How To Setup Screen Mirroring On Sony Smart Tv

How To Set Up Screen Mirroring On a Sony Smart TV

Screen mirroring allows users to display the content of a smartphone, tablet, or computer screen directly onto a television. This feature is particularly useful for sharing photos and videos with a larger group, delivering presentations, or enjoying mobile games on a bigger display. Sony Smart TVs offer several methods for screen mirroring, depending on the device and operating system being used.

1. Using Miracast for Mirroring from Android Devices

Miracast is a wireless display standard built into many Android devices and Windows computers. It allows for direct screen mirroring to compatible displays without the need for a separate app or Wi-Fi network connection. To mirror from an Android device using Miracast:

First, ensure the Sony Smart TV supports Miracast. This information can usually be found in the TV's specifications or user manual. Enable screen mirroring on the TV. The setting is typically found in the Network settings or Inputs menu, and might be labeled as "Screen mirroring," "Miracast," or "Wireless display." Next, on the Android device, locate the screen mirroring setting. Different Android manufacturers use different names for this feature. Common names include "Smart View," "Screen mirroring," "Wireless display," or "Cast." Open the screen mirroring settings and search for available devices. Select the Sony Smart TV from the list of available devices.

The TV may display a pairing code for added security. Enter this code on the Android device if prompted. Once connected, the Android device's screen should be mirrored on the television. Note that Miracast performance can be affected by network congestion and distance between devices.

2. Mirroring with Apple AirPlay

For Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs, screen mirroring is achieved using AirPlay. To mirror content via AirPlay, both the Apple device and the Sony Smart TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Ensure AirPlay is enabled on the Sony Smart TV. This setting is usually located within the Network settings menu. On the Apple device, open the Control Center. On an iPhone or iPad without a Home button, swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen. On an iPhone or iPad with a Home button, swipe up from the bottom of the screen. Tap the "Screen Mirroring" icon.

Select the Sony Smart TV from the list of available AirPlay devices. The device's screen will then be mirrored to the TV. To stop mirroring, open the Control Center on the Apple device again, tap "Screen Mirroring," and select "Stop Mirroring."

3. Screen Mirroring from a Windows PC

Windows 10 and 11 offer built-in support for wireless displays, enabling screen mirroring to compatible devices including some Sony Smart TVs. Ensure both the PC and the TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. On the Windows PC, press the Windows key + K. This opens the "Connect" pane which displays nearby wireless displays. Select the Sony Smart TV from the list of available devices.

The TV may display a PIN code. Enter this code on the PC to initiate the connection. The PC's screen will then be mirrored on the television. Users can choose to duplicate their screen, extend their screen, or display only on the second screen (the TV). Disconnecting is as simple as pressing Windows key + K again and selecting "Disconnect" from the connected display.

4. Utilizing Chromecast Built-in

Many Sony Smart TVs come with Chromecast built-in. This technology allows users to cast content from compatible apps on their smartphones, tablets, or computers to the TV. The device and the TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Open a Chromecast-enabled app on the device. Look for the Chromecast icon (a rectangle with a Wi-Fi symbol in the corner). Tap the Chromecast icon and select the Sony Smart TV from the list of available devices. The content will then be streamed to the TV. Note that this is not true screen mirroring but rather casting content from specific apps.

5. Connecting Through Third-Party Apps

Numerous third-party apps are available to facilitate screen mirroring to Sony Smart TVs. These apps often offer additional features and compatibility with a wider range of devices. Research available apps in the respective device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, App Store for iOS) or the relevant software repositories for desktop operating systems.

Carefully review app permissions before installation. Connect both the device and the TV to the same Wi-Fi network. Follow the instructions provided by the specific app to establish a connection between the device and the TV.

6. Troubleshooting Screen Mirroring Issues

If screen mirroring isn't working correctly, several troubleshooting steps can be taken. First, verify that both the device and the Sony Smart TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Try restarting both the sending device and the TV. Check for software updates for the TV, the sending device, and any relevant apps. Consult the TV's user manual or Sony's support website for specific troubleshooting information related to screen mirroring.

Ensure that no physical obstructions are hindering the wireless signal between the devices. Consider moving the devices closer together for a stronger connection. If using Miracast, check that both devices are Miracast-certified.

7. Understanding the Limitations of Screen Mirroring

While screen mirroring is a valuable feature, it's important to be aware of its limitations. Performance can be affected by network congestion, particularly if streaming high-bandwidth content like video. There may be a slight delay between the device's screen and the mirrored image on the TV. The quality of the mirrored image might be impacted by the device's screen resolution and the TV's capabilities. Certain content protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM) may not be mirrorable.