While we can’t deny the convenience of streaming your media and mirroring between compatible devices, there are instances where you may be trying to figure out how to stop AirPlay. This could be in order to prevent accidental streaming, protect privacy, or regain control of media playback on your device. However, stopping AirPlay can sometimes be confusing due to its integration across apps and device settings. Fortunately you are here. Let’s simplify the process for you.
How to Stop AirPlay on iPhone/iPad
1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open the Control Center. On older devices, swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap the Screen Mirroring icon (two overlapping rectangles).
3. Select Stop Mirroring at the bottom of the list to disconnect from the AirPlay session.
Stop AirPlay Via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
1. Open Settings, then go to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
2. Toggle off Wi-Fi or Bluetooth temporarily to disconnect from AirPlay devices that rely on these connections.
How to Disable Automatic AirPlay
You can stop AirPlay from Connecting Automatically by disabling. Here’s how:
1. Open Settings: Start by opening the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Select General: Scroll down and tap on General.
3. Choose AirPlay & Handoff: Select AirPlay & Handoff from the list.
4. Adjust Automatic AirPlay: Tap on Automatically AirPlay to TVs or Automatically AirPlay.
5. Select Preference:
- Never: Choose this option to completely disable automatic AirPlay connections.
- Ask: Select this if you want your iPhone to prompt you before connecting to an AirPlay device.
- Automatic: Leave this setting if you prefer automatic connections, but this is what you’re trying to disable.
How to Stop AirPlay on MacBook
1. Click the Control Center icon in the top-right corner of your Mac’s menu bar.
If you’re using macOS Monterey or later, this is where you’ll find the AirPlay options.
For MacOS Big Sur 11.0 or earlier, click the AirPlay Icon from the Menu Bar.
2. Select Screen Mirroring.
3. From the list of connected displays, click on the display you’re currently mirroring to. This will disconnect and turn off AirPlay.
Turn Off Screen Mirroring via Display Preferences
1. Open the Control Center and select Screen Mirroring.
2. Click Display Preferences from the menu.
3. In the Built-In Retina Display window, find the AirPlay Display menu at the bottom.
4. Select Off to disable AirPlay.
Disable AirPlay Receiver
1. Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of the menu bar.
2. Select System Settings (or System Preferences in older macOS versions).
3. Go to Sharing.
4. Find the AirPlay Receiver option and toggle it off. This prevents your Mac from receiving AirPlay content from other devices25.
Alternative Method: Turn Off the TV
If you’re mirroring to a TV, simply turning off the TV will automatically disconnect AirPlay on your Mac. With this method, you can quickly stop AirPlay sessions and manage its settings on your Mac.
Final Thoughts
If you’re having trouble stopping AirPlay on your device, ensure you’re not running multiple sessions from different apps at once, and verify that the device you’re streaming to isn’t locked in AirPlay mode. Also, check that your Apple device is up to date with the latest iOS or macOS version. Software updates often include important stability improvements, performance optimizations, and fixes for known AirPlay issues.
