There are multiple reasons why you can’t AirPlay the HBO Max app to your AirPlay 2- compatible TV or Apple TV. If you have undergone such an issue, don’t worry since the problems can be fixed easily. Follow our expert-recommended solutions to fix the AirPlay not working issue on HBO Max.
Reasons For HBO Max AirPlay Not Working
- When the Apple device firmware is not up-to-date
- If the app is outdated and isn’t compatible with AirPlay
- Internet speed isn’t up to the mark
- Too many apps running in the background
- If you have connected the device to a VPN
- If HBO Max servers went down or overloaded
- When the internet connection is unstable
- If TV and Apple TV are not connected to the same WiFi network
- If you have enabled the Auto-lock feature on your iPhone or iPad
How to Fix HBO Max AirPlay Not Working
Here are troubleshooting methods to rectify the HBO Max AirPlay not working issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Check the Apple TV and HBO Max Server
So the first and foremost thing you should do is check the service’s status. There is the possibility that the server went down unexpectedly so you cannot play the title on Max, or might even experience some temporary glitch. To verify the same, you can visit the Downdetector website to check the live status of the HBO Max server. Also, check the status of the Apple TV from their official website. If there is an issue with any server, the only option is to wait until the server is back online.

Check the Internet
Basically, AirPlay works with the help of an internet connection. Ensure to have a stable bandwidth of at least 25 Mbps for 1080p streaming. By visiting fast.com, you can test the internet speed. If the speed test records a lesser internet speed, you can try to power cycle and establish the connection with the Internet service provider’s server again.
When you restart the router, you can check the speed again. If the issue is prolonged, you might have to reach out to ISP to fix it. Furthermore, you shall disconnect other devices if connected to this WiFi network while using AirPlay.

Connect to the Same WiFi
AirPlay will never work if you have connected both devices to different WiFi networks. Hence, connecting your Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible smart TV to the same WiFi network as your receiver is important. Ensure both devices are within the WiFi range to avoid connection failures.
Disable VPN
If you have connected your iPhone or Mac to a VPN, it might be one of the reasons for the hindrance with AirPlay. We recommend you disconnect the VPN from your device and try playing the video on the HBO Max app. If the issue still continues, you can try the next troubleshooting method.
Check Device Compatibility
HBO Max is available on the App Store for free download. Once you have installed it, log in with your HBO Max account to get started. It also requires a valid subscription to let you access the content. However, your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or Apple TV should meet the minimum requirements for installation.
Recently, HBO Max is redesigned as Max which has more content. You can download the Max app from the App Store for free. Make sure to check the device requirements in the app information.
Close Background Apps
To AirPlay efficiently to your Smart TV or Apple TV without a buffer, you need stable internet. When you run apps in the background, it might affect the streaming speed hence resulting in lags and buffering. If you experience this, we suggest you check and close the unnecessary apps running in the background.
Update Devices
Ensure all the devices are updated to the latest version for a smooth HBO Max AirPlay experience.
On iPhone/ iPad
It is necessary to update your iOS to the latest version to fix AirPlay not working problems. As a result, your firmware will automatically eliminate unidentified errors caused within the device. And the device will become compatible with installing the latest version of HBO Max. After updating, check if you can AirPlay HBO Max without any problems.

On Apple TV
1. Go to the Settings tab on your Apple TV, and click on the Systems tab.

2. Under the Software update tab, click on Update Software.

3. Check if any new firmware is available, and proceed further by clicking on Download and Install to start updating the TV.
Update HBO Max
Sometimes, AirPlay may keep disconnecting due to outdated software. From your iOS, visit the App Store. Search for HBO Max and select the app. Click on Update to get the latest version if it shows any latest version.
1. Turn on the iOS device, and navigate to the App Store.
2. Go to the Purchased tab, and scroll down to locate the HBO Max from the list.
3. Click the Update button next to the HBO Max to keep the application up-to-date.

4. Later, open the HBO Max app and log in to your HBO Max account with a valid subscription plan.
With the updated version, you will be able to AirPlay HBO Max without any interruptions.
Unmute the Audio
HBO Max AirPlay sound not working is one of the common issues. Sometimes, you may keep your smartphone in silent mode. But, eventually, it will mute the audio when using AirPlay. To fix this, turn up the volume on your iOS device according to your preference.

Re-Login to HBO Max
In some situations, you might see a black screen on AirPlay. You can fix the issue by logging out of the HBO Max app and logging in again. Also, check if your HBO Max subscription is active.

Uninstall and Reinstall HBO Max
Sometimes HBO Max may encounter an unexpected error by itself, which is why you can’t AirPlay. Therefore, you can uninstall the HBO Max from your iOS and reinstall it again from the App Store. This trick will surely work if the app causes the problem.
Restart Apple TV
If the HBO Max content is not loading while AirPlay, it is better to restart the Apple TV. It will clear the temporary files and eliminate any type of glitches caused by apps running in the background. First, Go to Settings on your Apple TV. Then click on System → Restart. You can also press and hold the Back and the TV buttons simultaneously to restart Apple TV with your remote.

Reset Apple TV to Factory Settings
If none of the above troubleshooting methods doesn’t fix the issue, you can proceed in resetting your Apple TV to factory settings. When you reset, your device will refresh and will be visible to your iPhone or Mac when you try to AirPlay HBO Max. To begin the reset, head to Settings → Choose System → Select Reset.

FAQ
If HBO Max AirPlay plays only audio but no video, clear the cache memory of HBO Max by uninstalling and reinstalling the app. Then login again and start streaming.
Yes, you can AirPlay HBO Max from your iOS device to Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible smart TV if both devices are on the same WiFi network.
Yes. You can be able to AirPlay HBO Max in 4K quality. However, ensure that you have a stable and high-speed internet connection.