3 Methods for Pixel Screen Mirroring & Fix Common Issues

Pixel 9 is equipped with AI-powered features - the Gemini AI assistant defaulted in the new smartphone series. Said by Google, Gemini is quite helpful to do creativity and summary work, but remains limited performance to activate apps.

When it comes to screen mirroring, this AI assistant seems unable to play a better role. Nothing serious. It'll grow into a real assistant over time. However, if you're looking for Pixel screen mirroring solutions, you don't have to wait. Read on to get tools and their use guides.

Overview of Cast Feature in Pixel

Using the built-in screen mirroring feature is always the primary solution. Whether you're using Pixel 6/7/8 or models like 8a/8 pro, you can find the casting feature "Screen Cast" from the notification bar when you swipe down the screen. As for Pixel 9/9 pro/9 pro xl, the feature name is "Cast."

And of course, you can also activate the feature through Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences > Cast.

3 Methods for Pixel Screen Mirroring

Method 1:How to Cast Pixel to Smart TV with the Native Feature?

Here, I will use Pixel 9 for the demonstration. Before starting, please note that not all smart TVs are available for Google Pixel screen mirroring. Only TVs with Chromecast built-in or support Google Chromecast streaming dongle can be cast.

Now, follow these steps to mirror your Pixel phone screen.

For TV with Chromecast built-in:

Step 1: Open your smart TV and use a WiFi network that is the same as your Pixel.

Step 2: Open your Pixel 9 and swipe down the screen from the top. Tap “Cast.”

Step 3: Wait for the auto search. When a pop-up window appears, tap the TV name.

For TVs that use a Chromecast dongle:

Step 1: Plug the Chromecast dongle into your smart TV.

As you open the Chromecast with Google TV, connect the charger and the Chromecast device together. Then, find the HDMI input on your TV. Plug the Chromecast device into the port. Remember to keep the device charged.

Step 2: Set up Chromecast on your TV.

Use the original remote to enter the HDMI that you plug the Chromecast device in. Next, use the Chromecast remote ( the white one) to complete the instruction.

a. Select language.

b. Set up with the Google Home app.

1) Open Google Home on your Pixel 9.

2) Then, tap Set up Chromecast and wait for the app to search the Chromecast device. In general, the app will prompt "Would you like to set up ChromecastXXXX?" (the ID is shown at the top left corner of your TV.)

3) Scan the QR code with your phone.

4) Connect to the WiFi. This step is to choose the network for your TV. Just use the one the same as your Pixel.

5) Sign in your Google account. Samely, this step is to make the TV to login an account.

There are a few more instructions about settings. You can skip them or do it based on needs. As the system finishes installation on your TV, you can screencast Pixel to TV simply.

Step 3: Cast Pixel 9 to your smart TV.

Tap the Cast feature on your Pixel 9. The TV will display and allow you to choose it. Tap the TV name next.

Or, you can open the Google Home app > Devices > Your TV name > Cast my screen to mirror your phone screen.

Method 2: How to Cast Pixel to Smart TV with In-app Casting Feature?

Still, only Chromecast-compatible TVs support Google Pixel screen mirroring. Streaming mobile apps like YouTube, Netflix, or Disney+ are available to cast from Pixel to smart TVs. And you can just use the screen casting feature within the apps.

If you’re using a Chromecast-compatible TV, start with:

Step 1: Check if your TV and Pixel are using the same WiFi. If no, change the network.

Step 2: Open YouTube app on your phone. Play the video you want to cast.

Step 3: Find the Cast icon at the top of the screen. Tap it.

Step 4: Select the TV from the device list.

Method 3: How to Cast Pixel to Smart TV with USB-C to HDMI Cable?

The wired connection requires Pixel 8 and later.

And the process is quite easy.

Step 1: Plug the USB-C port into your Pixel phone and the HDMI to the smart TV.

Step 2: You will see a message (“Mirror to external Display?”) on your phone after connecting.

Step 3: Select Mirror display.

The Pixel screen will be cast to your TV at once.

Common Issues When Casting from Pixel

1Device Not Found

Reason: Different network; TV does not support Chromecast; Outdated mobile OS.

Solutions:

• Double-check that both your Pixel phone and the TV/Chromecast are connected to the same network (sometimes you may accidentally connect to a 2.4GHz network while the Chromecast is on 5GHz or vice versa).
• Check if the TV has built-in Chromecast by visiting the official website or the customer support.

2Mirroring Won’t Start

Reason: Casting is disable.

Solutions:

• Enable cast on the TV via settings.
• Allow screen mirroring on your Pixel.

3Lag or Buffering

Reasons: Wi-Fi signal strength; video quality is too high.

Solutions:

• Use a wired connection.
• Try moving the router closer to the devices or use a Wi-Fi extender.

4Casting Stops or Disconnects

Solutions:

• Make sure your Pixel phone is not going into sleep mode while casting.
• Battery-saving modes can interfere with casting. Ensure that Battery Saver is off while casting content.
• Recheck Wi-Fi stability.