Miracast on Android and Windows: What it is, how it works, and how to enable it

Have you asked yourself What is Miracast? And what's it for on your Android device or PC? Being able to view the content from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop on your TV or other large device screen is extremely practical for sharing photos, playing videos, enjoying games, browsing the internet, or using social media on a large, comfortable screen. Over time, various technologies and devices have emerged to facilitate this process, and one of the most popular and versatile solutions is Miracast, a technology that remains relevant and useful in many scenarios, both at home and at work.

Miracast: Android's wireless screencasting feature

What exactly is Miracast?

Miracast It is a wireless transmission standard developed and certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance. Its main objective is to allow the screen of one device (such as a phone, tablet, or laptop) to be mirrored on another compatible display (e.g., a TV, projector, monitor, or streaming device), eliminating the need for cables such as traditional HDMI. This is known as screen mirroring or "screen mirroring." Everything you see on your transmitting device is displayed exactly the same on the receiving device, in real time and without any cables.

Miracast uses the technology Wi-Fi Direct, which means it creates a direct connection between the two devices, without the need for both to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, although it is generally recommended to have a stable network to ensure the quality of the transmission. The protocol supports video transmission up to Full HD quality (and more recently, 4K resolutions on compatible devices), 5.1 surround sound and features WPA2-PSK encryption to ensure the security of transmitted data. It also relies on a DRM layer that allows you to stream copyright-protected content, such as Blu-ray or streaming services, without censorship or blocking.

This technology is natively present on many Android devices (especially from version 4.2 onwards) and is also available on systems such as Windows and on televisions and multimedia projection devices that are compatible with the Miracast protocol.

Advantages and main features of Miracast

• Direct wireless transmission between devices wirelessly and without requiring internet access.
• Video quality up to Full HD (1080p) and support for higher resolutions such as 4K on compatible models.
• Multiplatform support: Works between Android phones, Windows computers, TVs, projectors, and other certified receivers.
• Audio 5.1 surround sound for a more complete multimedia experience.
• Advanced Security: WPA2 encryption and support for streaming DRM content.
• Support for presentations, collaborative work and leisure: Ideal for professional meetings, classes, sharing multimedia content, gaming and more.

Differences between Miracast, Chromecast and AirPlay

While Miracast, Chromecast (Google Cast), and AirPlay (Apple) all aim to make it easier to stream content between devices, there are some notable differences between them:

• Miracast It is a protocol standard and open, implemented in many devices from different manufacturers and independent of a specific brand. It allows you to mirror your entire screen and works via Wi-Fi Direct, without the need for internet access.
• chromecast It's a proprietary Google device and protocol that requires a Chromecast to be connected to the TV. It not only allows you to cast your screen, but also to play specific content (such as YouTube or Netflix videos) independently of your phone, which acts as a remote. It usually requires an internet connection and a standard Wi-Fi network.
• AirPlay It's a closed protocol developed by Apple for its own devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac), compatible only with certified receivers (such as Apple TV or some recent televisions). It allows both screen mirroring and sending multimedia content only.
• Widi Intel's was another similar technology aimed at laptops, but it is currently obsolete.

Miracast stands out for its brand and network independence, and allowing full screen mirroring directly between compatible devices.

Miracast compatible devices

• Android phones and tablets from version 4.2 or higher (except for very specific models that have withdrawn support).
• Windows computers from Windows 8.1 onwards, especially laptops with compatible Wi-Fi chips.
• Smart TV from brands such as LG, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, Grundig, Nevir, among many others (see manual or TV settings).
• Streaming devices and dongles Specific: If your TV is not a Smart TV or does not support Miracast, there are inexpensive HDMI dongles/adapters that add this functionality.
• Other multimedia devices such as smart projectors and some consoles (e.g. Xbox with the Wireless Display app).

Not all devices, including some Google Pixels or older models, maintain native support, but most newer models do include it by default.

How to know if your TV or device supports Miracast

Most Smart TV on the market already include Miracast support under names like Screen Mirroring, Share screen, Duplicate Pantalla o Wireless Projection in the inputs, settings, or apps menu. If your TV doesn't have this feature, you can easily add it using a Miracast dongle connected to a free HDMI port, transforming any TV into a compatible receiver.

For Windows computers, the option typically appears as "Project" or "Connect" in the Action Center or Display settings. Checking the user manual or the manufacturer's website is the quickest way to confirm this.

How to use Miracast on Android and Windows step by step

Preparations and requirements

• Compatible TV or receiver with Miracast (Smart TV or dongle).
• Mobile, tablet or laptop compatible.
• Typically, both are connected to the same Wi-Fi network for easy detection, although Miracast can work over Wi-Fi Direct without relying on the same home network.

Steps to cast your screen from Android

1. Open the Settings from your Android device.
2. Accede to Connection, Screen o Connected devices (the name may vary depending on the manufacturer).
3. Look for the option To transmit, Wireless projection, Screen mirroring o Screen Mirroring.
4. Activate this feature and wait for your phone to detect your TV or Miracast receiver.
5. Select the device from the list. You may be asked for a Security PIN that will appear on the TV; enter it to confirm the pairing.
6. In a few seconds, your phone's screen will be mirrored on your TV, including audio if supported.

Steps to cast your screen from Windows 10/11

1. Open the Activities Center (notifications icon) or press Windows key + K.
2. Click on Connect o To project.
3. Choose Wireless Screen Mirroring and choose the receiving device (your Smart TV or Miracast dongle).
4. You can choose between duplicating, extending or just using a second screen.
5. Confirm on the TV if requested and in a few seconds the image will be reflected.

Disconnection can be done from either the transmitter (mobile, laptop) or the receiver (TV, dongle) at any time.

What to do if your TV doesn't have Miracast?

• You can purchase a Miracast dongle that connects to the TV's HDMI port and power. Some models allow you to upgrade older TVs and work just like a Chromecast, but using Miracast.
• Connect the dongle, select the corresponding HDMI input, follow the pairing steps, and you'll have access to the wireless screen mirroring feature.

What uses can you give to Miracast?

• Watch videos, movies and photos from your mobile, tablet or laptop to the big screen.
• professional presentations, displaying documents, slides, graphics wirelessly from your laptop.
• Video Games, enjoying mobile titles on TV for an immersive experience and greater control.
• Browsing the internet, social networks or reading documents more comfortably.
• Sharing content in groups in family, educational or work environments.

Please note that unlike Chromecast or AirPlay, the mobile screen must remain on the entire time of the transmission, since Miracast replicates exactly what you see, and if you block the mobile you will stop transmitting.

Some applications, such as AllCast, allow for certain additional features and extended compatibility, such as sending multimedia files without requiring mirroring of the entire screen.

Miracast Limitations and Common Problems

• It only allows duplicate the full screen; you can't just send a video while still using your phone for other things.
• Higher battery consumption on your mobile or laptop, as the screen must be active.
• La connection quality It depends a lot on the hardware of both devices and the WiFi environment; if there is a lot of interference, you may notice delays or cuts in video and audio.
• Some manufacturers have dropped, limited, or modified Miracast support. in recent models, in favor of proprietary alternatives.
• There may be incompatibilities between different brands or firmware versions; updating your system helps improve the experience.
• The use of Active VPNs may interfere with or block Miracast transmission. If you have problems, disable it or check your network settings.
• Reinstalling wireless network drivers on your PC can resolve occasional conflicts.

Alternatives to Miracast for screen streaming

• chromecast: Google device that allows you to send specific content or mirror your screen from your mobile phone or Chrome browser.
• AirDroid Cast Web: application that allows you to mirror your Android phone screen on any web browser (ideal for TVs without Miracast but with a browser).
• AllCast: app to send photos, videos and music from your mobile to TV, consoles or streaming devices.
• LetsView: Multi-platform solution for mirroring screens between mobile phones, computers, and TVs, with advanced options.
• DLNA: standard for sending multimedia files within the same network (no duplication).

Popular Smart TV Models with Miracast

• Grundig 55 GFU 7800B: Supports Miracast and Ultra HD 4K resolution, ideal for viewing content in large format and quality.
• LG 32LQ63006LA: It incorporates Miracast, a powerful image processor and 5.1 surround sound, perfect for bedrooms or kitchens.
• Nevir NVR-8073-32RD2S-SMA-N: with Miracast, Android 11 and multiple connection options (USB, HDMI).

Download AllCast and other recommended apps

If you prefer to manage streaming media more flexibly or want to use your smartphone as a remote control even with the screen off, you can download the app AllCast from Google Play:

Also, consider trying AirDroid Cast o Lets View based on your specific duplication needs between different types of devices and operating systems.

Frequently asked questions and helpful tips

• Can you use Miracast without internet? Yes, Miracast works via Wi-Fi Direct, so it doesn't require internet access, just a direct connection between devices.
• Why doesn't my TV appear on my phone when I search for Miracast devices? Make sure both devices are turned on, within the appropriate distance, free of Wi-Fi interference, that the TV is in the correct mode, and that no VPNs are active.
• Can I stream just one app and still use my phone? No, Miracast displays the entire screen. To send only multimedia content, you can use apps like AllCast or solutions like Chromecast.
• Does Miracast work with iPhone? It's not supported on iOS; Apple prioritizes its own AirPlay standard.
• Can there be delay or lag? Yes, there may be some latency on congested Wi-Fi connections or with older hardware. Improving the signal or upgrading devices can help reduce this.

Mirroring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop screen to your TV has become an essential feature in homes, offices, and classrooms. Miracast It remains a versatile solution that stands out for its ease of use, cross-brand compatibility, and lack of cables. While there are alternatives with their own unique features, Miracast is ideal for those who value simplicity and independence from the internet or closed ecosystems. Try the feature on your devices and discover new ways to enjoy your content on the big screen. If you have any experiences, questions, or recommendations about Miracast or alternatives, please share them in the comments.