AirPlay Review

Of all the new features introduced in Apple’s recent iOS 4.2 software update, AirPlay was the one I most anticipated. After 4.2 was released Monday afternoon, I updated my iPhone and decided to try the new feature with a set of remote speakers attached to my AirPort Express. Though I haven’t yet taken the Apple TV plunge—which would enable photo and video streaming—I was still excited to try out the music component of the feature. After some initial testing, I am pleased to report that AirPlay works great!

Those who have just updated to 4.2 will have likely noticed a new icon nestled into the playback controls of several apps. This icon, which looks like a triangle with a rectangle surrounding it, represents AirPlay. If you are connected to a wireless network which features either an AirPort Express or the new Apple TV, simply tap the icon to view a list of remote streaming options. By default, the entry corresponding to your device will be checked. However by selecting another source—for instance “Ben’s AirPort Express”—you can easily stream the audio playing back on your device. Though playback did not occur immediately in my test, a connection was easily established, and audio began to play within 2-3 seconds.

AirPlay is a fantastic way to wirelessly play content from you iOS device, but its functionality is not limited to Apple’s apps alone. I was delighted to find that Pandora had enabled the new feature in the most recent build of their app. Previously, the only way I could get this functionality was by either plugging my iPhone in, or dealing with the clunky Plex plugin on my HTM (Home Theater Mac.) Not only was my iPhone no longer tethered to speakers, but I could multitask and allow the device to standby without interrupting playback. A lot of people have been giving Apple grief for what AirPlay lacks, but fail to consider exactly what it offers. Don’t forget that a dedicated “Pandora Box” can run you anywhere from $50-$100. Apple has essentially made this functionality available for free, and on its existing devices with AirPlay.

I also tested the new feature with Apple’s YouTube app. From time to time—ok a lot of the time—I wind up lying on the couch watching YouTube videos on my iPhone. While onboard speaker performance has never been a problem, it does leave something to be desired. I noticed the app included the AirPlay icon so I decided to give it a try. I was slightly alarmed when the video momentarily stuttered and froze, but after buffering for a few seconds, the audio began to play through my wireless speakers in perfect sync with the video.

Though this review just barely scratches the surface of AirPlay’s capabilities, expect a follow up if my wishes come true for an Apple TV this holiday. iOS device based streaming with AirPlay is only available on select devices as part of Apple’s iOS 4.2 update. To read more on the update as well as view a list of compatible devices, click here.