The directory for HomeKit compatible devices
AirPlay 2 might not grab headlines like iPhones or Vision Pro headsets, but this behind-the-scenes tech quietly powers some of the slickest experiences in Apple’s ecosystem. Whether you're blasting music in every room of your house or seamlessly tossing a YouTube video from your iPhone to your TV, AirPlay 2 is doing the heavy lifting.
In this article, we’ll explore what AirPlay 2 is, how it works, what makes it better than its predecessor, and how you can use it to its full potential.
AirPlay 2 is Apple’s proprietary wireless streaming protocol that allows you to stream audio, video, and screen content from Apple devices (like iPhones, iPads, Macs) to compatible receivers such as Apple TVs, HomePods, smart TVs, and speakers.
It’s the second generation of AirPlay, which Apple first introduced in 2010 under the name AirTunes. While the original AirPlay was limited to single-device audio and video streaming, AirPlay 2 introduced multi-room audio, buffering improvements, and enhanced device control.
Perhaps the biggest headline feature of AirPlay 2 is the ability to stream audio to multiple speakers simultaneously. Want music in the kitchen, living room, and patio at the same time? No problem.
You can also control each speaker’s volume independently via Control Center or the Home app.
AirPlay 2 uses better buffering techniques, meaning fewer dropouts and stutters. It also handles interruptions better—so if you get a phone call, your music doesn’t abruptly stop streaming to your speakers.
AirPlay 2 devices can be added to the Apple Home app and grouped into rooms. That means you can say, “Hey Siri, play jazz in the dining room,” and music will start playing there—without touching your phone.
This is an under-the-radar feature. AirPlay 2-enabled speakers like the HomePod can be used by multiple people in the household. Siri can recognize different voices and tailor responses accordingly (if voice recognition is enabled).
You can still cast video content to Apple TVs and supported smart TVs. Whether it’s a Netflix episode or a vacation photo slideshow, AirPlay 2 handles both video and audio streaming beautifully.
Here’s where things get a bit technical. AirPlay 2 support requires both software and hardware compatibility.
Many third-party brands now support AirPlay 2, including:
You can find the full list of AirPlay 2-compatible devices on Apple’s website:
https://www.apple.com/airplay
AirPlay 2 uses Wi-Fi instead of Bluetooth, and that brings some significant advantages:
| Feature | AirPlay 2 | Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Quality | Lossless (ALAC) | Compressed (SBC/AAC) |
| Range | Whole house (Wi-Fi) | ~30 feet (typical) |
| Multi-Room Audio | Yes | No |
| Supports Video | Yes | No |
| Battery Impact (on sender) | Minimal | Moderate |
So if you're an audiophile or just want a seamless experience, AirPlay 2 is hands-down the better choice.
You can mirror your screen by clicking the AirPlay icon in the menu bar (or Display settings) and choosing the desired device.
AirPlay 2 is great, but it’s not without flaws:
AirPlay 2 isn’t flashy, but it’s a cornerstone of Apple’s ecosystem. It turns your home into a cohesive, responsive, and intuitive audio-visual experience, especially when paired with HomeKit. Whether you're hosting a party, relaxing on the couch, or navigating a chaotic Tuesday morning, AirPlay 2 just works—often so seamlessly that you barely notice it.
And that might be the highest compliment we can pay to any piece of technology.
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