To connect phone to LG TV, you can wirelessly mirror your screen using Screen Share for Android or AirPlay for iPhone, or use a wired HDMI connection as a reliable fallback. Both your phone and LG TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network for wireless methods, and some apps may show a black screen due to DRM restrictions.
Before you connect your phone to an LG TV: Prerequisites
For wireless screen sharing or casting, both your phone and LG TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. LG TVs with webOS 4.0 or later (released after 2018) support Apple AirPlay, requiring an iPhone running iOS 12.4 or later. Be aware that some apps restrict screen mirroring or casting due to copyright or DRM protection, which can result in a black screen on the TV.
Connect an Android phone wirelessly with Screen Share
LG TVs support screen sharing (Miracast) to wirelessly mirror an Android phone's screen and audio. To use this method:
- On your Android phone, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Settings panel.
- Tap the "Screen Share" icon, which may also appear as "Cast," "Smart View," "Wireless Projection," "Screen Cast," "Mirror Share," or "Wireless Display" depending on phone brand and OS.
- Select your LG TV from the list of available devices.
- On your TV, accept the connection request by pressing "OK" on the remote.
This method uses Miracast technology and works without needing an external streaming device. Older devices may not support Screen Share or Miracast at all. If you want to know how to screen mirror Android to a different brand of TV, the same Quick Settings approach applies for most Miracast-compatible displays.
Connect an iPhone wirelessly with AirPlay
LG TVs with webOS 4.0 or later (released after 2018) are AirPlay-enabled, allowing iPhones with iOS 12.4 or later to mirror their screen. To enable AirPlay on your LG TV:
- Press the Home button on your remote.
- Select [ThinQ Home Dashboard], then [AirPlay].
- Ensure "AirPlay" is turned on in [AirPlay and HomeKit Settings].
On your iPhone:
- Swipe down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom for older models) to open Control Center.
- Tap the "Screen Mirroring" icon (two overlapping rectangles).
- Select your LG TV from the list. If a 4-digit AirPlay passcode appears on the TV, enter it on your iPhone.
If you need to connect phone Roku remote to TV for a different setup, the Roku remote app requires both devices on the same network and works independently of AirPlay.
Connect any phone with an HDMI cable
For a wired connection, you need a compatible adapter and an HDMI cable. For Android phones, use a USB-C to HDMI adapter. For iPhones, use an Apple Lightning Digital AV Adapter. Some phones may require enabling HDMI output in display or connectivity settings menu. Alternatively, an MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) cable can be used for compatible phones.
- Connect the adapter to your phone.
- Connect an HDMI cable from the adapter to an HDMI port on the LG TV.
- Select the correct HDMI input on the TV's Home Hub.
Some phones may not support HDMI video output through their charging port, and some adapters require external power. Always use certified cables and adapters. If you want to mirror Android to Roku instead, that requires a Roku device and the Roku app, not an HDMI cable.
View photos and videos via USB cable
To share media without full screen mirroring, connect your phone to the TV's USB port. On your phone, you must select "Transfer Photos and Videos (PTP)" when prompted. Then, on the TV's Home menu, select "Photos & Videos" to access your files. This method is best for sharing photos and videos without mirroring your entire screen or dealing with wireless connectivity.
Troubleshooting common connection problems
Phone not finding TV: Check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart both devices and try again.
Black screen during mirroring: This is likely due to DRM restrictions in apps like Netflix or Hulu. The app blocks screen mirroring to protect copyrighted content. Try using the TV's built-in app instead.
Connection dropping: Wireless interference from other devices can cause instability. Move your phone closer to the TV and reduce the number of active Wi-Fi devices nearby.
Adapter not working: Some adapters require external power. Connect the adapter to a power source if it has a power input port. Ensure you are using certified cables and adapters that support video output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the LG ThinQ app to connect my phone?
Yes, the LG ThinQ app allows for screen sharing, content sharing (photos, videos, music), and using your phone as a remote control. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
Does my LG TV support Chromecast?
Some newer LG TVs have Chromecast built-in or support Google Cast, but compatibility varies by model. If your TV does not support it, you can use an external Chromecast device plugged into an HDMI port. For Chromecast setup, the casting icon is three horizontal lines with a Wi-Fi symbol.
Why is my phone screen showing a black box or not mirroring properly?
This is usually caused by DRM protection on streaming apps. The app blocks screen mirroring to prevent unauthorized recording. Use the TV's built-in app or a wired HDMI connection for these services.
Can I connect multiple phones to the same LG TV?
Wireless methods typically support one active connection at a time. For wired connections, only one phone can be connected per HDMI port. You can switch between devices by disconnecting one and connecting another.
Do I need special cables for older LG TV models?
Older LG TVs without HDMI ports may require composite or component video cables with the appropriate adapter for your phone. Check your TV's available inputs and your phone's output capabilities before purchasing cables.
