How to AirPlay Plex from iPhone, iPad, or Mac

AirPlay is a fantastic feature on Apple devices that lets users stream audio, video, and more to other Apple devices like Apple TV. Combining it with Plex, a powerful media server platform, allows for a seamless media experience on larger screens. This guide will cover all the steps you need to stream content from Plex to an Apple device via AirPlay, including troubleshooting tips.

Why Use AirPlay with Plex?

Plex lets you organize and stream all your personal media collections, from movies and TV shows to photos and music. Pairing it with AirPlay allows you to enjoy your content on Apple TV or other AirPlay-enabled devices, giving a bigger screen experience without needing to download content directly onto the device.

Requirements for AirPlaying Plex

Before you start, make sure you have the following:

1. Plex Account: You’ll need to set up an account if you haven’t already done so. It’s free, with optional premium features.
2. Plex Media Server: Install Plex Media Server on a computer or NAS device where you’ve stored your media files.
3. Apple Device with AirPlay Support: An iPhone, iPad, or Mac with AirPlay capability is necessary.
4. Apple TV or AirPlay-Enabled Device: Ensure the receiving device, like Apple TV, supports AirPlay.

How do you AirPlay Plex Content on your TV?

1. Install and Set Up Plex Media Server

1. Download Plex Media Server from Plex’s official website and follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
2. Once installed, sign in to your Plex account and add your media libraries.
3. Organize your content into categories (like movies, TV shows, and music) so it’s easy to find on your AirPlay device.

2. Install the Plex App on Your Apple Device

1. Download the Plex app from the App Store on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
2. Open the Plex app, sign in with your account credentials, and ensure it connects to your Plex Media Server.

3. Connect to Wi-Fi

Both the device running Plex and the AirPlay-enabled device need to be on the same Wi-Fi network for AirPlay to function correctly.

4. Choose Content to Stream

1. Open the Plex app and browse your media library.
2. Select the content you want to stream (movie, show, or music).

5. Activate AirPlay

• On iPhone or iPad:
  1. Play the content in the Plex app.
  2. Tap on the AirPlay icon (usually found in the playback controls).
  3. Select your Apple TV or compatible AirPlay device from the list.
• On Mac:
  1. Open the content in the Plex web player or app.
  2. Click the Control Center icon on your Mac’s menu bar and select the AirPlay button.
  3. Choose the AirPlay-enabled device from the dropdown list.

Your content should now stream to the selected AirPlay device.

How to Fix AirPlay not working on Plex issue?

Sometimes, you may encounter issues when trying to AirPlay Plex. Here’s how to solve the most common problems:

1. AirPlay Icon Not Showing Up:
   • Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
   • Restart the Plex app and the AirPlay device (e.g., Apple TV).
   • Check that the AirPlay device is powered on and awake.
2. Playback Lags or Buffers:
   • Make sure you have a stable and high-speed Wi-Fi connection.
   • Reduce network load by disconnecting other devices from the Wi-Fi.
   • Lower the streaming quality in Plex settings for smoother playback.
3. Device Connection Drops:
   • Restart both devices and try again.
   • Update your iOS or macOS software and the Plex app to the latest version.
4. Content Not Supported on Apple TV:
   • Some formats may not be compatible with Apple TV. Plex can transcode media, but heavy transcoding may affect performance.
   • Consider converting your media files to AirPlay-supported formats, like MP4.

Additional Tips for a Smooth AirPlay Experience

• Use Ethernet: If possible, connect your Plex server directly to the router with an Ethernet cable. This can improve stability and streaming quality.
• Enable Plex Pass: If you’re experiencing frequent issues with transcoding or streaming, a Plex Pass subscription can unlock higher streaming quality and added features.
• Optimize for Remote Streaming: In Plex’s settings, optimize each video for remote streaming, which can sometimes improve playback quality on AirPlay.

Using Plex with AirPlay opens up new possibilities for enjoying your media on larger screens, making it perfect for family movie nights or sharing photos with friends. With the right setup and troubleshooting, you’ll be able to stream all your Plex content seamlessly. Follow this guide, and you’ll have AirPlay working smoothly with Plex in no time!

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