Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fastest of them all? Content creation on smartphones is at an all-time high. Every few seconds, terrabytes of content is being created and saved locally, and as such nothing beats viewing your photos, videos, apps and what not on the big screen.
Screen mirroring/Screen sharing brings to mind Apple’s Airplay, Samsung’s AllShare Cast, LG’s Smart Share, and a few others. To their detriment, these features are often proprietary and as such work best in the exclusive cocoon of their own eco-system. Not much help for someone who doesn’t buy the same brands across the board. But there’s hope.
Hooking up your smartphone to your TV using an MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) cable is well and good if you have the cable in question, to begin with. But let’s not forget the compatibility, procurement and cost implications. With that in mind, the other option would incidentally be wireless screen mirroring from smartphone to Smart TV.
Miracast
The current crop of devices from Android smartphones/tablets (Android 4.2 Jelly Bean and later), Windows PCs (Windows 8.1+) to WiFi enabled Smart TVs come with an inbuilt albeit often unadvertised wireless feature called Miracast.
Miracast is a Wi-Fi certified, high-definition wireless protocol which uses WiFi Direct to connect wirelessly between other WiFi Direct enabled devices, like a smartphone or PC, without having to connect to a wireless router. Acting like a wireless, HDMI cable, Miracast mirrors everything you see on your Android to your PC or Smart TV in HD + audio (screen mirroring).
The only exception to the rule is incidentally any Google-branded device running Android 6.0 Marshmallow and later. The likes of Google Nexus and Pixel phones took a different tack, choosing Chromecast over Miracast. On that point, device manufacturers are not required to brand screen mirroring on individual devices as ‘Miracast’.
Matter of fact, very few do if any. The likes of Sony, Samsung, LG, HTC and the rest often baptize Miracast with another terminology. The underlying technology remains the same though. Here are a few:
- AllShare Cast
- Cast
- Display Mirroring
- Share and Connect
- Screen Mirroring
- Screen Casting
- HTC Connect
- Screen Sharing
- SmartShare
- Smart View
- Quick Connect
- Wireless display
Related:
- What is miracast: A complete beginner’s guide
- How to cast media from Windows 10 PC to your Smart TV
Screen Mirroring on Android
Screen Mirroring apps on the Play Store are legion but very few actually work as advertised when you’re not being bombarding with ads galore. You don’t actually need them for the most part. Let’s see how you can do it yourself with a few taps.
Android devices are varied and thus there isn’t one-guide-fits-all. You’re bound to encounter some challenges finding the settings that apply to your exact device. However, the steps below should be able to toss you in the right direction, after which you can positively find your way around.
There are two ways we have observed to get Screen mirror or Screencast to work, depending on your device. Our device at the moment is the Infinix Note 5 (Android One) which uses Miracast dubbed which simply goes by the name ‘Cast’. You should probably point out that Screen mirroring only works with compatible devices which are on the 2.4GHz spectrum. (5GHz is not often supported).
Method 1
- Go to Settings .
- Select Connected devices
- Select Cast
- Tap the hamburger menu on the top right corner (the 3 menu dots)
- Tick Enable Wireless Display
- Tap the name of your Smart TV
- On your Smart TV, Allow [name of device] to mirror screen
NOTE : We found this method to be the quickest way to connect to a Smart TV/PC. We have so far tested it with the Lenovo K3 Note, Infinix Note 5 and the Redmi Note 5 on Samsung, LG and a Roku TV. Make sure that you are not using a VPN otherwise it will interfere with the process, as our EIC David Okwii found out the hard way.
Method 2
- Go to Settings
- Go to Network & Internet
- (You can simply drag down the notification bar and long press on WiFi)
- Click on WiFi
- Tap WiFi Preferences
- Select Advanced
- Tap on WiFi Direct
- Tap the name of your Smart TV
- On your Smart TV, Allow [name of device] to mirror screen
NOTE : Method 2 comes with a few wrinkles. For the most part, the connection failed between devices. This method only made sense when we used a Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime and coupled it with Samsung’s Smart View. We shall more tests in the interim.
The process might be different depending on the device. A few smartphones/tablets only require you to drag down the notification bar to locate the Miracast app (branded as Smart View/AllShare Cast, e.t.c). Once you tap on it, you can start screencasting to your Smart TV, plain and simple.
Screen mirroring on Smart TVs
As stated earlier, Miracast the screen mirroring technology rides on the wave started by WiFi Direct. For its part, WiFi Direct is tethered to WiFi itself. You should know that smart TVs have one thing in common: they all connect to WiFi. It could be on the internet or even a local network, but that’s beside the point.
Most Smart TVs have Miracast built-in. And by default, WiFi Direct is always on behind the scenes. How you can tell is that your Smart TV is discoverable and it appears as a WiFi network. On most devices, there’s no button to toggle WiFi direct on/off. You often don’t have to do much other than accept the Android device to synchronize with your Smart TV.
How to Allow/Block Screen Mirroring request on Smart TVs
As is the case with PCs, Screen Mirroring does not forcefully hijack your screen at gunpoint. There are options to always allow the connection, prompt you to accept it or downright decline to synchronize your devices.
Similar to our old Samsung TV, the Roku TV which we used when writing this post gives you 4 options: Always Accept, Accept, Ignore, Always Ignore. These options appear whenever you are writing to screen mirror your PC/smartphone unless modified otherwise.
These options can be modified in settings, depending on which Smart TV you have. You can set your TV to always allow a connection from a certain device, prompt you or always ignore it. You can also set a list of Allowed devices which you don’t have to prompt you before connecting. If you don’t want a certain device to connect, you also have the prerogative to add it to your list of Blocked devices.
Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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