If you want to play games on the big screen without having to run cables between your PC and Apple TV, the Steam Link app lets you do just that. Read on to learn how to stream games to your Apple TV with Steam Link.
How does Steam Link work?
Virtually any game you play on your computer can be streamed to any TV in your home with Steam Link app. This means you can play RPGs, platform games, first person shooter games or even casino games like live roulette, on the big screen for the ultimate immersive experience. Steam Link’s technology takes advantage of the power you already have in your home. Quite simply, video and audio data is sent from your PC’s Steam library to your TV. While Steam Link initially required specific hardware, the Steam Link app now allows streaming to any type of TV, including Apple TV. Now let’s take a look at the steps to start streaming games to your Apple TV.
Step one: connect a controller in Apple’s tvOS
Before installing the Steam Link app, the first thing you need to do is connect a controller to your Apple TV. However, tvOS and iOS platforms only support a few controllers, such as console controllers designed for iOS. Apple TV does not support controllers like the one on the Nintendo Switch Pro. But as long as your Apple TV is running tvOS 13 or later, you can directly pair an Xbox controller or DualShock 4 controller. If you want to use the Xbox Series X and DualSense controllers, you will need tvOS 14.5. If you have an older version of tvOS, only Apple approved MFi controllers and the Steam controller will work. The exact instructions for connecting the controller of your choice depend on the specific controller you are using, but each controller is connected via Bluetooth. So, start by going to the “Settings” of the Apple TV, choose “Remotes and devices”, then “Bluetooth”. Then enter pairing mode on your controller.
Step two: launch Steam Link and run it
Once you’ve connected your controller, visit the Apple TV App Store and install Steam Link. Before opening the app, make sure your Apple TV and your host PC are on the same network. The application will automatically search for computers on the network and after a few seconds your host PC should appear. If not, make sure Steam Link is open and press “Rescanner”. Everything is fine, select your host PC from the list. You will then need to enter a four-digit PIN code to prevent unauthorized people from logging in. After entering the PIN code, the Steam Link app will perform various tests to determine the speed and quality of the network. Based on these factors, Steam Link will automatically set a frame rate and resolution for your game stream. However, you have the option to change these settings later to suit your preferences.
Step Three: Start Streaming Games
You have now completed all of the initial setup steps, although depending on the operating system you have installed on your PC, you may be prompted to install an additional audio driver before you can start streaming games. If so, it’s as easy as following the instructions that appear on your computer screen. Once everything is ready, the game on your PC can appear on your Apple TV. All you have to do is click “start” to begin the flow. Simple!
