How to AirPlay Linux

AirPlay and its successor, AirPlay 2, have revolutionized the realm of media-sharing. These features, embedded within the Apple ecosystem, allow users to share screens or audio files seamlessly from one Apple device to another, be it an iOS device, Mac, or HomePod.

However, when it comes to integrating this Apple-exclusive feature with a Linux-based system, the official stance is less than encouraging. But fret not! While direct AirPlay might be off the table, there are alternative features like screen mirroring that bridge the gap. By leveraging open-source AirPlay servers, one can build and install solutions that enable the mirroring of content from an iPhone or iPad to a Linux Desktop environment.

AirPlay, a feature predominantly associated with the Apple ecosystem, has revolutionized the way we share content across devices. However, when it comes to Linux-based systems, the integration isn’t as seamless. While Apple devices are naturally equipped to handle AirPlay, Linux requires a bit of maneuvering. The good news? With the right third-party software, you can bridge the gap between your Apple device and Linux PC. This software acts as an AirPlay client on your Linux system, allowing it to receive content from Apple devices, which function as the AirPlay server.

How to Use Screen Mirror (AirPlay) on Linux:

Screen mirroring, often associated with AirPlay, is a method to reflect the content of one device onto another. For Linux users, this can be achieved through specific third-party applications. Once installed on your Linux PC, these applications enable it to act as an AirPlay client.

This means your Linux PC can receive content shared from an AirPlay server, such as an iOS device or a Mac. Among the popular choices for this purpose are software like Wondershare and AirServer. These tools ensure that the content mirroring process is smooth and hassle-free.

How to Install Wondershare on Linux:

To get Wondershare up and running on your Linux PC, follow these steps:

Launch your Chrome browser and navigate to the official Wondershare website.
Spot the Download button and click on it to initiate the download process.
Once the app is downloaded, locate the file on your PC.
Right-click within the file’s directory and choose the ‘Open Terminal Here’ option from the popup menu.
In the terminal, input the command wine mirror go full setup and press the Enter button.
A popup will appear with an Install button. Click on it to begin the installation of the application on your Linux PC.
After installation, launch the app and select the iOS tab on its home screen.
Ensure both your Apple device and Linux PC are connected to the same WiFi network.
On your iOS device, swipe down to access the Control Center. Here, tap on the Screen Mirroring option and choose your Linux PC from the list of available devices.
You’re all set! Begin streaming content from your Apple device to your Linux PC.

How to Install AirServer on Linux:

AirServer is another reliable choice for screen mirroring on Linux. Here’s how to set it up:

Open the Chrome browser on your Linux PC.
Head over to the official AirServer website and download the application.
Once downloaded, install and run the application.
Connect both your iOS device and Linux PC to the same WiFi network.
On your iOS device, open the Control Center and tap on the Screen Mirroring icon.
From the list of devices, select your Linux PC.
Voila! Your iOS screen should now be mirrored on your Linux PC.

How to Install UxPlay on Linux:

UxPlay offers a streamlined experience for users of Kubuntu and other Debian-based distributions. To install:

Download the source code from the UxPlay git repo. You can use the git clone command or opt for the download option available on the GitHub page’s right-hand side corner.
Once downloaded, execute the terminal and navigate to the path where the source code is located.
Build an executable named ‘uxplay’ within a build folder.
For ease of access, move the executable to /usr/bin so you can call it from any location.
With UxPlay set up, connect your iPhone or iPad to the same network as your Linux machine.
Swipe down from the upper right corner (or from the bottom edge for older devices) to access the control center on your iPhone or iPad.
Tap on the Screen Mirror option and select your Linux desktop environment from the list of recent devices.

By following these steps for each software, you can seamlessly integrate AirPlay functionality into your Linux system, ensuring smooth content sharing between Apple devices and Linux PCs.

Can I Screen Mirror from Linux to iOS/Mac:

Indeed, Linux users can mirror their screens to Apple devices. This is made possible through third-party software like Deskreen. This desktop application transforms any device equipped with a browser into a secondary screen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you share your Linux screen with Mac or iOS devices:

Getting Started: Launch your browser and navigate to the Deskreen website. From there, choose the Linux version and initiate the download.
Installation Process: After downloading, open the terminal on your Linux PC. Input the command sudo dpkg -i deskreen_2.0.3_amd64.deb to start the installation. Once installed, right-click on the .AppImage file, navigate to the Permissions tab, and ensure the “Allow executing file as program” option is checked.
Connection: Launch the Deskreen app and ensure both your Linux PC and Apple devices are on the same WiFi network. On your Apple device, open a browser and either input the IP address shown on the Deskreen app or scan the provided QR code. Grant permission by clicking the “Allow” button. Choose your preferred screen share mode, either “Entire Screen” or “Application Window”, and hit the “Confirm” button. Your Linux screen should now be mirrored to your Apple device.

AirPlay Alternatives for Linux:

While AirPlay is a proprietary feature of Apple, there are numerous third-party apps available for Linux that offer similar functionalities. These apps allow Linux users to both send and receive content similar to AirPlay. Some of the top-rated third-party apps compatible with AirPlay include:

Mkchromecast:

Mkchromecast stands out as one of the premier apps for casting and sharing content from Linux-based PCs. Not only can you share content from your Linux PC to devices like Mac, Windows, and Chromecast, but also to Sonos speakers. The Mkchromecast app offers features like Multi-room group playback and delivers high audio with a resolution of 24-bits/96kHz.

Gnomecast:

Gnomecast is equipped with a native Linux GUI, making it a go-to for casting content to Chromecast devices. The application is versatile, supporting both audio and video files. Users can stream a plethora of content, complete with appropriate subtitles. For those with 4K devices like the Chromecast Ultra, Gnomecast is capable of transferring 4K videos.

SoundWire:

SoundWire is a unique tool that focuses on the transfer of audio and video files between devices. With the capability to share content on up to 10 devices at once, it’s a robust solution for multi-device environments. Additionally, SoundWire users can share music from popular platforms like Spotify and iTunes, ensuring their favorite tunes play on their speakers of choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is Linux equivalent to AirPlay?

AirPlay has grown in popularity as a go-to solution for wireless content sharing across devices. However, for those familiar with Linux, you might wonder if there’s a counterpart in the open-source world. Enter UxPlay 1.65 and AirPlay-Mirror.

Both of these tools serve as the AirPlay-Audio server for Linux, bridging the gap between Apple’s exclusive system and platforms like Linux, macOS, Unix, and Windows. So, while AirPlay might dominate in Apple-centric environments, Linux users aren’t left in the dark.

Can I Screen Mirror from Linux?

For Linux enthusiasts looking to mirror their screens onto Apple devices, the answer is a resounding “Yes”. Mirroring your Linux screen to Apple devices isn’t just a dream; it’s a reality made possible through certain third-party apps.

These tools work diligently in the background to ensure seamless interaction between the two distinct systems. So whether you’re working on a presentation or just want to share some media, you can effortlessly project your Linux environment to your Apple devices.

What is the best screen mirroring app for Linux?

When searching for the optimal screen mirroring application for Linux, the landscape is teeming with choices. “Screen Cast” stands out as a remarkable free app that allows users to display their Android screen right on their Linux desktop. TeamViewer, a name synonymous with remote access, doubles as a screen mirroring app that’s compatible with not just Linux, but Windows and Mac as well.

Moreover, ApowerMirror and Anydesk further expand the list, offering flexibility and utility to users looking for robust mirroring solutions. Regardless of your specific needs, there’s likely a tool that fits the bill.

Can you AirPlay from Ubuntu?

Ubuntu, one of the most popular Linux distributions, isn’t one to be left out of the AirPlay scene. While AirPlay is natively an Apple technology, Ubuntu users can still get in on the action. With the help of third-party applications, transferring content from your Ubuntu system to an iOS device or showcasing your iOS screen on Ubuntu is entirely feasible. It’s a testament to the versatility and adaptability of open-source solutions and the Ubuntu ecosystem.

Is the VLC media player compatible with AirPlay?

VLC media player, a stalwart in the realm of multimedia players, has consistently innovated to keep up with user demands. As for compatibility with AirPlay, VLC doesn’t disappoint. It comes with built-in support for AirPlay, allowing users to screen mirror from iOS devices and Macs with ease. Whether you’re viewing a movie or sharing a presentation, VLC’s integration ensures that your content looks crisp and clear on any connected screen.

Conclusion:

In the vast universe of technology, the lines dividing platforms have long been perceived as boundaries, preventing seamless interaction between devices of different origins. The “How to AirPlay Linux” guide is a testament to human ingenuity, demonstrating that, with the right tools, even these boundaries can become mere road bumps.

While Apple’s AirPlay represents a closed system’s capabilities, Linux stands as an embodiment of open-source freedom. Bridging these two seemingly disparate worlds showcases not just a technical achievement but a philosophical triumph. It serves as a reminder that in the realm of technology, boundaries are often just illusions, waiting to be dispelled by the curious and the determined.