One question we get asked a lot goes like this: “How do I connect my new Xperia XZ2 or XZ2 Compact to my TV?” There are a lot of follow-ups too: “What about my monitor or projector? Do I need a cable, or can I do it wireless? Which is better?” In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more, so that you have everything you need to make the right decision. Let’s get started!
1. Wired connections
First up, let’s cover cable connections briefly. On most modern USB-C smartphones, like the Galaxy S9, it’s possible to use a USB-C to HDMI adapter that connects your smartphone to your TV, monitor or projector without requiring any kind of wireless network. Just plug and play. Unfortunately, Sony have chosen not to include this functionality in the XZ2 or any of their recent USB-C smartphones. It’s not clear why this is, but it removes what is an incredibly useful option from the toolbox of Sony users. Hopefully Sony will realise that this feature is highly requested and add it back in future smartphones, but it’s not clear whether they will at the moment.
2. Wireless connections
So wired connections are out of the picture — what wireless options do we have? Well, Sony smartphones support Miracast, so it’s quite simple to connect to compatible smart TVs using this Wi-Fi direct standard. Simply turn on Android display mirroring on your TV (this is often a button on the remote, an app on your TV or an secondary input). From here, you’ll need to engage Miracast on your smartphone. Visit Settings > Device connection > Screen mirroring. Press Start, then select your TV. If your TV doesn’t support Miracast, keep reading to see other options or find a Miracast dongle.
Chromecast is one alternative. It’s widely available thanks to the ubiquity of the Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra, which are small dongles that plug into your TV’s HDMI and USB ports. Once connected and set up using the Google Home app, just press the Cast icon (
) in supported apps like Netflix, BT Sport, Google Play Music, YouTube and so on. If you can’t find a Cast icon and your Chromecast is definitely plugged in and working, you can go into the Google Home app and cast your entire screen. This is also nice for showing your PUBG mobile sessions on your TV, if you’re so inclined.
Wrapping up
So there we have it — three potential ways to mirror your display from the Xperia XZ2 or XZ2 Compact to your TV, of which two actually work. Get on Sony if you want the next XZ smartphone to include HDMI mirroring! Thanks for checking out the article and be sure to me know if you found it helpful in the comments below. We’ll see you on the next one!
Chromecast Ultra image source: Engadget