AirPlay is Apples built-in wireless technology that lets users stream content between compatible devices. However, if it remained open, it would compromise your privacy and may cause other security reasons. That’s why many people are looking for ways to know how to turn off AirPlay on iPhone.
That’s why we’re writing this article, sharing you different ways enabling you to disable AirPlay on different Apple devices. We’ll also share some solutions if you face problems in turning off AirPlay. Keep reading!
Why is AirPlay automatically turning on?
Sometimes the AirPlay turned on automatically even though you have tapped nothing. It might seem confusing at first glance; however, you don’t need to worry. It usually occurs because of Apple’s built-in designs rather than any systematic error. For better understanding, here we are sharing some technical reasons!
- Shared Wi-Fi networks: It’s worth noting that AirPlay usually works by scanning the compatible devices connected to the same wifi network. Apple’s official documentaries have also mentioned that AirPlay uses automatic device discovery technology. This way if your iPhone or iPad is connected to the home, office or school’s network, it would detect the nearby compatible devices and attempt to reconnect.
- Previously paired devices: Similarly, if you have previously connected your device to Apple TV etc. Then AirPlay would remember the pairing and would automatically turn on if finding the same device nearby.
- Default iOS AirPlay settings: It’s worth noting that when iOS gets updated, certain AirPlay settings enabled by default.
Use the best parental control app to protect teens from potential risks on their phones.
When should you turn off AirPlay?
Let’s have a look at some situations where disabling AirPlay makes sense.
- Using public or shared Wi-Fi networks: As discussed earlier, if your device is connected to public Wifi, it is more likely that it may automatically connect to unknown Apple TVs, etc. Cybersecurity experts have advised limiting wireless sharing features on public networks to reduce the risk of accidental screen sharing or data exposure.
- Protecting privacy: Similarly, when you are viewing personal photos, private messages, or confidential work or school material, keeping AirPlay enabled would be too risky.
- Work or school environments: When you are giving presentaions by enabling AirPlay using the school or office network. Because of multiple AirPlay-enabled devices, in classromm your device might connect to the wrong screen without you realizing it.
- Security-sensitive locations: Never turn on AirPlay in places where privacy and security are paramount, like offices, libraries, healthcare settings, etc. Otherwise, the sensitive information, like patient data, confidential business presentations, or research material, could theoretically be projected on nearby displays.
To save battery and improve performance: Along with that, AirPlay constantly scans for nearby devices by consuming your wifi and system resources. This background activity would indeed the drains the device’s battery over time. Some users have also shared on Apple threadsthat suggest turning off AirPlay to improve battery life.
How to turn off AirPlay on your iPhone or iPad? (step-by-step)
Now, if you’re wondering how you can disable the Airlay on your iPhone or iPad to maintain privacy or control over your device. You’re in the right place, whether its iPhone or iPads, the method to turn AirPlay off is the same.
The fastest way to disable AirPlay: Control Center
If you want to end the screen mirroring immediately without any long-term settings, then acessing control centre would be an ideal option. Here is how you can use this to disconnect AirPlay from the TV, speaker, or other devices!
Step 1. For iPhone X & iPad iOS 12, simply swipe down from the top-right corner of your device and the Control Center of your device will open. However, for iPhone 8, iOS 11, and earlier, you‘ll swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the control centre.
Step 2. Now you need to select the Screen Mirroring icon (a rectangle with rectangle at the bottom).
Step 3. Here, you’ll see the list of devices your iPhone or iPad is connected to. You just tap on Stop Mirroring, and that’s all; it will instantly disconnect.
Prevent automatic AirPlay to TVs in Settings
You can also stop your iPhone or iPad from automatically connecting to nearby AirPlay-enabled devices. It’s especially helpful in homes or offices with multiple Apple TVs or shared devices. Here’s how!
Step 1. First of all, simply navigate the ‘Settings’ app on your iPhone or iPad.
Step 2. Now just scroll down and from the menu go for the‘General’ option.
Step 3. Next, you’ll tap on ‘AirPlay & Handoff > Automatically AirPlay’ option.
Step 4. Finally, from the drop-down menu, you’ll change the settings to ‘Never’ to disable the automatic AirPlay. Alternatively, you can select Ask to be prompted to AirPlay upon launching AirPlay-enabled apps.
Turn off AirPlay for photos, videos & music separately
It’s worth noting that the AirPlay behavior varies greatly depending on the app or type of content you are viewing. It means you can control the type of content you want to stream to different devices. For instance, if you want all other content streamed except the photos/videos. Then, while viewing, tap the AirPlay icon and choose your own iPhone/iPad to keep content private and soon.
Stop AirPlay stream unwanted by shutting off Handoff & nearby sharing
Do remember! AirPlay feature indeed works closely via Handoff & Nearby Sharing. However, the problem is that in multi-device households these features can cause unexpected AirPlay connections. This way disabling these features limits automatic connections, giving you more control over AirPlay. To do this, you need to follow the guidelines!
- Turning off handsoff
Step 1. Open Settings > General
Step 2. From there, look for the AirPlay & Handoff and just toggle Handoff off.
- Turning off Nearby sharing
Step 1. Just like above, go to Settings and choose the General option.
Step 2. Now under the General menu, select Airdrop > tap the Receiving Off or Contacts Only.
How to turn off AirPlay on specific devices? (Mac, Apple TV, and more)
Airplay connections aren’t just limited to iPhone or iPad, indeed, it also works with other Apple devices like Macs, Apple TVs, and Apple Watches. Below is the detailed guideline enabling you to trun off the AirPlay separately on each device.
Turn off AirPlay on Mac
Step 1. Simply open your Mac’s System Settings. You’ll find this in the Apple menu at the top-left corner of the screen.
Step 2. Select General option in the left sidebar > Click AirDrop & Handoff.
Step 3. Now, remove the checkmark from “AirPlay Receiver to turn off your Mac’s AirPlay Receiver.
However, if you want some devices to be able to AirPlay to your Mac, leave the checkmark intact. Instead change the “Allow AirPlay for” option to Current user (for devices connected to your Apple ID only) or Anyone on the same network.
Disable AirPlay to Apply TV
Step 1. Open your Apple TV’s Settings. You can do this by selecting the gear icon on your Apple TV’s Home screen.
Step 2. Now, under settings, go for the AirPlay and Apple Home option.
Step 3. After this turn, AirPlay off.
Disconnect AirPlay to Apple Watch
Apple Watches are incredibly versatile wearable partners for your iPhone, letting you accomplish a variety of tasks. If you were playing around with the settings, you’ll notice that on iPhones/iPads, you can mirror your Apple Watch display on your phone or tablet. You can then control your Apple Watch from your iPhone as if it were on your wrist. Let’s see how you can turn off AirPlay via your iPhone’s settings!
Step 1. Launch the‘Settings’ app on your iPhone > Select ‘Accessibility’.
Step 2. Next, scroll down and select ‘Apple Watch Mirroring > Enable the toggle.
Step 3. To end the AirPlay mirroring, select the ‘X’ button. That’s all!
Won’t AirPlay turn off? Quick fixes to get it under control
Sometimes you follow the above-mentioned guidelines to turn off the AirPlay; however, it doesn’t disable. If that’s the case tay calm down. This may happen because of software glitches, background app activity or connectivity conflicts.
That’s why, to fix the problem below, we are sharing some common solutions that might prove effective!
Force Close Active Apps:
It is more likely that some apps might continue sending content via AirPlay even after you disconnect. You have to force stop all via this !
Step 1. First of all, you’ll swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the app switcher.
Step 2. Here, you can find apps that are currently playing music, videos, or mirroring content.
Step 3. Swipe up on each app to force close it.
Toggle Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Off and On:
Keep in mind that the Airlay usually depends on Wiif and Bluetooth to share the media or screen. This way, turning both on and off might reset the connections.
Step 1. Open Control Center. Here toggle Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off, wait a few seconds then toggle them back on.
Step 2. Now check if AirPlay has stopped streaming.
Restart Your Device
In addition, a simple restart of the drive can often clear glitches and help prevent AirPlay from turning off. Let’s see how you can restart your iPhone/iPad!
Step 1. Press and hold the side button & volume button until the power-off slider appears.
Step 2. Next, slide to power off and wait for almost 30 seconds, then turn your device back on.
Update iOS to the Latest Version:
It’s important to know that Apple frequently releases updates to fix bugs. That’s why make sure you’re using the latest iOS version.
Step 1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Step 2. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
Reset Network Settings (Last Resort):
However, if all the above-mentioned methods fail then resetting network settings might solve persistent AirPlay problems.
Step 1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 2. Now select the Reset option > Reset Network Settings.
Step 3. Enter your passcode and confirm. Finally reconnect to Wi-Fi and test AirPlay again.
3 best alternatives to AirPlay for better streaming
Even though AirPlay is a simple and convenient option to stream content, it’s not the only option. There are many more tools or apps available with extra features like file sharing and screen recording. Here are some reliable third-party apps available that might prove a better alternative to AirPlay!
EasyCast
Easy Cast is a free third-party app specially designed for screen mirroring that is compatible with all wireless devices.
Key features
- It also allows real-time streaming of videos with high resolution (1080p), audio, etc.
- You can also stream games from your devices to other devices with large screens.
- Annotation tools for presentations or teaching.
Let’s view
Let’s View is an easy-to-use wireless mirroring application that, just like AirPlay, allows you seamlessly cast smartphones/tablets in real-time.
Key features
- Streams video in 1080p high resolution
- Built-in annotation tools for presentations or teaching
- Wireless casting via Wi‑Fi or USB, no cables needed
- Suitable for home, education, and business use.
FlashGet Cast
FlashGet Cast is another fully featured screen mirroring software that allows you to share the screen.
Key features
- Real‑time streaming of video, audio and apps
- Low‑latency performance for smoother playback
- It has an emulator feature allowing Android users to play their games using a PC keyboard and mouse.
- Uses SSL ( Secure Sockets Layer) technology which prevents a third party from accessing the data shared on both devices.
Is it safe to leave AirPlay on? Discover the hidden security & privacy risks
Absolutely no leaving AirPlay enabled all the time can carry hidden security and privacy risks. That’s especially true for shared networks or in homes with multiple Apple devices. This is because when AirPlay automatically detects the nearby devices, this would cause unintended connections compromising the device security.
Moreover it is more likely that the sensitive content, like photos, messages, or work documents, could accidentally get shared on nearby TVs, speakers, etc. However, kids are more vulnerable to such risks because of their immaturity. Thats why it’s very crucial fr parents to guide kids about safe use of phone.
- Protecting minors on phones
For iOS users, you can benefit from the built-in Screen Time feature to actively monitor what they are doing on their devices. However, to enhance protection for your minors, FlashGet Kids parental control software is a smart option. Because this program places a more sophisticated ceiling on kids when they interact with the gadgets.
- Screen-mirroring: See live which type of content yor kids are scrolling or to whom interacting.
- Content filtering: Parents can set explicit content keywords themselves. This way if children enter any of these words in any content they access, you would get an instant alert.
Wrap up
Now you might be fully aware of how you can turn off AirPlay on iPhone or other Apple devices like Mac, Apple TV, Apple Watch, etc. Keep in mind that by disabling AirPlay, you’re not breaking any rules; it’s crucial for protecting your privacy and for battery performance. There are many other reliable streaming options in addition to AirPlay. Choose the one that best fits your style and privacy needs.
FAQs
You can easily check whether Airlay is on/off via your device’s control centre. For instance, if the AirPlay icon is highlighted, it means it’s activated; otherwise, it’s disabled.
AirPlay usually turns on automatically once it detects the AirPlay-enabled devices nearby. It may also show due to Handoff, previously paired devices, or default automatic AirPlay settings.
To find the AirPlay option in iPhone’s settings, simply choose General under settings. Then go for the AirPlay & Handoff. Here you can adjust automatic AirPlay, Handoff and other screen-mirroring options.
You can stop iPhone mirroring simply by accessing the Control Centre of your device. Here select the AirPlay or screen mirroring icon. Tap the device which is connected and click the stop mirroring option.
