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How to Stream from Your Phone to Roku: Expert Step-by-Step Guide

Experience the convenience of casting content from your phone to Roku for bigger-screen enjoyment. The one-time setup takes just minutes, unlocking instant streaming thereafter.

Before Streaming from Your Phone to Roku

  1. Download the Roku mobile app on your phone.
  2. Connect your phone and Roku to the same Wi-Fi network—the app requires this for seamless connectivity.
  3. Ensure the streaming app is installed on your Roku device.

Note: For subscription apps like Netflix, sign in with the same account on both devices. Free apps like YouTube don't require this.

Once set up, streaming becomes effortless.

Download: Roku mobile app for Android | iOS

Streaming from Your Phone to Roku

  1. Open the app on your phone (no need to launch it on Roku).
  2. Tap the Cast icon.
  3. Select your Roku device from the list.
  4. Content launches automatically on your TV.

What You Need to Know About Streaming on Roku

With casting, control content from your phone without disrupting the TV view. You can even turn off your phone screen during playback. Use your phone or Roku remote for controls.

Note: Casting doesn't support personal videos or photos—use the free Roku app for that.

Look for the Cast icon to confirm app compatibility; it may appear only after starting playback.

Mirroring vs. Casting to Roku

Don't confuse casting with screen mirroring—key differences matter for the best experience.

Casting sends one app's content to Roku, freeing your phone for other tasks. Mirroring duplicates your entire phone screen on TV, reflecting every action and button.

Mirroring requires your phone to stay on and active; casting doesn't. Casting needs app support on both devices; mirroring shows everything, making it ideal for unsupported apps.

Currently, mirroring works on Android and Windows. Roku OS 9.4 will add AirPlay 2 for iPhones on select 4K models, enabling easy streaming from apps and personal libraries.

Benefits of Streaming from Phone to Roku

Skip endless Roku searches post-setup. It's a time-saver and perfect workaround for iPhone users avoiding full mirroring.