Note: This new feature is in beta and only applies to the Roku 3 Model 4200 and Roku Streaming Stick HDMI Version Model 3500. Also, you need a compatible Android or Windows 8.1 device. You can find a full list of currently supported mobile devices here.
Roku Screen Mirroring
To get everything rolling, go to Settings > Screen Mirroring (beta) on your Roku and make sure it’s enabled. Of course, also make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
If you don’t see it for some reason, go to Settings > System Update > Check Now. Your Roku should be updating itself periodically in the background, but if you’ve had it unplugged or not connected, you might have to manually update it to get the mirroring feature.
If you have a compatible Roku streaming stick or set-top box and a supported mobile device, then you need to download the Official Roku Mobile App. In this example I am using the Nokia Lumia 635 and once you have the Roku on, set your screen to project to it. To do that, go to Settings > System > Project My Screen. Next it should find the Roku and to start mirroring your phone, just tap on its icon.
Here are a couple of shots of it working on my home set up – the pictures aren’t the greatest, but proves it does work. I was able to mirror everything on my screen, but in the first example I am mirroring the Windows Phone, I haven’t had a chance to test Android or a Windows 8.1 device yet, but I am sure the results are similar.
And here is an example of mirroring Xbox Music on the big screen – and yes. All audio comes through as well as the images.
Give it a shot if you have compatible devices and let us know what your experience is like! Remember this is a beta, so you can expect some bugs and glitches. For example, each time my phone’s screen would timeout, I would need to reconnect. Kind of annoying, but still something to play with in the living room if you have the time. Enjoy! Do you have both Brian? Which do you prefer? I’m guessing Roku is using some sort of Miracast which is what Microsoft uses I think…? Did you see this — http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/en-us/p/wireless-display-adapter Microsoft is looking to get into the biz now also. It’s a “ME TO” device but if it works, I’m cool with it… You should do a write up on it (before I buy it). ;) Roku uses Bluetooth for some things, like on the Roku 3 the remote has earbuds that you can plug into it, and it uses it for that. Screen mirroring is done via Miracast though. I have heard of the Microsoft display adapter, and Paul Thurrott wrote up a nice review of it: http://winsupersite.com/mobile/microsoft-wireless-display-adapter-first-impressions As far as Apple TV vs Roku, I choose Roku, although, if you have an Apple TV 2 you can do some interesting things with it if you jailbreak it which I wrote about: https://www.groovypost.com/howto/jailbreak-apple-tv-2/ But good luck finding one, and on ebay they go for nearly $200 already jailbroken. Hope that helps. Comment Name * Email *
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