Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Apple TV 4K can receive video, audio, and screen mirroring from an iPhone or iPad; use HomePod as its default speaker; and respond to Siri requests from an iPhone, iPad, or HomePod. These are separate features with different setup requirements: AirPlay sends or mirrors content, Audio Output routes Apple TV sound, and Siri provides voice control.
Send iPhone or iPad content to Apple TV 4K
Use AirPlay when you want to play a particular video or audio item on Apple TV 4K. Use Screen Mirroring when you want the TV to display the device screen. Apple notes that the devices may need to be on the same network, and not every app or item is necessarily available to stream in every region.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- To send a video: Start playing it on your iPhone or iPad, tap the AirPlay control in the video, then select Apple TV 4K.
- To mirror the screen: Open Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring, then select Apple TV 4K.
Apple also documents viewing a Mac screen on Apple TV 4K. See Apple’s AirPlay and screen-mirroring instructions.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsSend audio to another AirPlay destination
To play audio from an iPhone through an AirPlay destination, choose the destination in the audio app, on the Lock Screen, or in Control Center. AirPlay 2 devices should be on the same Wi-Fi network to appear. Apple also describes handing audio to HomePod by bringing the iPhone close to it; that handoff has its own requirements, including the same Apple Account, Wi-Fi, Handoff, Home membership, Bluetooth, and proximity. It is separate from setting HomePod as Apple TV’s default output. See Apple’s iPhone audio guide.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K High Dynamic Range (Dolby Vision and HDR10) for stunning picture quality
- Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound
- A10X Fusion chip for ultra-fast graphics and performance
- Voice search by asking the Siri Remote
Use HomePod or another speaker with Apple TV 4K
There are two ways to route Apple TV audio: choose speakers for playback when needed, or set a default audio output. Apple TV 4K can send audio to one or more AirPlay speakers on the home network. Open Control Center, go to Audio controls, and choose a speaker. Speakers configured in the Home app are organized by their assigned room. Apple also documents sending audio from a HomePod or another room’s speaker back to Apple TV 4K through the controlling device’s AirPlay controls. See Apple’s multiroom audio guide.
Set a default output
- On Apple TV, open Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output.
- Select HomePod, a HomePod stereo pair, or a compatible AirPlay speaker.
For this setup, Apple says Apple TV and the speaker should be on the same network and assigned to the same room in the Home app. HomePod receives all Apple TV sound, including system and game audio. With other AirPlay speakers, system alerts and game sounds may remain on the television speakers.
Rank #2
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
HomePod stereo and surround formats
Apple describes a HomePod stereo pair as an option for stereo separation or home theater with Apple TV 4K. Its guide lists Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital 7.1, and Dolby Digital 5.1 support for a HomePod stereo pair. HomePod mini does not support Dolby surround formats, though Apple says it can render them in mono or stereo. Capabilities therefore depend on the HomePod model; consult Apple’s home theater audio guide for supported configurations.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Use eARC for sound from other devices connected to the TV
Apple TV 4K (second generation or later) can use eARC to pass sound from an eARC-supported television—or a device connected to that television—to HomePod. Apple says this can include full-resolution audio and 3D surround formats such as Dolby Atmos. It requires a compatible TV and a configured connection; it is not a guarantee that every TV or HDMI source will work.
Rank #3
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
- Connect Apple TV 4K to the TV’s eARC HDMI port using an eARC-compatible HDMI cable.
- Enable HDMI-CEC on the TV.
- Set HomePod as Apple TV’s default output under Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Output.
- In Apple TV settings, enable Play Television Audio under Audio Return Channel. The TV may also require manufacturer-specific settings.
Check Apple’s HomePod and home theater setup instructions for the compatible connection details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Control Apple TV 4K with Siri
Siri on HomePod, iPhone, or iPad can start playback or open apps on Apple TV 4K. Apple suggests naming “the TV” or the room assigned in the Home app when a request needs clarification. If HomePod and Apple TV are configured in the same room, a HomePod request may not need to name Apple TV separately. See Apple’s guides to using Siri on other devices with Apple TV 4K and using HomePod with Apple TV 4K.
Rank #4
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Organize Apple TV and speakers in the Home app
Adding Apple TV 4K to a room in the Home app helps organize speakers and supports features such as automated scenes and security-camera viewing. Apple also says HomePod can act as a home hub for supported HomeKit or Matter accessories; what it can do depends on the accessory and its requirements. Apple’s Apple TV Home app setup guide explains how to assign a room.
Quick Recap
Check these details if a device or feature is unavailable
- Network: Confirm devices are on the same network where the feature requires it; AirPlay 2 speakers should share Wi-Fi with the iPhone to appear.
- Home app room: Check that Apple TV and the intended speaker are assigned to the same room for default-output setup.
- Apple TV generation: eARC requires Apple TV 4K (second generation or later), an eARC-compatible TV connection, and the required settings.
- Speaker model: HomePod and HomePod mini do not have identical surround-format support.
- Regional and device availability: Streaming content and some features can vary by country or region and by Apple TV hardware.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
