8 Methods to Fix ESPN Not Working on AirPlay/Screen Mirroring
Common Causes: ESPN may not work via AirPlay due to server outage, internet connection, outdated app & firmware, VPN, etc.
How to Fix: Connect the device to a stable internet, restart your Wi-Fi, update AirPlay compatible TV, Update the app, delete and install ESPN, and reset the TV.
ESPN is a dedicated app for streaming live sports, getting instant scores, live news, highlights, and more. With an ESPN+ subscription, you can watch live NFL, NBA, MLB, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, and more live matches. ESPN+ subscribers can also stream TV channels like ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNU, and SECN.
However, some users have reported that sometimes ESPN AirPlay not working perfectly. This problem can be quickly resolved by following these troubleshooting methods:
Why ESPN Not Working on AirPlay
- The ESPN app fails to connect with the server.
- The ESPN app or your device is running with an outdated version.
- Both devices are not connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- A slower connection or unstable internet.
- A VPN is connected.
How to Fix ESPN AirPlay Not Working
The following troubleshooting methods can help you fix ESPN AirPlay if it is not responding. The same fixes can also help resolve ESPN airplay not working on LG TV and Samsung TVs.
1. Check the WiFi Network
AirPlay is a wireless technology that allows you to stream audio, video, and photos from your Apple devices to a compatible receiver. To use AirPlay, both your device and the receiver must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
If you have a slow or unstable internet connection, you may experience problems with AirPlay. If so, you should address the issue with your Wi-Fi router immediately.
In addition, you should disconnect any unwanted devices from your Wi-Fi network while using AirPlay. This will free up bandwidth and improve AirPlay performance.
Tip: To AirPlay ESPN titles without limitations, turn off Airplane mode on your casting device.
2. Check Device Compatibility
If you cannot connect your device to AirPlay, it is likely due to a device incompatibility issue. Before installing the app on your smartphone, ensure it is AirPlay compatible.
Also, check if AirPlay supports your Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible smart TV. To do this, open the Settings app on your Apple or smart TV and select AirPlay. If AirPlay is not listed, then your device is not supported.
Finally, ensure your AirPlay receiver and Apple device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Restart the WiFi Router
If you have identified that the problem is with your Wi-Fi router, restart it immediately. This will clear any unexpected errors causing the problem and restore stable internet connectivity.
Make sure that you have at least 5-10 Mbps of internet speed to stream ESPN HD content without interruptions. You can test your internet speed by visiting the website fast.com from your device.
Once you have restarted your Wi-Fi router and confirmed that you have sufficient internet speed, check to see if the problem with ESPN not working on AirPlay has been resolved.
4. Update the ESPN App
It is important to update your device regularly for the latest features, bug fixes, and security updates. Updating your device can also improve the performance of your apps and protect them from unknown errors.
To update the ESPN app on iPhone or iPad:
- Open the App Store.
- Search for ESPN and select the app. If there is an update available, tap Update to install it.
- Once the Update is complete, open the ESPN app and check if AirPlay works appropriately.
5. Check for ESPN Server Outage
If you cannot stream ESPN even though your Wi-Fi is stable, the ESPN servers may be down. In this case, you will see a black screen instead of the AirPlay content.
To check if the ESPN servers are down, you can visit the Downdetector website and see the outage report for the ESPN app. If there is an outage report, you will know that the problem is not with your device or internet connection. You can also try refreshing the ESPN app or restarting your device.
6. Update Apple TV or Smart TV
After updating your iOS device, it is essential also to update your Apple TV or Smart TV. This will ensure that you have the latest security updates and bug fixes.
To update your Apple TV:
- Open the Settings app and select System.
- Select Software Updates and choose Update Software. If there is an update available, select Download and Install.
- Do not turn off your Apple TV until the update is complete and the device restarts.
Once your Apple TV is updated, connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as your iOS device. Then, you can use AirPlay to stream content from your iOS device to your Apple TV.
7. Uninstall and Reinstall the ESPN App
Sometimes, a bug in the ESPN app can cause AirPlay to stop working. This is rare, but it can happen. The only solution to fix this error is to uninstall and reinstall the ESPN app. Make sure to install the ESPN app from Apple’s official App Store. Once you have reinstalled the app, check if you can AirPlay ESPN to your Apple TV or other smart TV.
Here are the steps on how to uninstall and reinstall the ESPN app:
- Open the App Store on your device.
- Search for “ESPN” and tap on the app icon.
- Tap on “Uninstall” and then confirm.
- Once the app has been uninstalled, open the App Store again and search for “ESPN.”
- Tap on the app icon and then tap on “Install.”
- Once the app has been installed, please open it and try to AirPlay content to your Apple TV or other smart TV.
8. Reset Apple TV
If the above fixes do not work, you can reset your Apple TV to factory settings. This will erase all your data and settings, but it may fix the problem with AirPlay.
To reset your Apple TV, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your Apple TV.
- Select System.
- Select Reset.
- Select Reset Apple TV.
- Enter your Apple TV password if prompted.
- Select Reset again to confirm.
Once your Apple TV has been reset, it will start in its default settings. You will need to set up your Apple TV again, but you should be able to AirPlay content from your iOS device to your Apple TV once it has been set up.