Stream movies and more from your Apple device to Roku with AirPlay
Stream movies and more from your Apple device to Roku with AirPlay
Easily stream content from your Apple devices with these step-by-step instructions.
Streaming movies, TV shows, photos, and music from your Apple devices to your Roku devices has never been easier. With Apple AirPlay, you can share your favorite content from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to your TV, while HomeKit allows you to control your Roku with Siri or the Home app. AirPlay is a great tool if you need to stream media from one device to a larger display, and on Roku, the process couldn’t be simpler. This guide walks you through every step to make your Roku a hub for Apple streaming and smart home control.
Check Device Compatibility
Before you begin, make sure your Roku and Apple devices support AirPlay and HomeKit.
Roku Devices:
- Roku Select and Plus Series TVs work regardless of Roku OS version.
- Other models must be running Roku OS 9.4 or higher, including Roku Streaming Stick+, Roku Premiere, Roku Ultra, and select soundbars.
- Some older models require Roku OS 10.0 or higher.
Apple Devices:
- iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 12.3 or later.
- Mac with macOS Mojave 10.14.5 or later.
- To check your Roku software version, go to Settings > System > About.
Update Your Roku Software
If your device is not on the latest software, update it manually:
- Go to Settings > System > System update.
- Select Check now.
- Install any available updates.
Updated software ensures AirPlay and HomeKit work smoothly.
Enable AirPlay on Roku
AirPlay must be turned on in Roku settings:
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
- Navigate to Settings > Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.
- Select AirPlay and turn it On.
- Optional: Set security to require a code the first time a device connects.
Enable HomeKit on Roku
HomeKit lets you control your Roku with Siri or the Home app. Set it up like this:
- Press the Home button.
- Navigate to Settings > Apple AirPlay and HomeKit > HomeKit.
- Select Set up.
- Use your iPhone or iPad camera to scan the eight-digit HomeKit code on your TV screen.
- Follow the prompts on your Apple device to complete the setup.
You can now include your Roku in HomeKit scenes to control multiple devices at once.
Keep your Roku connected
If you have a Roku TV or Roku Streambar, enable Fast TV Start or Fast Start so your device stays connected to Wi-Fi when powered off:
- Press the Home button.
- Go to Settings > System> Power.
- Select Fast TV Start or Fast Start and check Enable.
This feature uses more standby power but keeps your Roku ready for instant streaming.
Stream videos, music, and photos
Once AirPlay is enabled and devices are on the same Wi-Fi network:
- Open the content you want to stream on your Apple device.
- Tap the AirPlay icon in video or music apps. In some apps, tap Share first.
- Select your Roku from the AirPlay menu.
- Use your Apple device or Roku remote to pause, fast forward, or rewind.
- Press the Home button on the Roku remote to stop streaming.
You can enjoy movies, family videos, music playlists, or vacation photos directly on your TV.
Mirror your Apple device screen
Screen mirroring shows exactly what is on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac:
- On iPhone or iPad: Swipe down from the upper-right corner to open Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring, then select your Roku.
- On Mac: Click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar, select your Roku, and choose Mirror Display.
Mirroring works for apps without native AirPlay support, presentations, or games.
HomeKit controls for Roku
With HomeKit, you can manage these functions:
| Device | Power | Volume/Mute | Input Switching | Remote Control Commands |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roku TV | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Roku Streambar or Soundbar | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Roku Players | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Note: Some features require HDMI-CEC support on your TV. Input switching works in the Home app but not directly via Siri.
Troubleshooting AirPlay and HomeKit
If your Roku does not appear in the AirPlay menu or HomeKit controls do not work:
- Ensure both devices support AirPlay 2.
- Verify both are on the same Wi-Fi network (Settings> Network > About).
- Make sure AirPlay is turned on.
- For HomeKit, enable HDMI-CEC on your TV and 1-touch play on Roku (Settings > System > Control Other Devices > 1-touch play).
Following these steps fixes most connection issues.
Enjoy AirPlay and HomeKit on Roku
Now that everything is set up, you can watch Apple TV shows, stream music, mirror devices, and control your Roku with Siri or the Home app. AirPlay and HomeKit transform your Roku into a versatile entertainment and smart home hub.
Quick step-by-step summary
- Check Roku and Apple device compatibility.
- Update Roku to the latest software.
- Enable AirPlay and HomeKit on Roku.
- Keep your device connected with Fast TV Start or Fast Start.
- Stream videos, music, and photos via AirPlay.
- Mirror your Apple device screen.
- Use HomeKit to control power, volume, input, and remote commands.
- Troubleshoot connectivity with network checks, HDMI-CEC, and 1-touch play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Roku devices support AirPlay and HomeKit?
Roku Select and Plus Series TVs, Streaming Stick+, Premiere, Ultra, and certain soundbars. Some older devices need newer Roku OS versions.
Which Apple devices are compatible?
iPhones, iPads, and iPod touch with iOS 12.3 or later and Macs with macOS Mojave 10.14.5 or later.
How do I mirror my Apple device to Roku?
Use Screen Mirroring on iPhone/iPad via Control Center or AirPlay on a Mac via the menu bar.
Why is my Roku not showing in AirPlay?
Check device compatibility, Wi-Fi network, and that AirPlay is turned on.
Can I control Roku with Siri?
Yes, if your Roku supports HomeKit and HDMI-CEC is enabled, you can control power, volume, input, and remote commands.
