To connect iPhone to Roku TV, you use Apple AirPlay, not Bluetooth. Roku TVs and streaming devices do not support iPhone media streaming over Bluetooth; instead, AirPlay is the official method for wirelessly streaming video, music, or mirroring your iPhone screen to a compatible Roku device.
Can you connect iPhone to Roku TV with Bluetooth?
No, you cannot connect an iPhone to a Roku TV over Bluetooth for media streaming. This is a common misconception. Roku’s official support pages document AirPlay as the way to stream from an iPhone, while Bluetooth pairing on Roku is for connecting phones, tablets, or laptops for device control, not for playing audio or video from an iPhone.
Check your Roku TV or streaming device for AirPlay
Apple AirPlay works on compatible Roku streaming devices and on Roku Select and Plus Series TVs. These TVs support AirPlay and HomeKit regardless of the Roku OS version they are running. If you have a Roku streaming stick, box, or another model, check the device specifications to confirm AirPlay support.
Make sure your iPhone is ready for AirPlay
Your iPhone needs iOS 12.3 or later to use AirPlay with a Roku device. Both the iPhone and the Roku device must be turned on and connected to the same wireless network. Wi-Fi must be enabled on the iPhone; AirPlay does not work over a cellular or Bluetooth-only connection.
Turn on AirPlay on your Roku device
On your Roku remote, press the Home button, then navigate to Settings. Select Apple AirPlay and HomeKit, then set AirPlay to On. No additional setup is required on the Roku side beyond enabling this setting.
Stream or mirror your iPhone to Roku TV with AirPlay
- Open Control Center on your iPhone. On an iPhone with a Home button, swipe up from the bottom edge.
- Tap the Screen Mirroring button (two overlapping rectangles).
- Select your Roku device from the list of available devices.
- If an AirPlay passcode appears on your Roku TV screen, enter it on your iPhone when prompted.
Your iPhone screen will then appear on the Roku TV, or you can open a video or music app and tap the AirPlay icon to stream content directly.
What about Bluetooth on Roku?
Roku’s Bluetooth pairing is designed for connecting a Bluetooth-capable smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the Roku device for control purposes, not for streaming media from an iPhone. The Bluetooth pairing menu path is Settings > Remotes & devices > Bluetooth > Pair a new device. To pair a device for control, go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Smartphones & tablets > Add a new smartphone or tablet on the Roku, and turn on Bluetooth in the phone’s settings. This is the same process used to connect phone Roku remote to TV. You can use your iPhone as a remote control via the Roku mobile app. To disconnect iPhone from Roku TV, go to iPhone Bluetooth settings and select 'Forget This Device'. For screen mirroring from other phones, see the separate article on how to screen mirror Android.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can iPhone connect to Roku TV by Bluetooth?
They document AirPlay for iPhone and Bluetooth pairing for Bluetooth-capable phones, tablets, and laptops for device connectivity, not for media playback. You can connect multiple iPhones to Roku TV via Bluetooth, but some models limit simultaneous connections.
What iPhone version is needed?
An iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 12.3 or later is required for AirPlay 2 support on compatible Roku devices.
Do both devices need the same Wi-Fi?
Yes. AirPlay requires the iPhone and the Roku device to be on the same wireless network. They cannot be on different networks or connected only via Bluetooth.
What if AirPlay isn't working?
Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network, AirPlay is turned on in the Roku’s Settings under Apple AirPlay and HomeKit, and your iPhone is running iOS 12.3 or later. Restarting both devices can also resolve temporary connectivity issues. If iPhone doesn't detect Roku TV during pairing, restart both devices and ensure they are in close proximity.
Related reading: How To Cast Phone To Insignia TV.
