AirPlay is a wireless streaming technology developed by Apple that allows you to stream audio, video, and other media from one Apple device to another. It lets you share content from your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices to compatible receivers, such as an Apple TV, smart TVs, speakers, or other AirPlay-enabled devices. However, there have been reports on Apple forums about AirPlay not working on Mac. Hence, we have compiled all the best troubleshooting methods to fix AirPlay not responding on Mac. Without further ado, let us begin.
Why Does The ‘AirPlay Not Working On Mac’ Issue Occur?
Here are some of the most common reasons for AirPlay not responding on Mac –
- The device doesn’t support AirPlay streaming.
- A poor or unstable network connection.
- Mac and the AirPlay device are not on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Software issues on either or both devices.
- Interference from third-party software.
- Incorrect AirPlay settings on your Mac or receiver.
Expert Recommended Methods On How To Fix AirPlay Not Responding On Mac
Method 1 – AirPlay Devices Need to Be Within Range to Function Properly
Apple doesn’t specify the exact distance required for an AirPlay source device to connect to a receiver. But proximity can impact performance, especially if you’re experiencing issues like streaming interruptions or dropouts.
To troubleshoot, try sitting closer to your AirPlay device and attempt to reconnect. If the issue persists, explore other solutions listed below. For example, if you’re using an Apple TV or HomePod as a wireless AirPlay speaker, keep in mind that moving around the house with your iPhone in your pocket could cause the connection to drop.
Method 2 – Ensure You Have Connected To The Correct Receiver
All Apple TVs have a default “Apple TV” label. It is almost impossible to differentiate between multiple Apple TVs in the same area. To connect to the correct TV you need to rename your Apple TV. If you are using a Mac, then you need to check the name and change it if required. Here are the steps –
Apple TV – Settings > General > About > Name.
Macbook – System Settings > General > About > Name.
Method 3 – Verify That Both Devices Are On The Same Wi-Fi Network
For AirPlay to work, both the source device and the receiver need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If you’re having trouble with the connection, make sure to double-check the network settings on each device.
For the sender device (iPhone/iPad) settings, follow this step –
On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
For the receiver device settings, follow these instructions –
On a Mac, head to System Settings > Wi-Fi, and on an Apple TV, check under Settings > Network. Don’t forget to confirm that your smart TV or any other receiver (like a Roku) is also connected to the same network, by checking the device’s settings menu.
Method 4 – Modify Your AirPlay Receiver Permissions
To use an AirPlay device as a receiver, you’ll need to ensure that it’s properly configured to allow connections. Make sure the “AirPlay Receiver” option is enabled on your Mac, Apple TV, smart TV, or other AirPlay-compatible device, and that the correct permissions are set. Here is what you need to do –
On a Mac, go to System Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff.
On an Apple TV, navigate to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit.
For other devices like smart TVs, you’ll need to explore the device’s settings menu to enable AirPlay and adjust permissions.
Read Also: What To Do If You Can’t Download Files On Your Mac?
Method 5 – Disconnect VPN On Source And Receiver Devices
VPNs can interfere with AirPlay connections, causing issues when streaming to a TV, Mac, smart TV, or other receivers. To ensure a smooth connection, disable any active VPNs on both the source and receiver devices before attempting to stream. If you’re using a VPN router that encrypts all network traffic, this problem should be less of an issue, as it typically stems from individual device VPN settings.
Method 6 – Turn Wi-Fi Off And On Again
A simple solution for resolving AirPlay issues is to disconnect and reconnect to the Wi-Fi network. You can do this by toggling Wi-Fi off and on again on both your source device and receiver.
Method 7 – Restart Your Devices
If you’re experiencing AirPlay issues, try restarting both the source and receiver devices. To restart an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > Shut Down, then slide to power off (or ask Siri to restart the device). To turn it back on, press and hold the side button. On a Mac, click the Apple logo in the top-left corner and select Restart to reboot your computer.
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Method 8 – Install Available Software Updates
Software updates for iOS, macOS, tvOS, and other firmware can often resolve AirPlay issues. Here are the steps –
On an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, go to (System) Settings > General > Software Update and install any pending updates.
On an Apple TV, you can find updates under Settings > System > Software Updates.
For smart TVs and other receivers, updates are also delivered over the internet. Check your device’s settings menu for the software update option.
Method 9 – Reset Firewall
If you’ve enabled the firewall and blocked all incoming connections, it could prevent AirPlay from working on your Mac. To fix the issue, you can reset the firewall settings:
- Launch System Preferences > Security & Privacy and go to the Firewall tab.
- Click the lock icon and type the admin password to modify settings.
- Click Firewall Options and uncheck the Block all incoming connections box.
- Check the box next to Automatically allow built-in software to receive incoming connections.
This should allow AirPlay to function properly.
Method 10 – Uninstall Unwanted/Unknown Apps
Third-party apps you’ve installed may conflict with AirPlay, especially if they offer similar streaming functions. These apps might include scripts that hinder AirPlay from working properly. Try closing these apps first. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, consider uninstalling them and restarting your Mac to restore AirPlay functionality.
Have You Fixed Airplay Not Working On Mac?
We hope that the above steps have helped resolve the ‘Airplay not responding on Mac’ issues. Do let us know in the comments section which method helped you fix your issue.
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