To mirror a compatible Android phone to Windows 11, first install the Wireless Display optional feature on the PC and open the Wireless Display app or the Projecting to this PC page. Then open the phone’s Smart View, Screen Mirroring, or Miracast control and select the PC. This works only when both devices support Miracast; many Google Pixel phones use Google Cast instead and will not find a Windows Miracast receiver.
How to Cast an Android Screen to Windows 11
Android manufacturers use different names for wireless screen mirroring. Samsung commonly calls it Smart View, while other phones may use Screen Cast, Wireless Display, Screen Mirroring, or Miracast. A button named Cast is not proof of Miracast support because it may connect only to Google Cast devices.
Step 1: Confirm Miracast Support
Check the phone manufacturer’s support information for Miracast or wireless-display support. On the PC, press Windows + K. If Windows says the device does not support receiving or connecting to a wireless display, update its graphics and Wi-Fi drivers and check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 2: Install Wireless Display on Windows 11
Open Settings > System > Projecting to this PC. If Windows says the Wireless Display optional feature is required, select Optional features. Next to Add an optional feature, select View features, search for Wireless Display, select it, and complete the installation.
Windows needs an internet connection to download this optional feature. On a managed work or school PC, an administrator may block installation or wireless projection.
Step 3: Configure Projecting to This PC
Return to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC. Choose when the PC is available for projection and whether Windows should ask for permission or a PIN. Less restrictive settings are convenient at home, while a confirmation prompt helps prevent unwanted connections.
Step 4: Open the Receiver on the PC
Open Start, search for Wireless Display, and launch the receiver app. On some Windows versions, the receiving interface may still be labeled Connect. Leave the app open while the phone searches.
Step 5: Start Mirroring on Android
Open Quick Settings on the phone and select its mirroring control, such as Smart View or Screen Mirroring. If it is not in Quick Settings, look under Settings > Connected devices, Connection preferences, or the display/connection section named by the manufacturer.
Step 6: Select the Windows PC
Choose the PC’s name from the phone’s device list. Accept the connection request on Windows and enter or confirm a PIN if your projection settings require one.
Step 7: Stop Mirroring Safely
When finished, open the mirroring control on the phone and choose Disconnect or Stop mirroring. You can also close the Wireless Display receiver on the PC.
Do Both Devices Need the Same Wi-Fi Network?
Miracast can create a direct wireless connection, so it is not the same as streaming through a normal Wi-Fi network. Keep Wi-Fi enabled on both devices and place them close together. Some manufacturer implementations work more reliably when both devices are also associated with the same local network.
Why the Windows PC Does Not Appear
- The phone uses Google Cast only: A Chromecast-style Cast menu cannot normally connect to Windows Wireless Display. This is common on Pixel phones.
- Wireless Display is missing: Install the optional feature and open its receiver before searching again.
- The PC cannot receive Miracast: The Wi-Fi adapter, graphics hardware, or drivers may lack the required support.
- Projection is disabled: Review Settings > System > Projecting to this PC and allow connections.
- A VPN or firewall interferes: Disconnect a VPN temporarily if permitted and check whether organization security policy blocks projection.
- The connection is unstable: Move the devices closer, reduce wireless interference, and restart both devices.
Windows 10 Notes
Windows 10 also uses the Wireless Display optional feature and a receiving app historically called Connect. The settings layout differs, but the phone still needs Miracast support. Standard Microsoft support for Windows 10 ended October 14, 2025. A PC that remains on it should qualify for Extended Security Updates or be moved to a supported Windows release.
Alternatives When Miracast Is Not Available
Use a method supported by both devices. Options can include the manufacturer’s Windows companion software, Phone Link features available to supported Android models, a USB-based mirroring tool from a trusted provider, or a Google Cast receiver such as a compatible TV or streaming device. Avoid granting screen-capture, accessibility, or USB-debugging permissions to an unknown mirroring app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Google Pixel mirror directly to Windows Wireless Display?
Many Pixel models use Google Cast and do not provide native Miracast transmission, so they usually cannot connect to the Windows Wireless Display receiver. Use a compatible Google Cast target or another trusted mirroring method.
Can I control the phone from the PC while mirroring?
Miracast primarily sends the phone’s display and audio. Remote control is not guaranteed. Some manufacturer integrations or supported Phone Link devices provide additional control features.
Why is the picture delayed?
Wireless encoding and interference add latency. Move the devices closer, close demanding apps, update drivers, and avoid using wireless mirroring for activities that require instant response.
Does screen mirroring use mobile data?
The Miracast link itself is a local wireless connection. Apps displayed on the phone can still use Wi-Fi or cellular data to load online content.
Can I mirror protected streaming video?
Some streaming services block or limit mirrored playback because of content-protection rules. A black screen does not necessarily mean that the wireless connection failed.
Summary
Install Wireless Display, configure Projecting to this PC, open the receiver, and connect through the Android phone’s Miracast-compatible mirroring control. Check compatibility first: Google Cast and Miracast are different systems, and a phone that supports only Google Cast will not appear as a Windows wireless-display source.