With the release of iOS 17.3 for iPhone, it is now possible to use AirPlay with compatible TVs in some hotels via a new QR code system.
AirPlay lets you start playback on the TV of a movie from a streaming app on iPhone, or wirelessly share to the TV your own videos, photos or music stored on iPhone. AirPlay works with more or less all streaming services except Netflix.
It works fairly seamlessly at home over WiFi, but hotels' so-called captive portals that require you to log in with user credentials or accept terms limits many forms of cross-device functionality including AirPlay and Chromecast. Apple has now addressed the limitation.
- "AirPlay hotel support lets you stream content directly to the TV in your room in select hotels," announced Apple.
Which hotels?
Apple explained that the extension of AirPlay works by scanning a QR code shown on the hotel TV with the iPhone that you wish to use for the purpose. The iPhone must first be updated to iOS 17.3, which is available now.
How it works. Photo: Apple
At WWDC 2023 in June last year, where hotel TV support was announced, Apple said that two of its launch partners include LG Electronics and IHG Hotel & Resorts.
However, no specific hotels or locations were confirmed so for now you will just have to check. Expect wider availability to roll out in the coming years.
Google is also planning to make Chromecast compatible with hotels TV.
