Step 1: Verify the Roku’s AirPlay support
On Roku, open Settings → System → About and note its model and software version. Check both against Roku’s AirPlay compatibility information. Similar product names can cover different hardware generations; an older Roku does not necessarily support the feature.
If the model is incompatible, changing the iPhone’s browser or the Roku’s Android screen-mirroring mode will not add AirPlay. A television containing a Roku interface and a separate HDMI streaming player may also have different receiving capabilities. Check the device you actually intend to select.
Step 2: Turn AirPlay on and check the network
Open Settings → Apple AirPlay and HomeKit on Roku and set AirPlay to On. HomeKit home automation is separate from playing a file; you do not need to build a HomeKit scene for this workflow.
Connect both devices to the same reachable home network. Roku shows its connection at Settings → Network → About. Guest Wi-Fi, client isolation or a VPN blocking local traffic can interfere. Different 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands can work when they belong to a network that allows device communication.
Step 3: Open the local file and choose Roku
- Open Cast to Your TV in Safari on the iPhone and select your file.
- Wait for automatic preparation, then tap Screen mirroring.
- Open Control Centre → Screen Mirroring and select the Roku. Enter any on-screen code on the phone.
- Return to Safari and press Play on this iPhone.
The phone renders the file and the system mirrors its display. Keep Safari visible and the iPhone unlocked. The website cannot identify the selected Roku or verify its connection. Video seeking, text subtitles and PDF page changes stay in the local player. Read the iPhone player guide for browser and preparation requirements.
Which Roku casting feature should you use?
| Connection | iPhone local-file route | Output and hardware |
|---|---|---|
| AirPlay Screen Mirroring | Supported when Roku’s model and software include AirPlay | Mirrored quality and audio delay vary; no additional receiver needed |
| Roku Android screen mirroring | Not iPhone’s AirPlay connection | Separate source-device support required |
| An app’s Cast button | May operate only that app’s Roku channel | Does not establish Google Cast support for this website |
Roku’s advertised maximum display resolution is not a guarantee for mirrored Safari output. Use the compatibility checker to compare protocols rather than relying on the Cast icon’s appearance.
Troubleshooting and stopping mirroring
- Roku missing: check its model, enabled AirPlay setting and network before restarting devices. The Roku screen-mirroring Allow list is for a different connection.
- Screen visible but film paused: return to Safari and press Play. Try an ordinary short MP4 if one file fails.
- Streaming-service video black: use that service’s supported Roku channel when capture is restricted. This site plays local files and does not bypass DRM.
Stop playback and then choose Control Centre → Screen Mirroring → Stop Mirroring to disconnect. Your file is not uploaded to our servers. Browse device guides for Android and Roku, Samsung or LG.
Ready when you are
Start with your file.
Open the player, choose one file, then use the casting option for your device. Any preparation stays on your device.
Open Cast to Your TV