How to Find or Reset Your AirPlay Password

If you’re locked out of AirPlay or just can’t remember the password your Apple TV or smart TV is asking for, this guide walks you through finding it on your devices and resetting it when needed. You’ll learn where AirPlay passwords live, how to change them, and what to do when the usual fixes don’t work.

What You’ll Need

An Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) signed into the same Apple ID as the device showing the password prompt
Access to the settings menu on the device that’s asking for the AirPlay password (Apple TV, smart TV, or receiver)
The remote that came with that device, or the corresponding app on your phone
A few minutes — most changes take effect immediately

Step-by-Step

Finding Your Current AirPlay Password

On Apple TV (4th gen or later): Go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit. The password field shows either “On Screen” (meaning a code appears on the TV when you try to AirPlay) or a specific passcode you set earlier. If it says “On Screen,” there’s no static password — the TV generates a new one each time you connect.
On a Mac (as a receiver): Open System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS) > General > Sharing > AirPlay Receiver. Click the info (i) icon next to it. The password field shows either “Everyone” (no password) or a specific code. If it’s blank, AirPlay on your Mac doesn’t require a password.
On a smart TV or receiver: Look in the TV’s network or screen-mirroring settings. The exact menu varies by brand (Samsung, LG, Sony, etc.), but it’s usually under Network, General, or Screen Mirroring. The password is often labeled “AirPlay Password” or “Screen Mirroring Passcode.”
Check your router’s device list: If you can’t find the password in the device menus, log into your router’s admin page (usually at 192.168.1.1 or similar) and look for the device’s IP address. This won’t show the password but confirms the device is on your network — a common reason for AirPlay prompts.

Resetting Your AirPlay Password

On Apple TV: Go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit > Password. Choose “On Screen” to have a random code generated each time, or select “Enter Password” to type your own. Use the on-screen keyboard or the Remote app on your iPhone.
On a Mac: In System Settings > General > Sharing > AirPlay Receiver, click the info icon. Change the dropdown from “Everyone” to “Only Users on This Mac” or “Everyone” again. If you want a password, select “Require Password” and enter a new one. Click Done.
On a smart TV: Navigate to the AirPlay or screen mirroring settings. Look for “Password” or “Security” and select “Reset” or “Change.” Enter a new 4-8 digit code using the TV’s remote. Some TVs only allow “On Screen” mode, which means the password changes every time.
Restart the device: After changing the password, restart the Apple TV, Mac, or smart TV. This clears any cached credentials and forces all connected devices to re-authenticate with the new password.
Forget the device on your iPhone/iPad: On your iOS device, go to Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff (or AirPlay on older versions) and turn off AirPlay. Then turn it back on. This resets the local connection state.

Common Mistakes

Assuming “On Screen” means a fixed password: If the setting is “On Screen,” the password changes every time you connect. You can’t “find” it — you have to look at the TV when prompted.
Confusing Wi-Fi password with AirPlay password: AirPlay uses its own passcode, separate from your Wi-Fi network key. Entering the Wi-Fi password won’t work.
Changing the wrong setting: On some TVs, the AirPlay password is under “Screen Mirroring,” not “AirPlay.” Check both menus if you can’t find it.
Not restarting after a change: Some devices cache the old password until a restart. If you changed it and still get prompted, reboot the target device.

Tips

Use “On Screen” for security: A rotating code is safer than a static one, especially in shared spaces. It also avoids the problem of forgetting a custom password.
Keep your Apple ID consistent: If you’re using an Apple TV, make sure your iPhone and the Apple TV are signed into the same Apple ID. This often bypasses the password prompt entirely for trusted devices.
Write down custom passwords: If you set a custom AirPlay password, store it in your password manager. It’s easy to forget a code you only use occasionally.
Update your device software: AirPlay password bugs are often fixed in software updates. Keep your Apple TV, Mac, and TV firmware current.

Troubleshooting

You still get a password prompt after resetting: First, restart both the sending device (iPhone/iPad/Mac) and the receiving device. Then, on the receiving device, turn AirPlay off and on again. If that fails, reset the receiving device’s network settings (on Apple TV: Settings > System > Reset > Reset Network Settings).

The password field is grayed out: This usually means the device is in a restricted mode (like a school or hotel). You’ll need the administrator’s permission to change it. On a Mac, check if the AirPlay Receiver service is enabled — if not, you can’t set a password.

You don’t see the AirPlay password option at all: The device may not support AirPlay password protection. Older smart TVs often only offer “On Screen” or no password at all. Check the manufacturer’s support page for your specific model.

AirPlay works but asks for a password every time: Go to your iPhone’s Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff and toggle AirPlay off and on. Also, on the receiving device, look for a “Remember This Device” or “Allow This Device” option and enable it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the AirPlay password stored on my iPhone?

Your iPhone doesn’t store AirPlay passwords in a viewable list. It saves them in the keychain automatically. If you need to see it, you’d have to use a Mac’s Keychain Access app, but only if the password was saved there. In most cases, you can’t retrieve it — you have to reset it on the receiving device.

Can I use the same AirPlay password for multiple devices?

Yes, but each device has its own setting. You can set the same custom password on your Apple TV, Mac, and smart TV if you want. There’s no central sync for AirPlay passwords.

Why does my Apple TV show a code instead of asking for a password?

That’s the “On Screen” mode. It’s a security feature that generates a random 4-digit code each time you connect. It’s not a password you can change — it’s temporary.

Does resetting my Apple TV clear the AirPlay password?

Yes, a full factory reset will clear all AirPlay settings, including the password. After the reset, you’ll need to set up AirPlay again from scratch.

Can I AirPlay without a password?

Yes. On most devices, you can set AirPlay to “Everyone” or “No Password” in the settings. This is convenient at home but less secure in public places.

Why does my TV ask for a password when my iPhone says “AirPlay is available”?

That’s normal. The iPhone detects the device, but the TV still requires authentication. The password prompt appears on the TV screen, not on your iPhone. Look at the TV to see the code or enter the password there.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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