Despite being one of the best TV streaming services (opens in new tab), Apple removed Safari support after the 3rd generation of Apple TV meaning you can’t install a web browser on the latest Apple TVs. However, there are some ways of still browsing the internet on your Apple TV and therefore the big screen of your TV. It might not rival the experience found on the best web browsers (opens in new tab), but it can still add a little more versatility to your Apple TV. Here’s how to do so.
How to use a web browser on Apple TV using AirPlay
The most effective way of viewing a web browser through your Apple TV is to use AirPlay. AirPlay is Apple’s feature that makes it easy to stream many forms of media from your iPhone or iPad. By doing so, you can basically mirror what’s on that screen and display it on your Apple TV. Here’s how to do it: By using AirPlay, you get the same experience as if you were browsing the web with your iPhone or iPad. That means you can type in web addresses or search for things by using the onscreen keyboard on either device, which is far easier than typing anything in using the Apple TV remote.
How to use a web browser on Apple TV using a third-party app
It’s also possible to ‘cast’ websites to your Apple TV using a third-party app. Apps like AirBrowser (opens in new tab) cost money but are easily available through the App Store. By using it, you can often browse websites that AirPlay is not compatible with, giving you more functionality. That’s because it’s able to get around any issues with streaming for copyright reasons – something that isn’t really a legal issue if you are streaming from one device to another in the same room or building. For many users though, AirPlay is an easier and cheaper solution. If you do want to use AirBrowser, here’s how to use it:
How to use a web browser on Apple TV using your Mac
It’s also possible to stream the activities of your Mac over to your Apple TV. It follows a fairly similar process to using your iPhone or iPad, but is slightly different. Here’s what to do:
Will there ever be an official Apple TV web browser?
Since Apple removed Safari from a much earlier version of Apple TV, it seems fairly unlikely that we’ll see an official web browser again. Much of that is because it would be tricky to use. While the Apple TV remote is fine for browsing content, it generally defaults to encouraging you to use your iPhone or iPad to enter any long strings of characters, ruining the point of using the Apple TV alone. Ultimately, your best web browser on Apple TV experience is to use AirPlay or similar so you can browse the internet on your TV display while enjoying the convenience of typing on your iPhone, iPad or Mac. Read more: Best TVs Best Blu-ray players Best web browsers
