How to Use Apple AirPlay 2 on Sony TV [Complete Compatible TVs List]

In today‘s connected home, the ability to seamlessly share content between devices has become essential. For Sony TV owners who also use Apple products, Apple AirPlay 2 bridges the ecosystem gap, allowing you to stream videos, share photos, play music, and mirror your screen without additional hardware.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Apple AirPlay 2 with your Sony television—from checking compatibility to troubleshooting common issues and maximizing your experience with expert tips.

What is Apple AirPlay 2?

Apple AirPlay 2 represents a significant advancement in wireless streaming technology. Released in 2018 as the successor to the original AirPlay protocol, this technology enables Apple users to stream audio, video, photos, and mirror their screens to compatible external devices wirelessly.

Technical Evolution of AirPlay

AirPlay has evolved considerably since its initial introduction:

Key Technical Specifications

AirPlay 2 operates with the following technical specifications:

• Network Protocol: Uses both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for device discovery and connection
• Audio Format: ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec) at 16-bit/44.1kHz
• Video Codecs: H.264 video up to 1080p at 60fps; HEVC (H.265) for 4K content
• Latency: Approximately 50-100ms (significantly lower than previous versions)
• Security: Uses time-sensitive passcodes and encryption
• Bandwidth Requirements: Minimum 7Mbps for 1080p content, 25Mbps for 4K HDR

Core Benefits for Sony TV Owners

By incorporating AirPlay 2, Sony TVs gain significant functionality:

1. Seamless Content Streaming: Send videos, music, and photos directly from Apple devices
2. Screen Mirroring: Display your iPhone, iPad, or Mac screen on your TV
3. Smart Home Integration: Control your TV through Apple‘s HomeKit
4. Multi-Room Audio: Synchronize audio across multiple AirPlay 2-compatible speakers
5. Siri Voice Control: Use voice commands to control content on your TV

Sony and Apple: A Growing Partnership

The inclusion of AirPlay 2 on Sony TVs represents a significant development in the relationship between these two tech giants. Historically, Sony and Apple maintained separate ecosystems, but this collaboration signals a shift toward greater interoperability.

Historical Context

Sony first announced AirPlay 2 support for select television models in January 2019 at CES (Consumer Electronics Show). This made Sony one of the first non-Apple TV manufacturers to embrace the technology, alongside Samsung, LG, and Vizio.

The implementation began with 2019 models, with Sony gradually expanding support to older models through firmware updates. By 2020, most of Sony‘s mid-range and premium television lineup included AirPlay 2 capabilities.

Market Impact Analysis

This partnership has strategic importance for both companies:

• For Sony: Adds value to their premium TV lineup and helps retain customers who use Apple products
• For Apple: Expands the AirPlay ecosystem beyond Apple hardware, strengthening its services business
• For Consumers: Reduces the need for additional streaming devices like Apple TV hardware

According to industry analysis, TVs with built-in AirPlay capability have seen 27% higher consumer satisfaction ratings compared to those without the feature, making this a significant value-add for Sony‘s product lineup.

Complete List of Sony TVs Compatible with Apple AirPlay 2

Sony has been implementing AirPlay 2 across its television lineup since 2019. The following comprehensive list details all compatible models categorized by display technology and series.

OLED Models

Sony‘s premium OLED televisions offer exceptional picture quality with perfect blacks and vibrant colors, making them ideal for AirPlay content consumption.

2022 OLED Models

• A95K Series: Sony‘s flagship OLED with QD-OLED technology
• A90K Series: Available in 42" and 48" sizes
• A80K/A83K/A84K Series: Mid-range OLED models
• A75K Series: Entry-level OLED lineup

2021 OLED Models

• A90J Series: Master Series OLED
• A80J/A83J/A84J Series: Standard OLED lineup

2020 OLED Models

• A9S Series: Compact Master Series (48")
• A8H/A8 Series: Standard OLED lineup

2019 OLED Models

• A9G/AG9 Series: Master Series OLED
• A8G/AG8 Series: Standard OLED lineup

2018 OLED Models (updated via firmware)

• A9F/AF9 Series: Master Series OLED
• A8F/AF8 Series: Standard OLED lineup

LED/LCD Models

Sony‘s LED/LCD televisions range from entry-level to premium models with advanced features like full-array local dimming.

2022 LED Models

• X95K Series: Mini LED flagship
• X90K/X91K/X92K/X93K/X94K Series (55"-85")
• X90K/X92K/X90S/X94S Series (50")
• X85K/X86K/X89K/85X80K Series
• X80K/X81K/X82K Series (43"-75")
• X75K Series: Entry-level
• X72K/X73K/X74K Series: Budget models

2021 LED Models

• X95J Series: Premium LED
• X90J/X91J/X92J/X93J/X94J Series (50"-75", 100")
• X91J Series (85")
• X85J/X86J/X89J Series
• X80J/X81J/X82J Series
• X79J Series

2020 LED Models

• X950H/XH95 Series
• X900H/XH90 Series
• X850H/XH85 Series
• X800H/XH80/X81H Series

2019 LED Models

• X950G/XG95 Series
• X850G/XG85/U8G Series (55", 65", 75", 85")

8K Models

Sony‘s premium 8K televisions represent the pinnacle of their lineup, offering the highest resolution displays with AirPlay 2 support.

2022 8K Models

• Z9K Series: Master Series 8K Mini LED

2021 8K Models

• Z9J Series: Master Series 8K LED

2020 8K Models

• Z8H/ZH8 Series: 8K LED

2019 8K Models

• Z9G/ZG9 Series: Master Series 8K LED

2018 8K Models (updated via firmware)

• Z9F/ZF9 Series: Master Series (technically 4K but received updates)

Professional Monitors

Sony also manufactures professional monitors with AirPlay 2 capabilities for commercial applications.

KM Series

• KM-xxX80K Series
• KM-xxX85K Series
• KM-xxX80J Series
• KM-xxX85J Series
• KM-xxX9000H Series

XRM Series

• XRM-xxA95K Series
• XRM-xxA90K Series
• XRM-xxA80K Series
• XRM-xxA90J Series
• XRM-xxA80J Series
• XRM-xxX95K Series
• XRM-xxX90K Series
• XRM-xxX95J Series
• XRM-xxX90J Series
• XRM-xxZ9K Series
• XRM-xxZ9J Series

Software Version Requirements

The minimum software version required for AirPlay 2 functionality varies by model:

Note: Some models received AirPlay 2 through system updates, while newer models have it pre-installed. Always ensure your TV is running the latest firmware.

Requirements for Using AirPlay 2 on Sony TV

Before setting up AirPlay 2 on your Sony television, ensure you meet all the following requirements for a smooth experience.

Hardware Requirements

1. Compatible Sony TV: Verify your model from the comprehensive list above
2. Apple Device: One of the following with required OS:
   • iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch (iOS 12.2 or later)
   • Mac (macOS Mojave 10.14.4 or later)
   • Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD (tvOS 12.2 or later)

Network Requirements

1. Wi-Fi Network: Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network
2. Minimum Bandwidth:
   • For HD content: 7-10 Mbps
   • For 4K HDR content: 25+ Mbps
3. Router Compatibility: 802.11n or better (802.11ac recommended)
4. Network Configuration: Make sure AP isolation or client isolation is disabled

Software Requirements

1. TV Firmware: Latest available firmware installed
2. iOS/macOS: Latest version recommended for optimal performance
3. Apple ID: Required for certain features and HomeKit integration

Optimal Network Setup

For the best AirPlay 2 experience, consider this network configuration:

How to Set Up Apple AirPlay 2 on Your Sony TV

Setting up AirPlay 2 on your Sony TV involves several steps, from ensuring your firmware is up to date to configuring security settings. Follow this detailed guide for a complete setup.

Step 1: Update Your Sony TV Firmware

The first essential step is ensuring your TV has the latest firmware installed:

1. Press the Home button on your remote control
2. Navigate to Settings (gear icon)
3. Select Device Preferences (or System on some models)
4. Choose About
5. Select System software update
6. Select Check for system software update
7. If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it
8. Your TV will restart after the update completes

Note: The update process may take 15-30 minutes. Do not turn off your TV during this time.

Step 2: Enable AirPlay on Your Sony TV

Once your TV is updated, you need to activate the AirPlay functionality:

1. Press the Home button on your remote
2. Navigate to Settings
3. Select Network & Internet (or Network on some models)
4. Choose Home network
5. Select AirPlay & HomeKit settings
6. Toggle AirPlay to On

Step 3: Configure AirPlay Security Settings

For security and convenience, customize your AirPlay settings:

1. While in the AirPlay & HomeKit settings menu, select Require Code

2. Choose your preferred security option:

   • First Time Only: Requires a passcode only the first time a device connects
   • Every Time: Requires a passcode each time a device connects
   • Use Password: Sets a specific password for all AirPlay connections

3. Configure access permissions by selecting Allow Access:

   • Everyone: Any device on the network can use AirPlay
   • Anyone on the same network: Only devices on your home network can connect
   • Only people sharing this home: Limit to devices registered in your HomeKit home

4. Optional: Select Subtitles and Captions to set your preferred format for displayed text

Step 4: Set Up HomeKit Integration (Optional)

Adding your TV to Apple HomeKit enables Siri control and smart home automation:

1. In the AirPlay & HomeKit settings menu, select Set up HomeKit
2. A QR code will appear on your TV screen
3. On your iPhone or iPad:
   • Open the Home app
   • Tap the + icon
   • Select Add Accessory
   • Scan the QR code displayed on your TV
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to name your TV and assign it to a room
5. Choose which features you want to enable

How to Use AirPlay 2 on Your Sony TV

Now that your Sony TV is configured for AirPlay 2, here‘s how to use all its features with your Apple devices.

Screen Mirroring from iPhone or iPad

Mirror your entire device screen to your Sony TV:

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center (iOS 12 or later)
2. Tap the Screen Mirroring button (two overlapping rectangles)
3. Select your Sony TV from the available devices list
4. Enter the AirPlay passcode shown on your TV if prompted
5. Your device‘s screen will now appear on the TV in real-time

To stop mirroring:

1. Open Control Center again
2. Tap Screen Mirroring
3. Select Stop Mirroring

Streaming Videos

Stream video content from compatible apps:

1. Start playing a video in a supporting app (Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV+, etc.)
2. Tap the AirPlay icon (rectangle with triangle at bottom)
3. Select your Sony TV from the list
4. The video will begin playing on your TV
5. You can continue using your device for other tasks while streaming

Supported video formats include:

• H.264 up to 1080p at 60fps
• HEVC (H.265) for 4K content at 30fps
• MP4, MOV, and M4V container formats

Sharing Photos and Slideshows

Display your photos on the big screen:

1. Open the Photos app on your iPhone or iPad
2. Select the photo(s) you want to share
3. Tap the Share button (square with upward arrow)
4. Tap the AirPlay icon
5. Choose your Sony TV

For a slideshow presentation:

1. In Photos, select multiple images
2. Tap Share > Slideshow
3. Tap AirPlay and select your Sony TV
4. Customize slideshow options like transitions and music
5. Tap Play to begin the slideshow

Streaming Music and Podcasts

Enjoy audio through your TV‘s sound system:

1. Open a music app (Apple Music, Spotify, etc.) or podcast app
2. Start playing audio content
3. Tap the AirPlay icon in the playback controls
4. Select your Sony TV
5. Optional: Select additional AirPlay 2 speakers for multi-room audio

Using AirPlay from a Mac

Stream or mirror from your Mac computer:

1. Click the Control Center icon in the menu bar (macOS Big Sur or later)
2. Click **Screen Mi