Telenor Media

It’s easy to lose track of all the stuff you’ve purchased through the Google Play Store over time. Maybe you liked an app in the past, but you’re not sure which app it was, and you want to download it again. Or you just want to recommend an app to a friend, and now you can’t seem to find it.

Whatever the reason, Google makes it simple to view a list of your purchases. In this article, we’ll talk about how to view your purchase history on both Android devices and PC.

How to View Google Play Purchase History on an Android Device

Seeing your Google Play purchase history on an Android Device is pretty straightforward. Here’s how:

1. Open the Google Play Store app.
   


2. Tap the “Menu” button on the home screen.
   


3. Choose “Account.”
   


4. Select “Purchase History” to view your past Google Play purchases.
   

Item names and purchase dates can be found in the list. The cost is also displayed to the right. Zero-balanced applications are those you tried for free but canceled before they could charge you. Clicking on the View button next to an app will take you to its Google Play page. You may either launch or remove the program from this location.

The option to set a budget may be found at the very top of the “Purchase History” tab. This function will come in handy if you’re worried about blowing your app budget. Set a monthly budget by selecting the Set Budget option and inputting the desired amount. Afterward, Google Play will show you how much money you’ve spent to this point on the app.

How to View Google Play Purchase History on a PC

You can also use your web browser on your PC to access the Google Play Store. Here’s how to check your purchase history on a PC:

1. Navigate to the Google Play website using a web browser.
   


2. If asked, sign in to your Google Play account. You’ll be sent to the Google Play home screen.
   


3. On the left side of the screen, click “Account.”
   


4. In the menu near the top of the screen, select “Order History.”
   

In the order history, you’ll see your Google Play purchase history along with information that you’d typically see on your Android device. Viewable information includes a list of past app purchases and prices for the apps.

Like accessing your purchase history on an Android device, you’ll be able to see all your apps, including the zero-balanced ones. Zero-balanced apps are ones you tested for free but canceled before they could bill you for their use of your credit card information. You may access an app’s Google Play page by clicking the View icon next to it.

You’ll also see the ability to create a budget. Choose the Set Budget option and enter the amount of money you want to spend each month to take control of your app spending.

Another way to see your purchase history is to use your Gmail account.

In your Gmail account, you may view a history of purchases you’ve made by typing “purchases” in the Gmail search box. You should be able to discover all of your Play Store purchases in your inbox because each transaction generates an email notification.

Additional FAQs

Can I Clear My Purchase History?

Google Play purchases and subscriptions cannot be deleted from your purchase history or your Google Play account.

How Can I “Pass” an App Without Re-Buying It?

A refund can be requested if an app is uninstalled from the Play Store and reinstalled. Or you can subscribe to a Google Play Pass. To do so, the steps are:

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet.

2. Start a free trial or sign up for a subscription on the left-hand menu by clicking “Menu” and then “Play Pass.”

3. Check the price and your payment option.

4. Subscribe by pressing the “Subscribe” button.

It is possible to form a family group, assuming you can do so. Go to the “Set up” button under “Welcome to Play Pass” on the main screen to get started.

Know Your Apps

With these methods, you’ll be able to have a better overview of your apps and spending. This will help you to manage your expenses when it comes to apps. You can also go to the Google Payments Center to see all your purchases. However, you won’t be able to see the apps you got for free or canceled before the end of a free trial.

Do you keep track of your Google Play purchases? Have you ever forgotten a name of an app you’ve got? Let us know in the comment section below!

Hundreds of millions of people have dived into the “gig-economy” by filling orders for Instacart. Maybe you’ve been working at it for a while but it’s not paying off as you hoped. Perhaps you can’t get more batches on Instacart so you’re ready to quit.

Fortunately, you don’t have to give up on Instacart as your side hustle. Keep reading to learn how to get enough batches to keep your pockets full.

How to Get More Batches

As an independent contractor, your goal is to find the keys to success in your field. This article tells how other Instacart shoppers get more batches. You’ll learn the importance of the Instacart rating system and how it works. Also, we’ve included some “dos” and “don’ts” for making more money with Instacart.

How the Instacart Shopper Rating System Works

Your success as an Instacart shopper totally depends on your ratings. Ratings are calculated using several factors, such as your availability and customer comments. Your ratings make or break your income from Instagram shopping. Therefore, it is important that you understand how the Instacart rating system works.

The main points to remember about Instacart shopper ratings include:

• A 5-star rating system determines batch assignments.


• The ratings primarily come from customer scores on the customer Instacart app.


• The average of your last 100 orders is used to compute the 5-star rating.


• Rating cycles re-start every 100 orders.

Each rating is assigned a point. In other words, a 5-star rating equals 5 points, and so on. Your points are added when you make 100 deliveries. The total is divided by the number of ratings you received in those one hundred deliveries. This number is your average rating.

Simply stated, shoppers with the highest ratings get more batches. Low ratings mean fewer batches. Consistently low ratings could mean dismissal.

There are some negative ratings that Instacart will not factor into your average. Usually, the negative is for a reason that was beyond your control. Among these reasons:

• Items were out of stock


• Power outages


• Severe weather


• Your lowest score is always forgiven

Your score average determines your overall shopper rating from excellent to poor. The Instacart algorithm automatically prioritizes the highest-ranking shoppers for batch offers.

Improving Your Rating

You don’t have to leave your rating to chance. Commit to becoming proactive in pulling up your rating numbers. Your effort will pay off many times over in the form of a bigger check.

Find Busy Stores

Instacart gets more business in areas with the highest delivery requests. To meet that demand, the company assigns more shoppers to the area. You can increase your chances of getting more batches based on your location when a batch comes into the system.

Follow these steps to get in position:

1. Open your Instacart Shopping App.


2. Go to “Map View.”


3. Search for the busiest stores (indicated with colored circles).


4. Drive to an area within one mile of a busy store.


5. Go online to show your location and availability.

Shoppers that are within a mile of high-demand stores have a higher chance of seeing available batches. Moving your vehicle to an area near the so-called “hot spots” can maximize your earnings.

Meet Consumer Demands

Instacart expands its services based on unmet customer needs. For instance, if many customers request delivery of items such as beauty supplies, sporting goods, and electronics, Instagram will contract with retailers that supply these items.

Make yourself available for more customer requests by:

1. Shopping on Sundays when customer demand is the highest.


2. Taking the alcohol certification course to deliver liquor in alcohol-enabled states.


3. Using a larger vehicle for delivery, if possible, so you can accept larger batches.

Your batches will increase with how much more you offer. Keep looking out for ways to unlock the types of batch types you can shop. For example, get your cooler bags approved so you can earn a Safe Food Handling badge.

There are two ways to achieve the badge in the app:

1. Buy insulated bags through Instacart’s preferred vendor.


2. Purchase insulated bags that meet the Safe Food Handling flow standards.

Send a picture and description of bags you purchase to Instagram Support. You will need approval to earn your badge. Demonstrate your commitment to handling food safely. Read and follow the food safety best practices information on the Instacart shopping website.

How to Accept More Than One Order

The fastest way to get more batches on Instacart is to accept two orders. In other words, shop for two customers with separate orders at the same store.

These are your steps to complete a double order for Instacart:

1. Open the Instacart Shopper app and accept “Double-Batch Order.”


2. Go to the selected store. Click “Got It” on the Instacart app reminder that pops up.


3. Shop the order as usual for both customers. Use separate carts to keep the order straight, if possible.


4. Confirm that each order is accurate by checking the list screen on the app.


5. Check out one order at a time. Make sure the bags are kept separate.

Take the bags to your car but put them in separate areas. For example, put the bags for the first customer in the trunk. Then, place the next customer’s bags on your back seat. Now you’re ready to deliver your orders.

Instacart will display a delivery page for the double batch. Follow the same process as a single delivery for the first order. Follow these steps before you start the second order:

1. Drop off the items at the first customer’s address.


2. Move the red “Swipe to complete delivery” slider on the app. This marks the first order as complete.


3. Wait for Instacart to send another delivery page. Swipe that page to begin the second delivery and to start the timer.


4. Navigate to the second customer’s address.


5. Swipe the “Swipe to complete delivery” again to complete the second order.

Filling two or more batches at a time is complicated but more lucrative. The way to get through it is to take one step at a time. Make sure you communicate with the customers. Finally, deliver excellent service along with their items.

Low Rating Factors

If your ratings continue to drop, find out why they are so low. Do everything you can to raise your rating to excellent or above-average to get more batches.

These are common reasons for low Instacart shopper ratings:

• Passing over a lot of batches


• Too far away from stores


• Missing the four-minute time limit to respond to a batch


• Location services not turned on

Most importantly, poor customer service is definitely unhelpful to your ratings. Customers not only deserve excellent service, but their input weighs heavily on your Instacart shopper score.

Here are a few tips to keeping a customer happy:

• Follow any instructions they leave to the letter.


• Send a message to clarify anything you’re not sure about.


• Remain professional yet friendly if you have to make customer contact.

It is true that some issues will be out of your control. But in areas where you can improve, make changes that will get you more batches.

Business Is Booming

Over 500,000 Instacart shoppers make money every day, and you can too. Don’t leave your earnings to chance. Use the suggestions in this article to set yourself up for success.

How long have you been a shopper with Instacart? Share some tips that have helped you get more batches. Leave a comment in the box below.

Most of the best iOS apps are paid ones, but there are often great deals to grab. That’s why we’ve made a list of paid apps gone FREE today. These are time-sensitive, so you should act quickly if you want these free App Store apps. Moreover, we update the list every day, so make sure to keep checking this page to download free apps for iPhone today.

iGB app

Grab the official iGeeksBlog app to stay updated with the most relevant how-tos, app and game recommendations, troubleshooting tips, product reviews, and more right on your iPhone. 

‎iGeeksBlog – Tech News & Tips (Free, App Store) →

iPhone apps gone free today

‎Mahjong AI Analyze Calculator (Free⁺, App Store) →

‎Exif Viewer – Photo Metadata (Free, App Store) →

‎Match Colours (Free, App Store) →

‎AirDisk Pro (Free⁺, App Store) →

‎Safety Note+ Pro (Free⁺, App Store) →

iPhone games gone free today

‎Rain Drop Catcher (Free, App Store) →

‎Shadow Of Death: Premium Games (Free⁺, App Store) →

‎Civil War: 1864 (Free⁺, App Store) →

For iPhone users, there is no better news than free iOS apps to download. Well, iGeeksBlog is passionate about everything related to Apple products, and therefore, we bring up-to-date info on iPhones, iPads, and more.

So, if you have a penchant for fantastic apps and always look for the opportunity to cash in on them without having to pay anything, you would love to have a glance at this page every day.

It’s amazing how fast applications have been metamorphosed into indispensability these days. Indeed, nothing beats the joy of taking the utmost advantage of an app designed to help you bring about a new dimension into the way you use your device.

And, when some of the most appealing iPhone apps go free, it not only brings plenty of smiles on your face but also the irresistible desire to try something Out-Of-The-Box…!

Once you download the free iPhone apps from the list, you can use it forever! To make this section interactive, we welcome developers to send us apps they want to give out free to iGeeksBlog visitors.

You can contact us on our Twitter (@iGeeksBlog) or DM on Instagram (@iGeeksBlog). We will list your free apps in this section!

Make sure to bookmark this page for the daily dose of the free iPhone apps.

Disclaimer: All apps included in this list are free at the time the blog post was published. We are not responsible for any price change that happens.

Everyone loves to save a few bucks! That’s why we’ve curated all the best iPhone and iPad app deals for you. Moreover, we update this page every day to cover the latest iOS app price drops. We cover all categories of apps and games, so you always have great options. Just scroll below to check out the best iPhone and iPad apps on SALE today! 

‎Underworld Office- Novel Game ($2.99, App Store) →

‎7Days : Backer ($1.99, App Store) →

‎Doom & Destiny Advanced ($0.99, App Store) →

‎Doterminism (Free, App Store) →

‎Filters for Píctures ($0.99⁺, App Store) →

‎after FÒCUS ($0.99⁺, App Store) →

‎Musk MIDI Player ($0.99, App Store) →

‎Economy Picking Guitar School ($11.99, App Store) →

‎AmbientX – Room Effect ($2.99, App Store) →

‎EG WaveSHAPER ($5.99, App Store) →

‎MIDI SolFa Mode-Go-Round ($1.99, App Store) →

‎EG Pulse ($6.99, App Store) →

‎Stark Suspension ($2.99, App Store) →

‎Ho’oponopono Clean and Erase ($1.99, App Store) →

‎Mobile Vocab ($2.99, App Store) →

Our app deals edition ensures you never miss out on a chance to get your much-awaited apps at less price. As someone who uses iOS devices as the daily driver, you’d love to keep a tab on this post.

On most occasions, the price drop is for a short- period of time. Hence, if you ever find any of your favorite paid iPhone and iPad apps available at a discounted price, you should get them at the earliest if you wish to. Enough talk! Let’s take a glance at the top iOS apps on sale today!

Disclaimer:

The price of iOS apps drops for a limited period of time and is subject to change. The decision to change the apps’ price entirely rests with the concerned developers. At times, the price displayed on this post might differ with the actual price of the apps. If you like taking full advantage of hot offers, then check out our daily iOS apps gone FREE posts as well. They will help you not just hack your life to be faster but also save some good bucks.

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps right now. While it is not unknown that the platform offers an encryption option in the chat, many don’t know that it also allows you to encrypt your chat backups on iCloud. Thus, securing your messages.

Further, the data will be secured under a password, and only you will be able to access it on iCloud once encrypted. Let me show you exactly what encrypting is and how you can enable it for WhatsApp chat backups on iCloud!

• What are end-to-end encrypted WhatsApp chat backups?


• How to encrypt WhatsApp chat backups in iCloud on iPhone


• How to reset encrypted iCloud Backup Password in WhatsApp


• Other safety measures on WhatsApp

What are end-to-end encrypted WhatsApp chat backups?

In simple terms, end-to-end encryption means that your data is password-protected and no one else can access it. All WhatsApp messages are encrypted by default, but when you upload them to iCloud, iCloud can see those messages.

Hence, encrypting your backup makes your data safer even on the cloud! But, how does this work?

Well, when you send a message, the data is converted into a special format and needs to be decoded. The receiver’s device then uses the key to decode the message to understand it. This data is gibberish for any device other than the receiver’s as they do not have the key to decode it!

Who can access WhatsApp encrypted chat backup?

As previously mentioned, these encrypted backups can only be accessed by you. The messages can only be accessed on your device since the key to understanding it is only with you. Not even WhatsApp or iCloud can access it.

How to encrypt WhatsApp chat backups in iCloud on iPhone

The process to turn encryption for these backups on or off can be done within the iOS WhatsApp application.

1. Open WhatsApp Settings.


2. Go into Chats → Chat & Backup → End-To-End Encrypted Backup.
   

   



3. Tap Turn On.


4. Choose between Password or 64-digit Encryption Key.


5. Setup a password and tap Next.


6. Tap Create.
   

   

To turn it off using the set password, follow the below steps:

1. Open Settings on WhatsApp.


2. Go into Chats → Chat & Backup → End-To-End Encrypted Backup.


3. Tap Turn Off.


4. Enter your password and tap Done.


5. Tap Turn Off once again.
   

   

How to reset the encrypted iCloud backup password on iPhone

If you forgot the password to your encrypted backup, don’t worry! You can set a new one from WhatsApp itself.

However, you will have to ensure that WhatsApp is still registered on the original device under the same profile. If this condition is not fulfilled, you will have to switch devices.

1. Open Settings on WhatsApp.


2. Go into Chats → Chat & Backup → End-To-End Encrypted Backup.


3. Tap Change Password → I forgot my password.


4. Enter iPhone password.


5. Enter the new password for your encrypted backup.
   

   

Other safety measures on WhatsApp

WhatsApp also offers other methods that help you and your chats stay safe on the app.

1. Two Factor Authentication (2FA) – Using this verification method adds an extra layer of security to your account. You will have to use the set PIN to log in to your WhatsApp account. You can also add an email ID to reset your pin. Here is how to enable Two Factor Authentication:
   
   
   
   1. Open WhatsApp Settings.
   
   
   2. Tap Account → Two-step verification → Enable
   
   
   3. Enter your PIN.
      

      

   
   
   4. Optional: Enter your email ID.
   
   
   5. Tap Next → Done.
   
   
   
   

2. Hide your Read Receipts – While it isn’t exactly a safety measure, it prevents you from responding to the message immediately. (If you count that as safety :D). Check out our guide to turn off Read Receipts on WhatsApp.

That’s it!

I hope this article helped encrypt and keep your WhatsApp backups safe on iCloud. This feature gives WhatsApp a headstart over other competing messaging apps like Telegram. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

Read more:

• How to use WhatsApp on Mac without a connected iPhone


• How to change WhatsApp Security Code on iPhone and Android


• Fix WhatsApp not showing ‘send option’ on iPhone

Performing a safe wipe on your solid-state drive (SSD) is relatively straightforward when done with the necessary software. Securely erasing an SSD largely depends on the type of drive, and other factors, such as the driver’s age.

A solid-state drive can only be written a limited number of times, making it difficult to clean the drive thoroughly. It is possible to harm the SSD by using a standard tool. And because your SSD is such a crucial part of your computer, you should approach this task cautiously. If you don’t, you run the risk of causing damage to your hard drive or losing important data.

Luckily, in this article, you can find instructions on securely erasing an SSD drive without losing any data or harming your drive.

How to Securely Wipe a SSD Drive

The formatting process may be familiar to most people who have worked with HDDs or new SSDs. But why can’t you just reformat your SSD? There is one key difference between formatting and secure erasing methods, and that is completeness.

For the most part, formatting a disk is used to get a new one up and running. The best approach to ensure that your PC will operate with your new hard drive is to format it before installing the operating system.

Most data recovery programs can still recover bits and pieces of data. Therefore, you’re not wiping out the drive. That is why reselling, or recycling items that have been formatted isn’t the best option.

So, to completely erase an SSD securely, there are a couple of different methods.

BIOS/UEFI

A secure wipe is not a typical BIOS/UEFI function on most systems. However, a relatively common motherboard or familiarity with the device’s interface may make this option viable.

If you possess a gaming PC, you may be in luck because it is more likely to provide additional choices for better component management.

There is a good chance that the procedure will go smoothly if your computer’s bios or UEFI supports it. It’s best to consult your user guide if you’re utilizing anything other than a basic setup. An SSD may be securely erased following these steps:

1. Enter the BIOS or UEFI settings of your computer.


2. Locate and pick your SSD. Whether it’s in the device index or a different tab is entirely up to your manufacturer’s interface settings.


3. Look for a data wipe or Secure Erase option. Keep an eye out for alternative keywords because some programs go by several names.


4. Follow any relevant prompts or instructions that may appear when doing the Secure Erase or wipe operation.

Driver Software

In terms of driver management, most customers choose to utilize either their own manufacturer’s software or a third-party choice. Identifying your device’s specs and finding driver support on the manufacturer’s site are good places to start.

A growing variety of third-party solutions are becoming available as SSDs become more widespread. Most major manufacturers also provide erasure solutions. It’s recommended to use the latest software from your device’s manufacturers if possible.

Before starting the erasing process, take the time to learn your drive’s characteristics and whether the software you’re contemplating is compatible. That said, it’s also critical that you back up any data that may be of interest, as secure wipe features are meant to be thorough. In other words, assuming all goes according to plan, any erased data will be completely unrecoverable.

Here are some of the most popular software for securely erasing an SSD drive.

Intel Solid-State Drive Toolbox

If you have an Intel SSD, the Intel Solid-State Drive Toolbox is a must-have tool for Windows users. The “Secure Erase” tab may be found on the left-hand side of the program’s primary screen. Select “Secure Erase” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Some apps, such as the Intel SSD Toolbox, can securely optimize your disk for better performance because of TRIM capability and growing technology. Just as you can choose the timeline for other PC upgrades, you can do the same for your drive optimizer.

Intel SSD Toolbox’s extensive support options are another bonus. Installation instructions, warranty information, and step-by-step guidance on a wide range of common maintenance concerns are all included in this manual. In general, Intel’s SSDs are convenient and straightforward to operate.

GParted

GParted or GNOME Partition Editor is a well-known and trustworthy software. It includes several disk functions, like the recently added partition administration. For Linux SSD users, it’s an excellent solution because it’s open-source and works with a wide range of operating systems.

To get the most out of GParted, you’ll need to boot from a disc instead of the internet. A “Live CD” or “Live USB” must be created, and then the application may be loaded using any physical media that your computer supports.

As a result of the difficulty of setting up GParted, there are several helpful articles, user evaluations, and instructions available online.

Samsung Magician

Samsung Magician may be a little easier to use for those new to the process. Even if your screen has a little bit more information than you need, the clean design stops things from getting too crowded looking. This program can also help you diagnose problems and monitor the health of your drive if you’re seeking to extend the lifespan of your device.

Although Samsung does not provide special support for the Magician tool, having a more current and user-friendly interface is beneficial in this scenario. However, their SSD web page has a multitude of other software info.

Parted Magic

Partition management and disk erasing tools are included in a complete Linux distribution called Parted Magic. Although you’ll have to pay a fee to use it, you’ll always have entry to the suite and be able to delete an SSD with it safely.

Parted Magic may be installed on a USB stick and used to start a computer. To get you started, here’s a quick rundown:

1. Set up a USB device that can be mounted with the program.


2. Connect to the device and restart it.


3. When the drive reboots, select “Option 1” and then “Default Settings.”


4. Go to “Start” in the bottom-left, then “System Tools.”
   


5. Navigate to “Erase Disk” once the computer has booted.
   


6. Pick the Internal Option. You must first validate the disk you wish to delete before using the “Secure Erase command,” which writes a string of zeros to the whole data area. It is necessary to repeatedly press the “Sleep button” until you can proceed further if you are told that the drive is “frozen.” If your drive asks for a password, enter “NULL” as the answer.
   


7. To delete your SSD drive, just click “Yes” to confirm that you’ve read and understood the warnings.
   

The Hands-On Approach

The SSD can be destroyed with a hammer if the disk is dead, or you just don’t want a working drive at the end of it.

Consider that SSDs use little flash storage chips instead of platters to store their data; to remove the data safely, you must shatter the chips. You should remove the cover from the drive before you begin swinging.

Have a Clean SSD

If you follow one of these methods carefully and do your research, you’ll have a clean SSD in no time. As a reminder, it is essential to keep in mind that older programs and outdated SSDs might be more sensitive than the most recent versions of these products. Because certain older devices may not be compatible with newer software, you may want to seek the help of an expert.

Additionally, it’s crucial to back up any data you wish to keep if your disk fails. If you overlook something, odds are you won’t be able to retrieve it using any standard sort of recovery software if you use a secure wipe technique.

Have you ever erased an SSD? Have you ever experienced any trouble erasing an SSD? Let us know in the comment section below!

Showing your family vacation pictures can be tiring if you’re all gathered around a small screen. Watching YouTube videos or streaming your favorite Netflix show is much more enjoyable on a big screen. Do you need a bunch of cables to connect your phone to your TV?

If you have a Roku, we’ve got good news. You don’t need cables at all. Android and Roku devices are compatible, and it’s possible to mirror your phone to Roku. Follow along in this article to learn how to mirror your Android to a Roku device.

Screen Mirroring Prerequisites

Roku’s mirroring feature allows you to wirelessly send anything from your Android phone to your TV. You can send music, photos, videos, web pages, and more. To get started, you need to enable this option on your smartphone or tablet and connect it to your Roku. In most cases, you don’t have to do anything to enable the mirroring feature on your Roku device, as it’ll work automatically.

Does Your Roku Support Screen Mirroring?

Before you establish the connection, make sure your Roku model supports mirroring. Most available Roku models do, but, for instance, the Roku Express 3700 or Roku Express+ 3710 don’t. If you don’t know the model number of your, you can check as follows:

1. Go to your Roku’s main menu, it’s located on the Homepage, scroll down to Settings and select it.
   

   



2. Next, choose System > About. You’ll see the model info there.
   

   

Does Your Android Support Screen Mirroring?

You also need to know if your Android OS supports mirroring, as not all versions do. Generally, it’s likely that it does if it’s 4.4.2 or later. You can find out by opening the Settings app on your phone. Scroll down to find System or About phone and tap to see the OS version if you’re unsure.

Regardless of which model Android you’re using, you can search for the term ‘Software’ and easily find the version you’re running.

How to Enable Mirroring to Roku Devices

We’ve listed a few ways to mirror your Android screen to your Roku. No matter your needs, you should find the solution below.

How to Start Screen Mirroring From Your Android Device Using the Roku App

Assuming your Roku is capable of Screen Mirroring, the process is really simple. You can mirror your Android screen to your Roku using the Roku App. If you want to share home movies, downloaded music, or photos from your phone’s gallery, this is the best way.

Here are the steps to follow to enable screen mirroring on your Android device:

1. Open the Settings on your Android device and connect to the same WiFi network as your Roku device.
   

   



2. Install the Roku App on your Android device and sign into your Roku account. Then, tap on Devices.
   

   



3. Tap on the Roku device where you’d like to mirror your phone. Wait for the device to connect.
   

   



4. Tap on Media.
   

   



5. Tap on Music, Photos, or Videos.
   

   



6. Select the files you’d like to display and press the play button.
   

   

As long as you can connect both devices to the same WiFi network and you know your Roku account login information, this is the perfect solution for sharing files from your Android to your Roku. But, if you want to share other content like YouTube videos, you’ll need to take another route.

How to Cast From Android to Roku

Suppose you want to stream a movie from your Android device to your Roku. Most streaming applications have their own mirroring options (referred to as Casting), meaning the instructions may vary depending on what content you’re trying to view on a larger screen. Fortunately, it’s a pretty streamlined process regardless of disparities in the apps’ interface.

We’re using YouTube as an example of how to cast from an Android app to a Roku device. Here’s what to do:

1. As mentioned above, connect your Android device and Roku device to the same WiFi network.
   

   



2. Open the YouTube app (or application of your choice) on your Android device and begin playing a video you’d like to mirror. Then, tap the Casting icon in the upper right-hand corner of the video.
   

   



3. Tap on your Roku device in the list that appears.
   

   

The video you’re trying to mirror should begin to play automatically on your Roku device.

How to Mirror From Roku to Android Using Third-Party Apps

When you want to mirror your entire Android screen, you can rely on third-party apps to help. Unlike the methods listed above that only let you mirror certain parts of your screen, some applications allow you to mirror anything you want.

You can search the Google Play Store for Mirroring apps to find the one that best suits your needs. For this article, we’re using the Screen Mirroring for Roku app. This application works great as long as your Android device is connected to the same WiFi network as your Roku. But, it does have some ads, and the premium features will cost $4.99/mo.

Here’s how to use a third-party app to mirror your Android device to your Roku.

1. Head to the Google Play Store and install the app of your choice. Then, allow any permissions necessary to use the app. Select the option to Start Mirroring.
   

   



2. Bypass any ads that pop-up and connect your Android to your Roku device.
   

   



3. If you chose the free option, tap Watch Ad.
   

   



4. Tap Start Now.
   

   

As mentioned above, your Android screen will automatically appear on the TV connected to your Roku.

How to Receive Screen Mirroring on Your Roku Device

If you don’t receive a prompt to mirror a screen from your Android device after performing the steps mentioned above, here are the steps to follow to enable screen mirroring on your Roku device.

1. Grab your Roku remote, locate the Home button and press it.
   

   



2. Now, scroll down and choose Settings from the menu you see on the screen.
   

   



3. Next, scroll down and choose System.
   

   



4. Then, scroll down and click on Screen mirroring.
   

   



5. Now, click on the aptly named Screen mirroring devices.
   

   



6. Then, look under Always allowed devices for your Android device, allow it if it isn’t already.

Roku Screen Mirroring Settings

If you’d like to adjust the screen mirroring configuration, follow the instructions below.

1. Just like previously mentioned, grab your Roku remote and press the Home button.
   

   



2. Again, scroll down and choose Settings from the menu you see on the screen.
   

   



3. As mentioned above, scroll down and choose System.
   

   



4. Again, then scroll down and select Screen mirroring.
   

   



5. Now, under Screen mirroring mode, you’ll see three options on the right: Prompt, Always allow and Never allow. If you choose Prompt, you will need to confirm a device each time it tries to mirror on your big screen. The second setting allows mirroring without notifying you every time and the third blocks any device from mirroring.
   

   

If you’re the only user of that particular Roku, it’s probably safe to set it to Always allow. If you don’t live alone, go for Prompt.

Isn’t Mirroring the Same as Casting?

We tend to use these two terms interchangeably. However, there are differences between screen mirroring and screencasting. We’ll explain briefly.

1. While casting specific content from your phone, you can do other things without the content getting interrupted. That’s not something you can do with mirroring, as everything you do shows up on the device to which you’re mirroring.


2. Casting is available on iOS devices, while screen mirroring is not.


3. Certain apps allow you to cast from your mobile phone to your TV. With screen mirroring, you can use any app, and it will be displayed on the big screen.


4. When casting, you can use your Roku remote to control what’s happening on the TV. As for mirroring, you can only use commands on your phone.


5. When you cast a TV show, for instance, you only see the playback on your TV. But not when you’re mirroring, where the whole screen will be shown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re new to screen mirroring or you still have questions, this section is for you!

What can I mirror from my Android to my Roku?

Unlike casting, mirroring content means you can view anything on your devices’ screen on your Roku. Mirroring is used when you’re unable to cast from an app. Essentially, this means that you can mirror anything from your Android device to your Roku.

How do I control the content displayed when mirroring?

Whereas casting allows users to take advantage of the Roku remote’s functions to control playback, mirroring content means you’ll have to control everything from your phone. For example, if you’re playing a home movie, you’ll need to use the pause, fast forward, rewind, and play button from your phone. The remote won’t work with screen mirroring.

Sharing Has Never Been Easier

As you see, you only need a few minutes to set up the screen mirroring feature on your Roku device. For Android users, this has several advantages. Do you want to show your family vacation photos or your latest design? Done. Do you want to send content from an app unsupported by Roku? Also done.

What will you mirror to your Roku device and watch on the big screen? Let us know in the comments section below.