How to Fix AirPlay Not Working on Hisense TV? 9 Expert Fixes

Are you frustrated with AirPlay not working on your Hisense TV? You’re not alone. Many users encounter this issue, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through 9 expert fixes to get your AirPlay connection up and running smoothly. From basic troubleshooting to advanced solutions, we’ll help you resolve the problem and enjoy seamless streaming on your Hisense TV.

Understanding AirPlay and Hisense TV Compatibility

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s first understand what AirPlay is and how it works with Hisense TVs. This knowledge will help you better diagnose and resolve any issues you may encounter.

What is AirPlay?

AirPlay is a proprietary wireless streaming technology developed by Apple. It allows users to stream audio, video, photos, and even mirror their device’s screen to compatible receivers, such as smart TVs, speakers, and streaming devices.

With AirPlay, you can easily share content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to your Hisense TV without the need for cables or additional hardware. This seamless integration makes it a popular choice for Apple users looking to enjoy their content on a larger screen.

Hisense TV models that support AirPlay

Not all Hisense TV models support AirPlay out of the box. The feature is typically available on newer models released from 2019 onwards. Here’s a list of Hisense TV series that generally support AirPlay:

• ULED Series (U6G, U7G, U8G, U9G)
• Quantum Series (Q8G, Q9G)
• Laser TV Series
• Roku TV Series (select models)
• Android TV Series (select models)

It’s important to note that the availability of AirPlay may vary depending on your region and the specific model year. Always check your TV’s user manual or Hisense’s official website to confirm AirPlay support for your particular model.

Requirements for using AirPlay on Hisense TVs

To use AirPlay on your Hisense TV, you need to ensure that both your TV and your Apple device meet certain requirements. Let’s take a closer look at these prerequisites:

Minimum software versions

For your Hisense TV to support AirPlay, it needs to be running the latest firmware version that includes AirPlay functionality. Hisense regularly releases updates to improve compatibility and fix bugs, so it’s crucial to keep your TV’s software up to date.

On the Apple device side, you’ll need:

• iOS 12.3 or later for iPhone and iPad
• macOS Mojave 10.14.5 or later for Mac computers
• iTunes 12.8 or later for Windows PCs

These minimum software versions ensure that your devices have the necessary AirPlay 2 functionality to communicate with your Hisense TV.

Network requirements

AirPlay relies on your home network to function properly. Both your Hisense TV and your Apple device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for AirPlay to work. Here are some network-related requirements:

• Wi-Fi Network: 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi network (802.11ac recommended for best performance)
• Internet Connection: While not strictly necessary for local streaming, an internet connection is required for initial setup and certain AirPlay features
• Network Security: WPA2 Personal (AES) is recommended for optimal security and performance

Ensuring that your network meets these requirements will help prevent many common AirPlay connection issues.

Common reasons for AirPlay connection issues

Before we delve into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand the most common reasons why AirPlay might not be working on your Hisense TV. These include:

1. Outdated software: Either your Hisense TV or your Apple device may be running an outdated version of software that’s incompatible with the latest AirPlay features.
2. Network problems: Weak Wi-Fi signal, network congestion, or incorrect network settings can all interfere with AirPlay connectivity.
3. Incorrect settings: AirPlay may be disabled on either your TV or your Apple device, preventing the connection.
4. Compatibility issues: Some apps or content may not be compatible with AirPlay, leading to playback problems.
5. Hardware limitations: Older Hisense TV models or Apple devices may lack the necessary hardware to support AirPlay or its latest features.

By identifying these common issues, you’ll be better equipped to troubleshoot and resolve AirPlay problems on your Hisense TV. In the following sections, we’ll explore various solutions to address these and other potential causes of AirPlay malfunctions.

Preparing Your Devices for AirPlay

Before attempting to use AirPlay, it’s crucial to ensure that both your Hisense TV and your Apple device are properly set up and ready for the connection. Let’s go through the essential preparation steps to maximize your chances of a successful AirPlay experience.

Updating your Hisense TV’s firmware

Keeping your Hisense TV’s firmware up to date is vital for maintaining compatibility with the latest AirPlay features and resolving any known issues. Here’s how to check for and install updates on your Hisense TV:

1. Press the Home button on your Hisense TV remote.
2. Navigate to Settings > System > About.
3. Select System Update or Check for Updates.
4. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

Remember to keep your TV connected to the internet during the update process. The update may take several minutes, and your TV will restart once it’s complete.

Checking iOS device compatibility

Ensure that your iPhone, iPad, or Mac meets the minimum requirements for AirPlay compatibility. To check your iOS version:

1. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > About.
2. Look for the Software Version entry.

For Mac computers:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
2. Select About This Mac.
3. Check the macOS version listed.

If your device is running an older version, consider updating to the latest compatible iOS or macOS to ensure full AirPlay functionality.

Ensuring both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network

AirPlay requires both your Hisense TV and your Apple device to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Here’s how to verify the connection:

On your Hisense TV:

1. Press the Home button on your remote.
2. Navigate to Settings > Network > Network Status.
3. Note the name of the connected Wi-Fi network.

On your iOS device:

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Check that you’re connected to the same network as your TV.

If the networks don’t match, connect your devices to the same Wi-Fi network before attempting to use AirPlay.

Verifying AirPlay settings on your Hisense TV

Make sure that AirPlay is enabled on your Hisense TV:

1. Press the Home button on your remote.
2. Navigate to Settings > System > AirPlay & HomeKit.
3. Ensure that AirPlay is set to On.
4. If you don’t see the AirPlay option, your TV model may not support it, or you may need to update your TV’s firmware.

Enabling AirPlay on your iOS device

While AirPlay is generally enabled by default on iOS devices, it’s worth checking to ensure it’s active:

1. On your iPhone or iPad, swipe down from the top-right corner to open the Control Center.
2. Look for the Screen Mirroring button.
3. If you don’t see it, you may need to add it:
   • Go to Settings > Control Center.
   • Scroll down to More Controls and tap the + next to Screen Mirroring.

By carefully preparing your devices as outlined above, you’ll create the optimal conditions for a successful AirPlay connection between your Apple device and your Hisense TV. If you still encounter issues after these preparations, don’t worry – we’ll explore more advanced troubleshooting steps in the following sections.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

If you’ve prepared your devices as described in the previous section and are still experiencing issues with AirPlay on your Hisense TV, it’s time to try some basic troubleshooting steps. These simple solutions can often resolve common AirPlay problems quickly and easily.

Restarting your Hisense TV and iOS device

A simple restart can often clear up temporary glitches that may be preventing AirPlay from working properly. Let’s start by restarting both your Hisense TV and your iOS device:

For your Hisense TV:

1. Unplug the TV from the power outlet.
2. Wait for about 30 seconds.
3. Plug the TV back in and turn it on.

For your iOS device:

1. For iPhones with Face ID: Press and hold the side button and either volume button until the power off slider appears.
2. For iPhones with Home button: Press and hold the side (or top) button until the power off slider appears.
3. Drag the slider to turn off your device.
4. After the device turns off, press and hold the side (or top) button again until you see the Apple logo.

After both devices have restarted, try connecting via AirPlay again.

Checking Wi-Fi connection strength

A weak Wi-Fi signal can cause interruptions in your AirPlay connection. Check the signal strength on both your TV and iOS device:

On your Hisense TV:

1. Press the Home button on your remote.
2. Go to Settings > Network > Network Status.
3. Look for the Wi-Fi signal strength indicator.

On your iOS device:

1. Look at the Wi-Fi icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
2. More bars indicate a stronger connection.

If the signal is weak on either device, try moving them closer to your Wi-Fi router or consider using a Wi-Fi extender to improve coverage in your home.

Disabling VPN or proxy settings

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and proxy servers can sometimes interfere with AirPlay connections. Try disabling these services temporarily:

On your iOS device:

1. Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
2. If a VPN is active, tap the i icon next to it and turn it off.

For proxy settings:

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the i icon next to your connected network.
3. Scroll down to HTTP Proxy and ensure it’s set to Off.

After disabling these settings, attempt to use AirPlay again.

Verifying AirPlay is enabled on both devices

Double-check that AirPlay is enabled on both your Hisense TV and your iOS device:

On your Hisense TV:

1. Press the Home button on your remote.
2. Navigate to Settings > System > AirPlay & HomeKit.
3. Ensure AirPlay is set to On.

On your iOS device:

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open the Control Center.
2. Tap Screen Mirroring.
3. Your Hisense TV should appear in the list of available devices.

If you don’t see your TV listed, ensure that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and try the next troubleshooting step.

Forgetting and re-adding Wi-Fi network

Sometimes, Wi-Fi connection issues can be resolved by forgetting the network and reconnecting. Try this on both your Hisense TV and iOS device:

On your Hisense TV:

1. Go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi.
2. Select your current network and choose Forget Network.
3. Reconnect to the network by entering the password.

On your iOS device:

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the i icon next to your current network.
3. Select Forget This Network.
4. Reconnect to the network by entering the password.

After reconnecting both devices to the Wi-Fi network, try using AirPlay again.

These basic troubleshooting steps often resolve common AirPlay issues. If you’re still experiencing problems after trying these solutions, don’t worry – we’ll explore more advanced troubleshooting techniques in the next section.

Advanced AirPlay Connection Solutions

If the basic troubleshooting steps didn’t resolve your AirPlay issues, it’s time to try some more advanced solutions. These methods dive deeper into network settings and device configurations to address persistent AirPlay problems.

Resetting network settings on your iOS device

Resetting network settings can often resolve connectivity issues that prevent AirPlay from working properly. Here’s how to do it:

1. On your iOS device, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings.
3. Enter your passcode if prompted.
4. Confirm by tapping Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will reset all network settings, including saved Wi-Fi passwords, cellular settings, and VPN configurations. You’ll need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and reconfigure any custom network settings after the reset.

Performing a factory reset on your Hisense TV

If your Hisense TV is experiencing persistent software issues, a factory reset might be necessary. This will erase all settings and return the TV to its original state. Here’s how to perform a factory reset:

1. Press the Home button on your Hisense TV remote.
2. Navigate to Settings > System > Advanced System Settings.
3. Select Factory Reset or Reset to Factory Default.
4. Enter your PIN if prompted (default is usually 0000).
5. Confirm the reset when prompted.

Warning: This will erase all your personal settings, installed apps, and account information. Make sure to note down any important settings before proceeding.

After the reset, set up your TV again and try connecting via AirPlay.

Updating router firmware and settings

Outdated router firmware or incorrect settings can sometimes interfere with AirPlay functionality. Here’s what you can do:

1. Access your router’s admin panel (usually by typing 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 in your web browser).
2. Log in with your router’s username and password.
3. Look for a Firmware Update or Software Update option and install any available updates.
4. Check your router’s settings:
   • Ensure UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) is enabled.
   • Verify that Multicast is enabled.
   • If your router has a Media or DLNA setting, make sure it’s turned on.

Consult your router’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on accessing and configuring these settings.

Addressing potential interference from other devices

Other devices on your network can sometimes interfere with AirPlay connections. Try these steps to minimize interference:

1. Turn off other devices that might be using a lot of bandwidth (e.g., game consoles, streaming devices).
2. Move your Hisense TV and iOS device away from potential sources of interference like microwave ovens or cordless phones.
3. If possible, try using the 5GHz band on your Wi-Fi network instead of the more crowded 2.4GHz band.

Using Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi

If Wi-Fi issues persist, consider using a wired Ethernet connection for your Hisense TV:

1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the Ethernet port on your Hisense TV.
2. On your TV, go to Settings > Network > Network Configuration.
3. Select Wired Network and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the connection.

Using a wired connection can provide a more stable and faster connection, potentially resolving AirPlay issues caused by Wi-Fi instability.

Specific AirPlay Issues and Fixes

Even after trying the advanced solutions, you might encounter specific AirPlay issues. Let’s address some common problems and their targeted fixes.

AirPlay icon missing on iOS device

If you can’t find the AirPlay icon on your iOS device:

1. Ensure your iOS device is updated to the latest version.
2. Check if AirPlay is restricted:
   • Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps.
   • Make sure AirPlay & HomeKit is turned on.
3. If the issue persists, try resetting your iOS device’s settings:
   • Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.

Hisense TV not appearing in AirPlay device list

If your Hisense TV doesn’t show up in the list of available AirPlay devices:

1. Verify that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Restart your Hisense TV and iOS device.
3. On your Hisense TV, go to Settings > System > AirPlay & HomeKit and toggle AirPlay off and on again.
4. Check if your TV’s firmware is up to date.

Audio playing but no video display

If you can hear audio but can’t see the video when using AirPlay:

1. Check your TV’s HDMI connection if you’re using an external AirPlay receiver.
2. Ensure your TV is set to the correct input source.
3. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the AirPlay connection.
4. Update your iOS device and Hisense TV to the latest software versions.

Video lagging or stuttering during playback

For video playback issues:

1. Reduce network congestion by disconnecting other devices from your Wi-Fi.
2. Move your router closer to your TV or use a Wi-Fi extender to improve signal strength.
3. Lower the video quality in the app you’re streaming from, if possible.
4. Try using a wired Ethernet connection for your Hisense TV.

AirPlay disconnecting randomly

If your AirPlay connection keeps dropping:

1. Check for interference from other electronic devices and move them away from your TV and iOS device.
2. Disable power-saving features on your Hisense TV that might be interrupting the connection.
3. Update your router’s firmware and adjust its settings as mentioned earlier.
4. Consider resetting your network settings on both your iOS device and Hisense TV.

Optimizing AirPlay Performance on Hisense TV

Once you’ve successfully connected AirPlay to your Hisense TV, you may want to optimize its performance for the best possible experience.

Adjusting video quality settings

To balance quality and performance:

1. On your iOS device, go to Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff.
2. Tap AirPlay Resolution and choose between Auto, 1080p, or 720p based on your network speed and preference.

Managing bandwidth usage on your network

To ensure smooth AirPlay streaming:

1. Limit the number of devices connected to your Wi-Fi network.
2. Use Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to prioritize AirPlay traffic.
3. Consider upgrading your internet plan if you frequently experience bandwidth issues.

Using AirPlay 2 for multi-room audio

If your Hisense TV supports AirPlay 2:

1. Ensure all AirPlay 2-compatible devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
2. From your iOS device’s Control Center, tap and hold the audio card.
3. Tap the AirPlay icon and select multiple devices to play audio simultaneously.

Enhancing Wi-Fi signal strength for better streaming

To improve your Wi-Fi signal:

1. Position your router in a central location, away from walls and obstructions.
2. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to identify the least congested channel for your router.
3. Consider upgrading to a mesh Wi-Fi system for better coverage throughout your home.

Troubleshooting specific app compatibility issues

If you’re having issues with a particular app:

1. Check if the app is compatible with AirPlay (some apps may restrict AirPlay functionality).
2. Update the app to the latest version.
3. Clear the app’s cache or reinstall it if problems persist.

Alternative Screen Mirroring Options for Hisense TV

If you’re still experiencing issues with AirPlay or your Hisense TV doesn’t support it, there are alternative screen mirroring options available.

Using HDMI connection

The most reliable method for screen mirroring is using a wired HDMI connection:

1. Connect your iOS device to your Hisense TV using an HDMI cable and the appropriate adapter (Lightning to HDMI or USB-C to HDMI).
2. Switch your TV to the correct HDMI input.
3. Your iOS device’s screen should automatically appear on the TV.

Exploring third-party casting apps

Several third-party apps offer screen mirroring capabilities:

1. Miracast: Available on many Android devices and Windows PCs.
2. AllCast: Supports casting from iOS and Android to various smart TV platforms.
3. AirServer: Turns your Hisense TV into an AirPlay receiver (requires a compatible smart TV platform).

Utilizing built-in casting features on Hisense TV

Many Hisense TVs come with built-in casting features:

1. Chromecast built-in: Available on some Hisense Android TVs.
2. Screen Share: A generic screen mirroring feature found on many Hisense models.

Check your TV’s settings menu for these options and follow the on-screen instructions to set them up.

Comparing AirPlay to other screen mirroring technologies

Each screen mirroring technology has its pros and cons:

• AirPlay: Seamless integration with Apple devices, but limited to Apple ecosystem.
• Chromecast: Wide app support, works across multiple platforms, but requires compatible apps.
• Miracast: Platform-agnostic, but can be less reliable than other options.
• HDMI: Most reliable and highest quality, but requires physical connection.

Choose the option that best fits your devices and usage scenario.

When to consider upgrading your TV or devices

If you frequently use screen mirroring and your current setup isn’t meeting your needs, consider upgrading:

1. Look for a newer Hisense TV model with built-in AirPlay 2 support.
2. Upgrade your iOS device to a newer model that supports the latest AirPlay features.
3. Consider adding an external streaming device (e.g., Apple TV, Roku) that supports AirPlay if your TV lacks native support.

Contacting Support and Additional Resources

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, it may be time to seek professional assistance.

Hisense customer support options

Hisense offers several support channels:

1. Official website: Visit Hisense Support for FAQs, manuals, and troubleshooting guides.
2. Phone support: Call 1-888-935-8880 for direct assistance (hours may vary).
3. Email support: Available through the support website.
4. Live chat: Available on the Hisense website during business hours.

Apple support for AirPlay issues

For AirPlay-specific problems, Apple provides support:

1. Visit Apple Support for AirPlay troubleshooting guides.
2. Use the Apple Support app on your iOS device for personalized assistance.
3. Contact Apple Support directly through phone, chat, or email.

Online forums and community resources

Tap into the knowledge of other users:

1. Hisense Community Forum: Connect with other Hisense TV owners.
2. Reddit: Check subreddits like r/Hisense or r/appletv for user discussions.
3. AVS Forum: A popular platform for home theater enthusiasts with a wealth of knowledge.

Warranty and repair considerations

If you suspect a hardware issue:

1. Check your Hisense TV’s warranty status on the official website.
2. Contact Hisense support to initiate a repair if your TV is under warranty.
3. For out-of-warranty repairs, weigh the cost of repair against purchasing a new TV.

Staying updated on AirPlay and Hisense TV compatibility

To stay informed about the latest developments:

1. Follow Hisense’s official social media accounts for product updates.
2. Subscribe to tech news websites that cover smart TV and streaming technologies.
3. Regularly check for software updates on both your Hisense TV and iOS devices.

Preventing Future AirPlay Connection Problems

Taking proactive steps can help prevent AirPlay issues from recurring in the future.

Regular software and firmware updates

Stay on top of updates:

1. Enable automatic updates on your Hisense TV if available.
2. Regularly check for manual updates in your TV’s settings menu.
3. Keep your iOS devices updated to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS.

Maintaining optimal network conditions

Ensure a stable network environment:

1. Regularly restart your router (at least once a month).
2. Keep your router’s firmware updated.
3. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer to optimize your network’s channel and band settings.

Proper TV and device maintenance

Take care of your devices:

1. Clean your TV’s vents to prevent overheating.
2. Avoid exposing your devices to extreme temperatures or humidity.
3. Use surge protectors to safeguard against power fluctuations.

Understanding AirPlay limitations and best practices

Be aware of AirPlay’s capabilities:

1. Understand that some content may not be AirPlay-compatible due to copyright restrictions.
2. Know that AirPlay performance can be affected by network congestion and distance from the router.
3. Remember that older devices may not support the latest AirPlay features.

Planning for future smart home integration

Consider the bigger picture:

1. Research smart home ecosystems that work well with both Hisense TVs and Apple devices.
2. Consider investing in devices that support both AirPlay and other popular casting technologies for maximum flexibility.
3. Stay informed about upcoming smart TV technologies and standards to make informed upgrade decisions.

Conclusion

AirPlay issues on Hisense TVs can be frustrating, but with the comprehensive troubleshooting steps and solutions provided in this guide, you should be able to resolve most problems. Remember to start with the basics, like checking your network connection and ensuring your devices are compatible and up-to-date. If simple solutions don’t work, don’t hesitate to try more advanced techniques or seek professional help.

By following the preventive measures outlined, you can minimize future AirPlay connection problems and enjoy seamless streaming and screen mirroring on your Hisense TV. Stay patient, methodical, and don’t be afraid to explore alternative options if AirPlay continues to give you trouble. With the right approach, you’ll be back to enjoying your favorite content on the big screen in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions