Fix Broadcasting Grayed Out on Samsung Smart TV | Troubleshooting Tips

Why Broadcasting May Be Grayed Out on Your Samsung TV

It can be frustrating when you try to access the broadcasting features on your Samsung smart TV, only to see a message saying something like "Broadcasting function is not available." There are several possible reasons why broadcasting may be grayed out or unavailable on your Samsung TV model.

App or Service No Longer Supported

Some older Samsung TVs came with pre-loaded apps or services that allowed you to broadcast content from your mobile device or computer to your TV screen. However, Samsung frequently stops supporting and updating these apps after a certain number of years. If the app required for broadcasting is no longer supported, the option will be grayed out in your menu.

Region Locking

Certain broadcasting apps and services are restricted by region. For example, the Miracast function may only be available in certain countries. If you imported your Samsung TV or moved to a different region, the broadcasting function may no longer work due to region locking.

Connecting to the Wrong Source

On some Samsung TVs, you have to first connect to the correct source like HDMI, WiFi or USB in order to enable broadcasting. If the TV isn't detecting the proper source connection, the broadcasting option will appear grayed out or unavailable.

Network or Internet Connection Issues

Most broadcasting features require an active internet connection. If your Samsung TV is not properly connected to your home network or the internet, you will not be able to access broadcasting. Check that your WiFi is working correctly and try reconnecting or troubleshooting your network.

Incompatible Device

The device you are trying to broadcast from may not be compatible with your TV. Older Samsung TVs often have limited compatibility and may only work with certain Samsung smartphones or tablets, for example. Verify that your device supports the broadcasting feature on your specific Samsung TV model.

Outdated Software

If it's been a while since your Samsung TV software was updated, broadcasting may not work properly or the option could be grayed out. Check your TV's menu settings for a way to update the software to the latest available version for your model.

How to Fix Broadcasting Not Available on Samsung TV

If broadcasting appears grayed out or unavailable on your Samsung TV, don't panic. Here are some steps you can take to try and resolve the issue:

1. Check for App Updates

If your TV came pre-loaded with a broadcasting app, see if there are any pending updates. Open the app, go to its settings or search for an update option in the TV's main settings menu. Installing the latest app version may fix broadcasting problems.

2. Change Connection Source

As mentioned above, you may need to connect to the proper source like HDMI or WiFi first. Switch between connection options and re-enable broadcasting to see if that solves the problem.

3. Connect to the Internet

Double check that your TV has a working high-speed internet connection via WiFi or Ethernet. Test loading web pages on the TV to confirm connectivity.

4. Re-pair Your Device

Unlink any devices currently paired to your TV under broadcasting settings, then re-pair your smartphone, tablet or computer. This may refresh the connection and enable broadcasting.

5. Reset App to Defaults

For Samsung TV broadcasting apps, open the app's settings and look for an option to reset or restore factory default settings. This may clear any bugs preventing broadcasting.

6. Update TV Software

Check if your TV has any important software updates pending. Carry out the update and check if broadcasting starts working after the TV reboots.

7. Contact Samsung Support

If you still can't get broadcasting to work after trying the above steps, contact Samsung Support online, by phone or via social media. Provide your TV model details and broadcasting issues, and ask for further troubleshooting assistance.

Alternative Broadcasting Options for Samsung TVs

If you find that broadcasting just won't work properly on your Samsung TV even after troubleshooting, don't despair. Here are a few alternative options you can use to wirelessly display or cast content from your phone, tablet or computer to your Samsung television:

Chromecast

A Chromecast device plugs into your TV's HDMI port and allows you to cast or mirror content from hundreds of apps on your personal device. Popular streaming and social apps like YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, Facebook and many more are Chromecast enabled.

Roku

Similar to Chromecast, Roku media players or sticks connect to your TV and enable wireless streaming and screen mirroring. Roku has an app called Roku Mobile that allows you to cast photos, videos and music from iOS or Android.

AirPlay

If you have an Apple device like an iPhone, iPad or MacBook, you can use AirPlay to wirelessly send content to your Samsung TV. This works for photos, videos, music, web pages, documents and more.

Miracast / Smart View

Many new Samsung TVs support Miracast or Smart View wireless casting technology. This allows you to mirror your Android or Windows screen directly to your TV - useful as an alternative to built-in broadcasting.

HDMI Cable

If you don't mind a wired connection, simply use an HDMI cable to display content from your laptop directly onto your Samsung TV screen. This avoids wireless casting or broadcasting entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Samsung TV Broadcasting

Why is the broadcasting function grayed out on my Samsung TV?

The most common reasons for grayed out broadcasting are an unsupported app or service, region locking, incorrect connection source, network issues, incompatible device, or outdated software. Try the troubleshooting steps listed above.

What devices can I broadcast from to a Samsung TV?

It depends on your model, but common options are Samsung phones/tablets, iPhones/iPads, Android devices, Windows computers and Chromebooks. Make sure your device is compatible.

How do I update the software on my Samsung Smart TV?

Go to Settings > Support > Software Update > Update Now on your TV remote. Follow the prompts to check for and install the latest software update from Samsung.

Why can't my Samsung TV find my phone when trying to broadcast?

Ensure WiFi is enabled on both devices and they are connected to the same network. Also try re-pairing the phone using your TV's broadcasting/Smart View settings menu.

Does broadcasting drain my Samsung TV or phone battery faster?

Yes, broadcasting requires more processor power and network usage on both TV and your device. Having both plugged into a power source is recommended.

Conclusion

With any luck, the troubleshooting tips in this article should help you resolve broadcasting not available or grayed out issues on your Samsung TV. Just take it step-by-step to identify the cause, then use an appropriate fix. Broadcasting provides a great way to share content from your personal device, so it's worth the effort to get it working properly. But if you still can't enable it, wireless casting with Chromecast, AirPlay or a similar alternative is a handy workaround to achieve the same end result.

FAQs

Why does my Samsung TV say "this function is not available" when I try to broadcast?

This error message indicates the broadcasting function is disabled or restricted on your Samsung TV model, likely due to an outdated or unsupported app. Try updating the related broadcasting apps and TV software.

How do I screen mirror my iPhone to Samsung TV?

Open the Smart View app on your Samsung TV, then swipe up from the bottom of your iPhone to open Control Center and tap Screen Mirroring. Select your TV name to connect and mirror.

Can I broadcast copyrighted content from my phone to Samsung TV?

Legally, broadcasting copyrighted content like movies and TV shows from your phone to the TV is prohibited without permission from the content owner. Only use broadcasting for personal, non-commercial use.

Why is Miracast not working on my Samsung TV?

If Miracast is grayed out or won't connect, ensure your device supports it, the TV's software is up to date, WiFi is connected with sufficient bandwidth, and you have re-paired the device.

Can I broadcast live TV to my Samsung TV?

If you have a live TV streaming subscription, some apps allow broadcasting live channels to Samsung TVs. Check with your provider for supported apps like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, AT&T TV, fuboTV and others.