How To Stream Audio From An Android Projector To A HomePod Mini Using AirPlay
So you’ve picked up an Android-powered projector, great for streaming, movies, or gaming, but now you want to take the audio experience up a notch by playing it through your HomePod mini. Here’s the challenge: Android doesn’t natively support AirPlay, Apple’s proprietary wireless protocol. But with the right tools, you can bridge the gap and stream audio from your projector to your HomePod.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know, including app recommendations, setup steps, alternative methods, and what to expect in terms of latency and compatibility.
Can You AirPlay From Android to HomePod?
Yes, with help.
While Android doesn’t support AirPlay out of the box, you can install third-party apps that enable AirPlay audio streaming from Android devices to AirPlay receivers like the HomePod mini.
Think of these apps as translators, they let Android “speak” AirPlay so your HomePod can “hear” it.
Recommended Apps To Enable AirPlay From Android
These apps are purpose-built to stream audio (and in some cases, video) from Android to AirPlay-compatible devices.
1. AirMusic (Highly Recommended)
Best for: Seamless background audio streaming from any Android app.
Works with: AirPlay 1 and 2, Sonos, Chromecast, DLNA, and more.
Price: ~$5.99 (free trial available with noise overlay)
How to Set It Up:
- Download AirMusic from the Google Play Store.
- On first launch, it will scan for AirPlay receivers (your HomePod must be on the same Wi-Fi network).
- You may need to grant root access or use the app’s special Audio Capture method (non-root) to stream system-wide audio.
- Start playback on your projector (e.g. Netflix, YouTube).
- Select your HomePod mini as the target in AirMusic.
- Audio streams wirelessly with low latency.
AirMusic is widely praised for stability, compatibility, and its ability to work with a huge range of audio sources.
2. AirPin(PRO)
Best for: Advanced users looking for a broader set of streaming protocols.
Price: ~$4.99
How to Set It Up:
- Install AirPin(PRO) from the Play Store.
- Launch the app and scan for available AirPlay receivers.
- Set your HomePod as the output device.
- Play your media as usual; audio routes to the HomePod.
A bit more technical, but offers excellent compatibility with AirPlay, DLNA, and Miracast.
3. HiFy (Alternative Option)
Best for: Streaming music from apps like Spotify or Tidal.
Note: May not support full system audio.
How to Set It Up:
- Download HiFy from hifizone.org/hify or the Play Store (some versions may require sideloading).
- It detects the currently playing audio and allows you to route it to your HomePod.
- Less ideal for video/audio sync, but excellent for music.
Important Notes
Does HomePod Mini Support AirPlay 2 Only?
Yes, the HomePod mini supports AirPlay 2, but it remains backward compatible with AirPlay 1. Most Android AirPlay apps stream via AirPlay 1, and the HomePod mini accepts it just fine.
Can You Stream Video and Audio Together?
Not easily. Android → AirPlay video streaming is rare and unstable. These tools focus on audio only. If you’re playing video through the projector, and audio via HomePod, latency might occur (audio delay). Apps like AirMusic offer buffer controls to try to sync this.
Pro Tips for Smooth Streaming
- Use the same Wi-Fi network: Your projector and HomePod must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Avoid network congestion: AirPlay is sensitive to Wi-Fi interference.
- Minimize app switching: Some AirPlay streams reset if you switch apps or the projector sleeps.
- Test latency with a short video clip and adjust playback delay in the app if available.
Alternative Method: Use a Bluetooth-to-AirPlay Bridge
If the apps don’t work reliably, or you want a more permanent setup, consider this hardware method:
Hardware Option: Use a Bluetooth Adapter + AirPlay Bridge
- Connect a Bluetooth transmitter to the Android projector (if it has a headphone jack or USB-C audio out).
- Pair it with a Bluetooth-to-AirPlay bridge, like a Raspberry Pi running ShairportSync or a third-party AirPlay receiver (e.g. Belkin SoundForm Connect).
- The bridge transmits the Bluetooth audio over AirPlay to your HomePod.
This adds cost and setup complexity but can be more reliable in a home theater setting.
Summary: Best Choice for Most Users
| Method | Best For | Root Required | Sync Capability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirMusic | Full-system audio streaming | Optional | Yes | $5.99 |
| AirPin(PRO) | Power users | No | Limited | $4.99 |
| HiFy | Music only | No | No | Free / varies |
| Bluetooth-to-AirPlay bridge | Permanent setups | No | Yes (with tuning) | Varies |
Final Word
If you’re looking to AirPlay audio from an Android projector to a HomePod mini, AirMusic is your best bet. It’s reliable, supports a range of media apps, and offers the closest thing to native AirPlay support on Android. Just be mindful of latency if you’re watching video, and test before going all-in.
Let me know what projector you’re using or what apps you’re streaming from, I can offer more tailored settings or advice.