![]() ![]() As usual, the latest Apple TV 4K impressed us with its zippy processing and intuitive user interface, but it still puts Apple’s ecosystem of content at the forefront-which is a boon for hardcore Apple users, but less desirable for folks who aren’t subscribed to services like Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and Apple Music. And both are powered by the same A15 bionic chip found in some of Apple’s phones and earbuds. Both boxes support 4K resolution, can handle Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos content, and include the newer Siri-based remote control with a standard directional keypad. Without improvements to the Ultra’s processing components, the more affordable Streaming Stick 4K and 4K+ are still more practical, and holistically we prefer the latest Chromecast experience to what Roku offers.Īpple released two third-generation Apple TV 4K boxes in 2022: A $130 WiFi-only version with 64 GB storage and a $150 version with 128 GB storage and an ethernet (LAN) port. Beyond that, the new Ultra doesn’t significantly upgrade or change the user experience, and we still think this box is overkill for most people-unless you really need features like an Ethernet (LAN) port and expandable storage. The Voice Remote Pro complements the Roku Ultra handsomely: It has a built-in rechargeable battery (though it uses Micro-USB and not USB-C), a microphone that can be always-on or push-to-talk, two buttons you can program to be custom shortcuts, a remote finder, and a private listening mode with a headphone jack. However, the new Roku Ultra (which is a box, not an HDMI stick) comes bundled with Roku’s Voice Remote Pro for $100. Our testing revealed that the device itself is just a refresh of the 2020 version, delivering essentially the same hardware and processing as the older model. This is a great alternative to mirroring because it allows you to perform other activities on your Mac at the same time as streaming music, movies, shows, and other content on the big screen.In 2022, Roku released a new Roku Ultra-sort of. Thus, it’s possible to stream a single file from your Mac to your Roku device. Can you play a single media file using AirPlay?ĪirPlay is a service that supports mirroring and casting. Enable the option “Show mirroring options in the menu bar when available.” This should make the AirPlay icon visible and allow you to connect to a compatible Roku device. To make the icon appear on compatible devices, you’ll want to go to “System Preferences” under the “Displays” section. The other reason is that the feature could be disabled. ![]() Perhaps your Mac doesn’t support it, in which case, it won’t appear. There are two reasons the AirPlay icon might be missing. If you don’t want a constant power draw, disabling these options will make your devices more power-efficient and eco-friendly. This keeps Roku players powered and connected because it overrides the normal power settings. Enable the “Fast start” feature for your Roku Streambar.Enable the “Fast TV start” feature for your Roku TV.Go to your home screen on your Roku TV or Streambar.This can cause some issues with AirPlay and HomeKit, and potentially force you to go through a longer mirroring setup every time you want to mirror your Mac screen.Įnabling one option will help avoid this. Roku TVs and Roku Streambars won’t always remain connected to the wireless network if you power them off. On models with Mini DisplayPorts, you might require an additional adapter to support both video and audio streaming. You can connect your Mac to your Roku TV with an HDMI cable. JustStream is another third-party alternative to mirror your Mac to a Roku device, especially when dealing with macOS incompatibility issues or an older Roku model. If the channel is installed on your Roku device and your Mac is on the same network, the “Mirror for Roku” channel should open automatically and begin mirroring your Mac screen in a few seconds. Alternatively, manually launch the “Mirror for Roku” channel and click the “Start Mirroring” option.Check the box next to the “Scale Display to Fit the TV Screen” option to prevent stretching or shrinking.Enable the “Enable Sound on TV” option if you want audio to come from the TV speakers.Select your Roku in the “Target device” list.Install the “ Mirror for Roku” channel on your Roku device.Put your Mac and Roku device on the same network.Here’s how to use AirBeamTV with Mac and Roku devices. This makes it a good choice for streaming, but less impressive for productivity and work-related activities. ![]()
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