I’m trying to stream content from my iPhone to a Chromecast device but can’t figure it out. I want to watch videos on my TV from my iPhone gallery and also from the apps like YouTube or Netflix. Can anyone guide me on how to set it up?
Yes — even though AirPlay and Chromecast don’t speak the same language, you can stream from an iPhone to a Chromecast using a couple of different approaches. The method you choose depends on whether you want to stream directly from apps (YouTube, Netflix, etc.) or mirror content like photos and videos from your iPhone.
Method 1 – Streaming from Apps (YouTube, Netflix, etc.)
Most major streaming apps already have built-in Chromecast support, so this is the easiest and most stable option.
Steps:
- Make sure your iPhone and Chromecast are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open a supported app (YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, etc.).
- Tap the Cast icon (rectangle with Wi-Fi waves).
- Select your Chromecast device — the content will start playing on your TV.
Tip: In this mode, the video streams directly from the internet to Chromecast, not from your phone, so playback is usually smooth and high quality.
Method 2 – Mirroring Apps
If you want to stream videos or photos from your iPhone gallery, you’ll need a third-party app like DoCast.
Steps:
- Install DoCast on your iPhone.
- Connect both your iPhone and Chromecast to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open DoCast → select your Chromecast.
- Choose Photos or Videos and start streaming.
A Small Personal Tip
One thing I noticed from personal use: since iPhone and Chromecast don’t integrate natively, some basic TV actions can feel a bit awkward — especially if you’re using Chromecast with Google TV or a Google TV streamer. In those cases, I sometimes used a universal remote app on my phone, like TVRem, simply to navigate menus or type text on the TV. It’s not related to mirroring or casting itself, just a small convenience when the physical remote isn’t nearby.
Conclusion
If your main goal is to stream content from an iPhone to Chromecast, DoCast is the most practical solution for photos and videos, while built-in Chromecast support in apps like YouTube or Netflix is ideal for streaming online content.
Compared to relying solely on app-level casting, DoCast gives you more flexibility when you want to show personal media stored on your iPhone. And unlike trying to force AirPlay to work with Chromecast, it’s designed specifically for this setup, which makes it more reliable and easier to use.
In short:
- Use built-in Chromecast for supported apps.
- Use DoCast when you want to stream photos or videos from your iPhone.
- Expect a bit of setup, since iPhone and Chromecast aren’t native companions.
Once everything is set up, Chromecast works surprisingly well with an iPhone — you just need the right tools for the job.
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You can absolutely stream from your iPhone to Chromecast, but let’s just say it’s not as iOS-friendly as Apple’s AirPlay. If you’ve got videos in your iPhone gallery or are trying to cast Netflix, YouTube, or other apps, there are two key routes to get it done.
If you’re looking to cast personal content like photos or videos from your gallery, @mikeappsreviewer mentioned using a third-party app like DoCast for iPhone screen mirroring, and that’s definitely a solid approach! Setup is simple, and it bridges that annoying gap between Apple and Google tech ecosystems. However, depending on your content or network, you might run into occasional lag while mirroring. Not deal-breaking, but worth keeping in mind.
For apps like YouTube or Netflix though, let’s be real—you don’t need to overthink it. Those apps have built-in Chromecast support, so casting is as simple as hitting the little cast icon (usually in the top corner of the screen) while you’re connected to the same Wi-Fi as your Chromecast. This method is ridiculously smooth and doesn’t involve using additional apps or tools. Also, it saves you from screaming at laggy workarounds.
But, here’s where I slightly differ from what Mike said: Personally, I feel like screen mirroring should be your fallback method, and not your go-to option unless you reaaaally have to. Video quality sometimes isn’t as crisp when mirroring compared to apps that are natively optimized for Chromecast (they stream directly over Google’s protocol, rather than bouncing off your phone). So, prep for a minor quality dip if you’re binging content that way.
TL;DR: Use built-in casting for apps like YouTube/Netflix first. For personal photos/videos, try a mirroring app like DoCast, but it might not be flawless. Your experience will depend on your patience level and Wi-Fi stability.
Streaming from your iPhone to a Chromecast? Ah, the classic tech WWF smackdown: Apple vs. Google. It’s not exactly plug-and-play because AirPlay and Chromecast speak totally different ‘languages.’ But don’t worry, your iPhone and Chromecast can still team up—kinda like an unlikely buddy-cop movie.
Option 1: Built-in Chromecast Support
If you’re dealing with apps like YouTube, Netflix, or Disney+, you’re golden. These apps play nicely with Chromecast:
- Open the app on your iPhone (make sure your iPhone’s on the same Wi-Fi as your Chromecast).
- Hit the little casting icon—it looks like a TV with waves.
- Pick your Chromecast device. Boom, your video is on the big screen. No extra tools needed, no headache either.
Option 2: Third-Party Apps for Photos/Videos from Your iPhone
Now, if you’re wanting to cast those embarrassing high school dance recital videos (or, y’know, just your iPhone gallery content), you’ll have to work around Apple’s ecosystem walls. Enter third-party apps like the DoCast app.
Here’s how you roll with DoCast:
- Download and set it up—nothing too technical here.
- Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (seriously, this step trips people up all the time).
- Mirror your iPhone’s screen, and voilà! Now your TV can showcase every blurry 2018 photo you’re too scared to delete.
BUT… Here’s my (minor) gripe with mirroring apps: They’re not always silky smooth. Image quality might dip or there’s lag depending on your network, which can kill the vibe if you’re midway through a personal slideshow.
Quick Pro Tip: If you’re streaming only videos, upload them to your Google Photos account or YouTube. From there, you can cast directly without needing mirroring apps. Trust me, it’s simpler and doesn’t stress your Wi-Fi as much.
Again, huge credit to @mikeappsreviewer and @waldgeist—your points are solid, especially about keeping mirroring as plan B. Bet Apple secretly smirks every time they make this process annoyingly harder. 
Alright, you’re looking to stream from your iPhone to a Chromecast? It’s not the effortless ‘tap and go’ you’d get in an Apple-dominated setup, but with a bit of patience and the right tools, you’re good to go.
TL;DR
Streaming apps like YouTube or Netflix? Just hit the cast icon (no-brainer).
For personal stuff like iPhone gallery content? You’ll need a workaround app like DoCast or alternatives. Here’s a breakdown of methods and pitfalls:
Method 1: Apps with Native Chromecast Support (The Smooth Route)
- Apps such as YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify natively support Chromecast.
- How-To: Open the app, tap the cast icon, select your Chromecast—and boom, done!
- The Good: No additional apps. Lag-free.
- The Bad: Limited to supported platforms. Photos and personal vids? Nope.
Method 2: Third-Party Apps for Full iPhone to Chromecast Casting
This is where DoCast app shines, allowing you to mirror whatever’s on your iPhone screen. Naturally, it’s your go-to option for showcasing your hilarious cat videos or embarrassing vacation photos.
Steps:
- Download DoCast from the App Store.
- Ensure your iPhone and Chromecast are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the app, follow prompts, and mirror away.
Pros:
- Works for just about everything: photos, gallery videos, presentations.
- Simple to use.
Cons:
- Lag and quality issues may surface depending on your network.
- It’s stronger on visuals than fluid video playback—don’t expect buttery HD streams.
- Competitors like Screen Mirror or TV Cast offer similar features, so shop around if needed.
Quick Note: Screen-mirroring apps often have a freemium vibe: basic functions free, but premium features (like no ads or full HD) may require payment.
Creative Alternative: Google Photos or Cloud Options
For iPhone-to-Chromecast video casting, consider uploading media to Google Photos. Once synced, you can cast directly from the Google Photos app’s cast button, sidestepping the third-party mirroring hassle. Think of it as a visual Dropbox-meets-Chromecast solution, minus the lag.
Pros:
- Smooth video playback.
- No extra apps cluttering your phone.
Cons:
- Requires you to upload files first (not instant).
- Less convenient for ‘impromptu’ gallery sharing.
My Take: When to Use What
If you’re binging on Netflix or scrolling through YouTube channels, stick with native Chromecast support—it’s seamless. But for personal pics or non-supported apps? Give DoCast a shot. Just don’t expect magic; these apps are decent, but won’t fully replicate the integration you’d get in the Apple ecosystem.
And hey, pro tip—if lag drives you nuts during mirroring, try troubleshooting your Wi-Fi strength. Slow network = sluggish casting.