Update Your Vizio SmartCast TV to Get AirPlay 2 and HomeKit
Vizio SmartCast TVs are known for their built-in Chromecast support, making them available to Android users. Now, a host of Vizio smart TVs are also eligible for the SmartCast 3.0 update, which will bring support for AirPlay 2 and HomeKit, which is generating some love for iOS and Mac users.
AirPlay 2 allows users to stream local content from their Apple mobile devices and Macs to TV screens, including multi-room streaming (if you have more than one compatible device). HomeKit lets you control your Smart TV and other smart devices with Siri or with your iPhone or iPad as a remote, and you can integrate SmartCast TV into your home automation routines via the iOS or macOS Home app.
These new additions will be part of a free firmware update available for the following Vizio SmartCast TV lines:
- VIZIO P-Series Quantum X (2019)
- VIZIO P-Series Quantum (2019 and 2018)
- VIZIO P-Series (2018, 2017 and 2016)
- VIZIO M-Series Quantum (2019)
- VIZIO M-Series (2018, 2017 and 2016)
- VIZIO E-Series (UHD models 2018, 2017 and 2016)
- VIZIO V-series (2019)
- VIZIO D-series (2018)
To install the free firmware update, first make sure your TV is connected to the Internet – ideally over a wired connection rather than wireless to speed up downloads. Your TV’s user interface will notify you of pending updates, but you can also check for updates via the TV’s settings menu. Open the main menu and scroll down to System. Then select the “Check for Updates” option to do just that. You can also check your TV’s firmware version number using the System Information option below it.
You will need to turn off your TV as part of the update process, and it may take a few minutes for your system to update. Don’t worry if you forget and accidentally turn on your TV again while installing new firmware. It will not damage your TV; it just pauses the update until you turn off the TV again.