Airplay on Android - how it works

Airplay is actually a function that is reserved for iOS users. With a few tricks, you can also use the function on Android. In our practical tip below, we will explain how you can use Airplay on your Android device.

Turn Android device into Airplay receiver

If you use your Android device as an AirPlay receiver, you can send music and videos to your Android device from another AirPlay-enabled device, such as an iPad. This is particularly useful if you connect your Android device to the TV or stereo system, for example, and use it as a wireless receiver.

1. The easiest way to turn your Android device into an AirPlay receiver is via the free application Kodi (formerly XBMC). Kodi actually serves as a media center, but also has useful features like AirPlay. To do this, download Kodi and install the APK.
2. Once you've installed Kodi on your Android device, you'll still need to install AirPlay. To do this, move to Settings in Kodi. Then select the "Services" button.
3. In the submenu on the left side you will find the "AirPlay" tab, select it. Place a checkmark to the right of "Activate AirPlay support". If you want to restrict who can send content to Kodi via AirPlay, you can also set password protection.
4. If you now try to send content via AirPlay via an iOS device or iTunes, you should see your Android device with the identifier "Kodi".
5. Note: Kodi can cause problems with some versions of Amazon's Fire TV. If you still cannot open the app after a new installation, you should try it under "Settings"> "Applications"> "Kodi"> "Start app". However, the developers are already working on a solution.

Send content to Airplay devices with Android

The other variant is that you send content from your Android device via AirPlay to other AirPlay-compatible devices in order to play them back. An example would be that you have an Apple TV but want to display content from your Android device on it.

1. There are various app solutions for this. It works best with the "AllCast" app, which we will introduce to you in detail elsewhere.
2. With AllCast you can send content from almost any other Android app to compatible recipients via AirPlay or DLNA. The easy handling and the great compatibility also outside of AirPlay makes AllCast extremely attractive.
3. As soon as you have started and installed AllCast, the app searches for compatible receivers in your home network. As soon as your AirPlay receiver has been found, you can select photos, videos or music from your gallery and then stream it via AirPlay.
4. You can also use the system-wide sharing function of Android to stream YouTube videos via AllCast and AirPlay, for example.

Alternative to Apple Airplay

Google-Cast offers a good alternative to Apple AirPlay, this function is available for both iOS and Android devices.

• Instead of an Apple TV, you need a Google Chromecast as the receiver.
• This is connected to a TV or monitor via HDMI, for example.
• You need the "Google Home" app on your smartphone. There are also various compatible third-party apps on Google Play or in the Apple App Store.

You have no idea about AirPlay? Don't worry, we'll explain AirPlay to you in another practical tip.