What is ‘AirPlay to Mac’ and How to AirPlay from iPhone to Mac

Now that macOS Monterey is available, you can AirPlay to Mac. Now that AirPlay 2 has been expanded, it is feasible to mirror an iPhone to a Mac. You can even connect another macOS device to your Mac via screen sharing. What is AirPlay 2, though, and how does it operate? And perhaps more significantly, can you use this brand-new macOS 12 function on your device? We have addressed all of the concerns in this comprehensive guide, as well as how to easily AirPlay from an iPhone to a Mac.

How to Set Up and Use AirPlay to Mac in macOS 12 Monterey

Apple AirPlay, for those who are unfamiliar, is a wireless streaming technology that enables Apple devices to transmit audio and music, videos, podcasts, and images to other enabled devices. Macs could only AirPlay to other devices like Apple TV or HomePod and HomePod mini before the release of macOS Monterey. Macs can now function as AirPlay receivers thanks to the addition of AirPlay to Mac in macOS 12. As a result, you can AirPlay multimedia from an iOS device to a Mac.

Additionally, your Mac has the ability to transform into a speaker to enhance your multiroom audio experience. Additionally, you can use another Mac to serve as your Mac’s external display if necessary. That is what has made the AirPlay to Mac function in the most recent version of macOS a nice addition.

AirPlay to Mac Compatibility

Sadly, not all Macs that are compatible with macOS Monterey support the AirPlay to Mac capability. The narrative is the same on both iPhone and iPad. So, before continuing, take careful to check the compatibility.

The list of Mac models that support AirPlay to Mac is provided below:

  • MacBook Air 2018 and later
  • MacBook Pro 2018 and later
  • iMac 2019 and later
  • Mac Pro 2019
  • Mac Mini 2020 and later
  • iMac Pro 2017 and later

The list of iPad and iPhone models that support AirPlay on a Mac is as follows:

  • iPhone 7 and later
  • iPad Pro 2 and later
  • iPad Air 3 and later
  • iPad mini 5 and later
  • iPad 6 and later

Customize AirPlay Receiver Settings in macOS Monterey

To stop someone from AirPlaying content to your Mac without your consent, you can adjust the AirPlay Receiver settings in macOS 12 Monterey according to your needs. You can, for instance, allow only the devices that are synced with the same Apple ID to stream material or let everyone in the vicinity to beam content without any restrictions.

1. Open System Preferences on your Mac to begin.

2. Click Sharing now.

3. Next, make sure the box next to the AirPlay Receiver is checked. There are three options available in the Allow AirPlay for section:

  • Current User: Choose it to allow only the device signed in with the same Apple ID as the Mac to AirPlay content. It s selected by default.
  • Anyone on the same network: Select it to let anyone on the same Wi-Fi network to AirPlay content to the Mac.
  • Everyone: It allows you to let everyone AirPlay content to your Mac without any roadblock.

Please be aware that you can also make the password entry process mandatory for everyone. Set it up by selecting the checkbox to the left of “Require password” and completing the process.

How to AirPlay from iPhone to Mac

You can broadcast audio and video content from your iPhone or iPad to a macOS device after configuring the AirPlay receiver settings on your Mac. You may easily send music, stream video, or listen to your preferred podcast.

Search for the AirPlay icon and tap it while a compatible app is streaming content. Select your Mac after that, and you are ready to go. It is as simple as it can possibly be. Additionally, you may use the control centre to easily beam material from your iPhone or iPad to a Mac that is compatible. Just open Control Center, click the AirPlay symbol in the top right corner of the music card, and then choose your Mac. To mirror the screen, select your Mac by tapping the Screen Mirroring icon.

Simply tap the Sharing button and then click the AirPlay icon in the share sheet to send a photo from your iOS device to your Mac. then decide on your Mac. Enter the password when asked.

Additionally, you can use other AirPlay 2 compatible devices and your Mac as a speaker for multiroom audio. Once more, converting your Mac into a speaker is a simple process. Simply choose your Mac using the AirPlay option to invite it to the party with other AirPlay 2 devices while streaming content, and then it’s business as usual.

AirPlay Content from Another Mac to Your Mac

You can also configure your Mac to use another Mac as an external monitor, like I mentioned before. It’s important to note that AirPlay to Mac functions with both a cable and wirelessly. Although having the option to go wireless is fantastic, a connected connection is useful when you want to reduce latency. Save this helpful advice for the occasions when latency-free streaming is desired.

You only need to open the Control Center on your Mac and select the Screen Mirroring option to see all the available Macs in order to perform this.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I mirror my iPhone to my Mac?

You can quickly mirror your iPhone to a Mac or stream audio and video by going to the Control Center on your iPhone and selecting Screen Mirroring.

Do all Macs have AirPlay?

No, not all Macs support AirPlay. Make sure to read the article because we have listed the compatible devices there.

Why can t I screen mirror from my iPhone to my MacBook?

If you are unable to screen mirror from your iPhone to your Mac, first make sure that AirPlay is enabled on both devices, then turn on Bluetooth and WiFi.

Use AirPlay to Mac to Stream Content to Your Mac Like a Pro

You’re all set! So that’s how you can utilise the AirPlay to Mac capability to its full potential. You may use this brand-new macOS 12 feature to utilise your Mac as an AirPlay receiver, which enables you to use your Mac as a powerful speaker for multiroom audio, an external display to boost productivity, or to share photos and videos for a better viewing experience.

Having said that, what are your thoughts on AirPlay for Mac and the most popular features like Shortcuts and Safari tab groups? In the comments section below, feel free to express your opinions and ask any questions you may have about the AirPlay to Mac feature.