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AirPlay Only Playing Audio? Here’s How to Fix Video Issues

AirPlay is a fantastic Apple feature that lets you seamlessly stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to a compatible TV or speaker. However, it can be incredibly frustrating when you try to share a video, only to find that the audio is playing perfectly but the screen remains blank. This common issue can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from simple network glitches to incorrect settings or software incompatibilities.

If you’re facing the problem of AirPlay only playing audio without video, don’t worry. This comprehensive guide will walk you through 11 effective troubleshooting methods to diagnose and resolve the issue. We’ll start with the simplest checks and move toward more advanced solutions, helping you get your video streaming correctly in no time.

Check Device Compatibility

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, it’s essential to confirm that your devices are compatible. Ensure that both your sending device (iPhone, iPad) and your receiving device (Apple TV, smart TV) fully support video streaming via AirPlay. An older device might only support AirPlay for audio. Also, verify that both devices are running updated software, as compatibility can change with new releases.
Update Your Devices to the Latest Software

Outdated software is a frequent cause of AirPlay issues. Apple and other manufacturers regularly release updates that include bug fixes and performance improvements. Make sure everything is up-to-date.
- iOS Device: Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Apple TV: Go to Settings > System > Software Updates > Update Software.
- Smart TV: Check the manufacturer’s support website for specific instructions on how to check for and install firmware updates.
Restart All Involved Devices

The classic “turn it off and on again” solution is often highly effective. Restarting can clear temporary glitches and re-establish clean connections between your devices and the network.
- iOS Device: Press and hold the power button until the power-off slider appears, then turn it back on after a few moments.
- Apple TV: Go to Settings > System > Restart, or unplug it from power for 30 seconds.
- Smart TV: Unplug the TV from the power outlet, wait for at least 30 seconds, and then plug it back in.
- Router: It’s also a good idea to restart your Wi-Fi router.
Verify Your Network Connection

For AirPlay to function correctly, both your sending and receiving devices must be connected to the exact same Wi-Fi network. A weak or unstable signal can also cause problems where audio might get through, but the more data-intensive video stream fails.
- Wi-Fi Check: Go to Settings > Wi-Fi on your iOS device and confirm it’s connected to the same network name as your Apple TV or smart TV.
- Signal Strength: Ensure you have a strong network signal on both devices. If the signal is weak, try moving your router or devices closer together.
Adjust AirPlay Settings on the Receiving Device

Sometimes the AirPlay settings on your TV or Apple TV might be misconfigured or disabled. It’s important to check that the receiver is set up to accept incoming AirPlay requests.
- Apple TV: Go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit. Ensure that AirPlay is turned on and review the “Allow Access” settings to make sure your device isn’t being blocked.
- Smart TV: Look for an AirPlay or “Apple AirPlay Settings” menu within your TV’s settings panel. Refer to your TV’s manual to ensure it is properly enabled.
Use Direct AirPlay Instead of Screen Mirroring

There is a difference between mirroring your entire screen and using the direct AirPlay feature within an app. Sometimes, screen mirroring can cause issues. Try initiating the stream directly from the video content.
- Disable Screen Mirroring: If it’s on, open the Control Center on your iOS device, tap the Screen Mirroring icon (two overlapping rectangles), and tap Stop Mirroring.
- Use Direct AirPlay: Open an app like YouTube, Netflix, or Photos. Play a video, then look for the AirPlay icon (a rectangle with an upward-pointing triangle). Tap it and select your TV from the list.

Check In-App Video Playback Settings

Certain applications have their own internal video playback or AirPlay settings. It’s possible that a setting within the app you’re trying to stream from is causing the conflict. Open the app and look for any settings related to casting, playback quality, or external displays.
Temporarily Turn Off Bluetooth

Wireless interference can occasionally disrupt Wi-Fi and AirPlay signals. Since Bluetooth operates on a similar 2.4 GHz frequency, it can sometimes be the culprit. Try temporarily disabling it on your iOS device to see if it resolves the issue.
- Disable Bluetooth: Go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iOS device and toggle it off.
Reset Network Settings on Your iOS Device

If simpler steps haven’t worked, resetting your network settings can resolve deeper connectivity issues. This is a more drastic step as it will erase all your saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, so proceed with caution.
- How to Reset: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. You will need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network afterward.
Try a Wired Ethernet Connection

For the most stable connection possible, try connecting your AirPlay receiver (Apple TV or smart TV) directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. This eliminates any potential Wi-Fi instability and can often solve persistent streaming problems.
Factory Reset Your Devices (Last Resort)

This should be your final troubleshooting step. A factory reset will restore your device to its original settings, which can fix stubborn software issues. Be sure to back up any important data before proceeding.
- iOS Device: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Apple TV: Go to Settings > System > Reset.
- Smart TV: Check your TV’s manual for instructions on how to perform a factory reset.

By systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and fix the reason why AirPlay is only playing audio without video. If the problem continues after trying everything, the issue may be a hardware fault, and it would be best to contact Apple Support or the manufacturer of your smart TV for further assistance.