There are a few reasons why this message comes up.
Not so simple reason…
If you have a screen on the phone, that does not allow recording. For example, zoom, or netflix. Then you will see this message. It really means that:
- Screen mirror has detected the phone – or you would not see the window.
- there is no video stream coming from the phone
There are zoom sessions that can be viewed, but if the presenter’s policy does not allow recording, the screen will not show. This may be true of any application
Simple reasons:
- The iPhone screen has got locked. Sometimes just tapping the iPhone screen is all that is needed.
- The USB connectivity is not working well – see USB Connectivity issues
- Continuity camera is enabled on your iPhone, disconnect the continuity camera on the iphone screen, and unplug/replug the iPhone
- Something else is wrong – see below
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.
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.
- If continuity camera is on, dismiss it, and unplug and replug the iPhone
- 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
How can I make Screen Mirror better?
Please send me email at tools@toolbunch.com. I had a form here earlier but the amount of spam I have been getting is unbelievable. Email is now the only way to reach me.
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.