Watching YouTube is becoming more convenient by the day. The popular video-sharing platform was only created in 2005, but it has already amassed billions of viewers around the globe. Not only that, but it has also transitioned from being a simple video-sharing site accessed by random users to a hub for content-creators of different genres and a plethora of online users watching almost 24/7.
From watching 3-minute videos on your PC to an hour-long live stream and film with your mobile phone, YouTube’s accessibility allows every viewer to binge-watch an almost unlimited number of videos available on the internet. While it is very convenient to bring your gadget with you anywhere in your home and still be able to watch a video, have you ever thought about bringing the HD experience to your own 65 inch TV? Casting your YouTube videos on your big screen TV can be made even better if you use a soundbar because you can easily transform your TV into a digital and audio content hub for your home that you can use to watch movies, shows and listen to music.
Whether you want to have a movie marathon with your friends on the weekend or you simply want a bigger screen for your daily dose of YouTube, here are some ways on how you can cast YouTube on your TV.
YouTube App via Smart TV
Smart TVs made from 2013 to present most likely have the YouTube app pre-installed. Just visit your smart TV’s app menu to check if it’s already there, but you can also download it manually on the built-in app store – just check you have downloaded the correct version.
Once the app loads, login by using your Google account so you can access your saved videos and playlists. The usual YouTube recommendation algorithm on your phone will also take effect here. You can use your TV remote to control the app, or you can pair your phone, tablet, or PC with your TV to make it easier and more convenient.
Screen mirroring from PC/laptop or mobile phone to TV
Depending on your gadget, there are several ways on how to use your TV as a secondary screen for your PC, laptop, or mobile phone. For PC and laptop, you can either go wired or wireless. To make a wired connection, you’ll need an HDMI cable. You can use your TV as a second monitor for your PC, or simply mirror the same thing on your PC.
For wireless connection, your smart TV and your PC should support screen mirroring via Wifi Direct for this to work. Access this feature by selecting screen mirroring on your PC and check the list of connected devices. Select ‘Add device’ and choose your smart TV.
To connect your phone to your TV, both devices should be compatible with each other. Android and iOS phones have different specifications and compatibilities, so you’ll have to check if these will match the model of your smart TV. OS versions are also an important concern when checking compatibility, so make sure that your phone is updated with the latest version available.
If you are an Android user, the OS version needs to be 4.2 or higher for you to connect with your smart TV using Miracast Wireless Display. For Apple users, screen mirroring will be done using Apple AirPlay.
Take a look at these instructions on how to cast YouTube to your TV using Chromecast: