AirPlay is a fantastic service for streaming content from your iPhone to a compatible device. However, Windows PCs don't fall on that list. But you don't need to entirely miss out on AirPlay if you're an iPhone user with a Windows PC. While there are no native solutions, there are plenty of third-party apps you can use.

Though it's not the same level of convenience as simply tapping a compatible device from your AirPlay settings without any additional setup, it's the closest best thing. There are many third-party apps you can use but we found X-Mirage to be the most straightforward choice for it.

Using X-Mirage for AirPlay on Windows

X-Mirage works completely wirelessly to mirror your iPhone's screen on your Windows PC. It essentially works as a receiver for AirPlay and doesn't require much effort to get it up and running. It also works seamlessly without much lag. The app is free to install and offers a 7-day free trial (though you can extend the days) and the license for a single PC costs $19.99. It also offers GoogleCast in addition to AirPlay.

While the official page says it's only compatible till iOS 14 and Windows 10, it works flawlessly with my iOS 17-running iPhone and Windows 11 PC. Whether you want to use AirPlay on Windows for presentations or fun, X-Mirage is a great choice.

  1. To get started, visit the download page for X-Mirage and download the correct version (32-bit/ 64-bit) for your PC.
  1. Run the .exe file from the downloads and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
  2. Once the installation is complete, the app will open and it will start working right away.
  3. However, if you want to reconfigure any settings, switch to the 'Settings' tab. Here, you can change the name of the AirPlay device (as it will appear on your phone), change optimization settings, set a password, etc.

Screen Mirroring with X-Mirage

Now, to AirPlay your iPhone to your Windows, you need to make sure that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

  1. After that, open the Control Center on your iPhone (swipe down from the top-right corner).
  2. Tap on the 'Screen Mirroring' icon.
  3. Then, tap on 'X-Mirage [Device Name]' from the list.
  1. Screen Mirroring will start right away and everything you do on your iPhone will be mirrored on your PC.
  1. To stop screen mirroring, go to the Control Center again and open the Screen Mirroring settings. Then, tap on 'Stop Mirroring'. You can also close the AirPlay window on your PC to stop mirroring.

Stream Music, Movies, and Other Content

Instead of mirroring your entire screen using AirPlay, you can also mirror only the content that you want to watch/ listen to protect your privacy. It also provides more convenience as you can control the streaming from your phone's screen with AirPlay while enjoying the content on the big screen.

  1. In the video/ audio you're playing, tap the 'AirPlay' button on the screen.
  2. Then, select 'X-Mirage' from the list.
  1. Only the content will be AirPlayed to your computer and not your entire phone screen.
  1. To broadcast your photos/ videos, tap the 'Share' button from the bottom-left and select 'AirPlay' from the Share sheet.
  2. Then, select 'X-Mirage' from the options.

Other apps to consider

There are also other third-party apps you can try to use AirPlay on Windows. We've rounded up the best alternatives for your consideration.

  • AirServer: The AirServer app is another great option for using AirPlay on Windows and it also works with Miracast and GoogleCast. It also offers a 30-day free trial. It also allows screen casting from multiple devices at the same time.
  • AirDroid Cast: With AirDroid Cast, you can easily mirror your iPhone to your Windows PC. However, the AirDroid app is not just a solution for using AirPlay on Windows. It is a more rounded solution that offers screen mirroring for almost all types of devices and even offers remote control for devices which can make it confusing for users who don't need such a comprehensive solution. It is also not a free app and comes with a monthly subscription.
  • LonelyScreen: This is another simple app that lets you cast your iPhone to your Windows PC using AirPlay. But LonelyScreen can lack some features that come with other apps.

Being able to use AirPlay from your iPhone to your Windows PC bridges the gap between your devices and allows you to enjoy the big screen real estate of your PC for presentations or even just enjoyment.