There are a few reasons why this message comes up.
- You did not give the Screen Mirror app permission to use the camera
- Your iPhone screen is off, or the Screen is Locked
- The USB connectivity is not working well – see USB Connectivity issues
- MacOS camera system gets confused and thinks phone is always attached
The simplest way to try it again is to unplug and replug over USB. The fact that you are getting this message means that the USB connection has worked, and the Screen Mirror app has recognized that an iPhone/iPad has been connected.
I haven’t figured this out clearly yet. Usually rebooting the Mac solves it, but that is such a crappy solution. It usually means that the USB/Camera system in the Mac is not working. Will you help me figure this out? Will you get on a call and help me debug? tools@toolbunch.com
Give camera permission to the Screen Mirror App
On the Mac, go to
System Preferences | Privacy & Security | Camera
Make sure that Screen Mirror app is checked.
iPhone/iPad screen is off
There are some users who have reported this. I have seen it occur more often when the phone is an iPhone 11 or higher. There are two solutions.
- Unplug and Plug in the iPhone/iPad over USB. Sometimes this will resolve the problem.
- Reboot the iPhone, this usually solves the issue
- Reboot the Mac, this is usually needed if the “iPhone/iPad screen is off” message comes whether you plug in the phone or not.
It is not often that this happens, This is a solution if you run into the issue. This is not an issue with the Screen Mirror app but with the iPhone software. Other applications report this issue too.
Apple has the same suggestions.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/102587
Your message has been sent
I have heard from users that my App is complicated to install. Installing Screen Mirror is like installing new hardware, has procedure, and can go wrong. The app does work; please get in touch if you have any trouble. I am continuously updating my help pages please let me know about issues you face.