices. You can click the Roku model to connect and cast content from your smartphone.
- If you want to cast a song from Spotify, select the Devices button at the bottom of the Spotify App.
- Spotify will locate nearby devices on the same WiFi network you can cast to. Once your Roku model appears, tap it to begin casting.
You can find out more information about the services and apps that support casting to Roku devices by visiting the Roku Setup Page. If you encounter any issues, you can also contact Roku Customer Support for additional assistance.
How to Screen Mirror Using an iPhone
Alternatively, you can mirror your display to your Roku using an iPhone or iOS device. The steps are similar to Android devices—your Roku must have the feature enabled, and both devices must be on the same WiFi network. Use the following steps to get started:
- Launch the Control Center on your iPhone.
- Next, choose ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Select your Roku model from the list of nearby devices.
- A code will appear on the TV that’s linked to your Roku device. Type the code on your iPhone and select ‘OK.’
You can end screen mirroring by clicking the Home Button on the Roku Remote. Alternatively, you can end the process by selecting ‘Stop Mirroring’ from the Control Center on your iPhone.
How to Screen Mirror Using a Mac
Mac computers and laptops can also mirror their displays through a Roku connection. Both devices must be on the same WiFi connection, and the feature must be enabled on Roku. Here’s how to get started:
- Press the Apple Icon near the top left of the screen and click ‘System Preference.’
- Next, select ‘Displays.’
- Click on ‘AirPlay Display’ or ‘Display Listed,’ depending on your model.
- Select your Roku model from the list of available devices to start Screen Mirroring.
These steps should allow you to cast content from your Mac display to your TV. You can browse the web, access apps, or view locally stored files.
How to Screen Mirror Using a Windows PC
Windows PCs can also mirror their display to compatible Roku devices. Like all of the other methods, ensure both devices are on the same WiFi network, and the feature is enabled. Use the following instructions to get started.
- Click the Windows Key + P to launch the Connect App on your computer or laptop.
- Alternatively, you can open the Action Center and select Connect.
- Once your Roku model appears in the list of nearby devices, select it to start a Screen mirroring session.
- Now you can stream media from your Windows computer or laptop to your TV.
