For Apple device users, wirelessly streaming content to a television has become a habit. However, not everyone owns an Apple TV, which raises a common question: can you use AirPlay on the Freebox Pop without having to purchase additional Apple hardware? The answer is yes, although it requires adding a third-party application to the Player Pop.
By default, the Freebox Pop does not natively integrate the AirPlay protocol. However, thanks to its Android TV system and the integrated Google Play Store, it is possible to install compatible applications that make the box receptive to AirPlay signals sent from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Necessary configuration to activate AirPlay on the Freebox Pop
Before using AirPlay on your Freebox Pop, certain settings must be checked to avoid any incompatibility:
- Your Freebox Pop must be connected to the television via the Player Pop Android TV, and the latter must be turned on.
- The iPhone, iPad, or Mac computer must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the Player.
- The Google Play Store must be accessible via the Android TV home menu.
These elements ensure smooth communication between Apple devices and the Freebox. Without this, the broadcast cannot be detected or launched.
Which application to install to make the Freebox compatible with AirPlay?
Since the Freebox does not support AirPlay by default, you need to install an application capable of acting as a receiver. Two solutions are particularly effective and regularly updated:
AirScreen
Free in its basic version, AirScreen is one of the most popular applications for wireless streaming on Android TV. It supports several protocols:
- AirPlay (Apple)
- Google Cast (Android)
- Miracast (Windows)
- DLNA (home networks)
The application offers quick setup and compatibility with a wide range of iOS and macOS devices.
AirPin(PRO)
A paid but more stable version, it is often chosen by those who wish to share the screen smoothly or stream audio continuously without interruption. It also allows configuring more advanced settings to optimize video or audio quality.
Steps to activate AirPlay reception on Freebox Pop
Once the application is chosen, here’s how to configure it effectively:
- Turn on the Freebox Pop and go to the Play Store.
- Search for “AirScreen” or “AirPin(PRO)” in the search bar.
- Install the application and then open it from the Android TV main menu.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to activate AirPlay detection mode.
- Once activated, the Freebox will appear in the list of AirPlay devices on your iPhone or Mac.
This operation only takes a few minutes, and once in place, you can send videos, music, or even web content directly to the television.
How to send Apple content to the Freebox via AirPlay
After installation, you can use the AirPlay function as with an Apple TV:
- On iPhone or iPad:
Access the Control Center, tap on “Screen Mirroring” or the AirPlay icon in compatible apps (YouTube, Photos, Apple TV, etc.), then select the name of your Freebox. - On Mac:
Click on the AirPlay icon in the menu bar, or go to System Preferences > Displays, then select “Mirror Display”.
These methods allow you to share videos, as well as display slideshows or professional presentations on a large screen.
What to do if the Freebox does not appear in AirPlay devices?
Sometimes the Freebox is not immediately recognized by Apple devices. Here are some checks to perform:
- Manually launch the AirScreen application on the Freebox Pop before trying to stream.
- Ensure all devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (and not on the guest Wi-Fi).
- Restart the Freebox and the phone, a simple network reconnection can unlock the situation.
- Temporarily disable Bluetooth, which can interfere with Wi-Fi signals on some iPhone models.
If the problem persists, you can try another compatible application or test the connection on another network.