Miracast is a wireless broadcasting technology that enables the screen of one device to be projected onto another, usually a TV or projector. It relies on a direct connection between the two devices, without the need for a router or intermediate Wi-Fi network.
What is Miracast?
Miracast was designed to provide a simple method of screen duplication, notably for casting presentations, videos or apps from a laptop, smartphone or tablet to a larger screen. For example, it enables users to share content from their Android or iOS device on a compatible TV, without using an HDMI cable. As the connection is direct, the signal only passes between the two devices, reducing latency and facilitating rapid use, whether in a professional or domestic setting.
This technology is also used to collaborate or for presentations in a corporate environment. On some systems, sharing can be triggered without a software client. Miracast can be used for a variety of purposes, such as remote meetings, document display or screen duplication during video calls. It can be activated on demand, sometimes by a simple keyboard shortcut, and in some cases the user can choose between different display modes, such as screen extension or duplication.
- See the guide – Miracast: casting smartphone images to a TV, wirelessly
Miracast technical specifications
Miracast is a standard developed and certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance. It is based on Wi-Fi Direct technology, which enables two devices to connect to each other without using an access point. The protocol used relies on existing video streaming standards, notably the H.264 codec, to transmit audio and video in real time with a quality equivalent to that of a wired connection.
Since its launch, Miracast has evolved to offer two connection modes: direct via Wi-Fi Direct, and transmission over network infrastructure via MS-MICE (Miracast over Infrastructure), a method that enables use of the existing network, whether Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This facilitates integration in environments where direct Wi-Fi is restricted, while maintaining an identical user experience. The ports used vary according to mode: TCP 7236 for Wi-Fi Direct, and TCP 7250 for MS-MICE. The RTSP protocol is used for data flow in both cases.
Miracast alternatives
Several other technologies can be used to project or broadcast content wirelessly, depending on the platforms and devices used:
- Google Cast (Chromecast): Works with Android, Chrome and certain compatible apps. Allows you to send a tab, a video or the whole screen to a Chromecast-compatible TV or display.
- AirPlay: Apple’s wireless protocol for sharing the screen or content from an iPhone, iPad or Mac to an Apple TV or compatible TV.
- DLNA: Allows multimedia files (photos, videos, music) to be streamed from one device to another via the local network, but without screen duplication.
- Steam Link / Remote Play: A game-oriented broadcasting solution, enabling streams to be sent from a PC to a TV or smartphone.
- Samsung Smart View / SmartThings: Samsung’s proprietary solution for sending content to Samsung TVs.
- Scrcpy: Open source tool for displaying the screen of an Android device on a computer via USB or Wi-Fi, often used for debugging or demonstration purposes.
Miracast remains a practical solution for sharing the screen of an Android or Windows device to a larger screen without cables, especially when no additional hardware is required. Its integration into many systems, its compatibility with existing broadcast standards and its variants (Wi-Fi Direct or network infrastructure) make it a useful technology in many contexts, although it is gradually being challenged by other solutions more fully integrated into certain ecosystems.
Questions fréquentes sur Miracast
No, Miracast creates a direct connection between the two devices. It doesn’t use your router or the Internet. It even works without Wi-Fi at home.
Most Android phones and Windows PCs are compatible. So are many recent TVs. On the other hand, the iPhone and Mac offer AirPlay.
On Android, look for “Cast”, “Smart View” or “Screen Sharing” in the settings. On TVs, check the menu for Miracast or Screen Mirroring.
Activate Miracast on your TV. On the phone, choose “Cast” or “Smart View”, then select the TV. Connection takes just a few seconds.
Switch on your TV and activate Miracast. On the PC, press Win+K and select your TV. The PC screen will be displayed wirelessly on the TV.
You can buy a small Miracast adapter to plug into your TV. It adds wireless capability. It’s easy to install and often inexpensive.
Yes, Miracast is free to use. It’s built into compatible devices. No need for a subscription or special app.
Miracast copies the entire screen without Internet. Chromecast plays videos from apps such as YouTube using Wi-Fi. Miracast is direct, Chromecast uses the network.
No, iPhones are not compatible with Miracast. Apple uses its own technology called AirPlay. You need an Apple TV or an AirPlay-compatible TV.
Miracast works well up to 5 to 10 meters. It’s best to be in the same room. Too many walls or obstacles can disrupt the casting.
Keep away from interference (busy Wi-Fi, walls). Use the 5 GHz band if possible. Restart both devices to improve stability.
Yes, the data is encrypted. No one can intercept what you send. In most cases, a PIN code is displayed to authorize connection.
Yes, the sound is sent with the image. No need for an audio connection. Sound is output directly from the TV’s drivers.
Yes, for most everyday uses. It’s handy for avoiding cables. But a cable is still more reliable for gaming or very high quality.
