Broad compatibility
H.264Compatibility
Up to 1080p
The dependable starting point for broader hardware support and weaker network conditions.
Works best on a stable local network
Requested maximum only. iOS selects the actual coded dimensions.
Quality modes
The right codec for
the network in front of you.
Each mode asks iOS for a different maximum. The phone still chooses the actual coded dimensions, and the Windows PC must decode what arrives.
Recommended
HEVCBalanced
Up to 1440p
A sharper HEVC path for most good 5 GHz connections and compatible decoding hardware.
Good 5 GHz Wi-Fi recommended
Requested maximum only. iOS selects the actual coded dimensions.
Beta
HEVCHigh Quality
Up to 2160p
An experimental high-detail path for capable HEVC hardware and especially strong networks.
Strong 5/6 GHz Wi-Fi or PC Ethernet recommended
Requested maximum only. iOS selects the actual coded dimensions.
Quick comparison
Know what each setting asks for.
These are qualification targets—not universal guarantees across every iPhone, GPU, driver, or Windows system.
| Mode | Codec | Requested maximum | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | H.264 | Up to 1080p | Broad compatibility and weaker networks |
| Balanced | HEVC | Up to 1440p | Most good 5 GHz connections |
| High Quality Beta | HEVC | Up to 2160p | Strong 5/6 GHz or Ethernet-connected PC |
High Quality qualification
High Quality remains Beta.
Suitable HEVC hardware and a strong network are required for the customer path. Native-4K output is not guaranteed. Main10, HDR, P010, and Display P3 are unsupported; the current color path is accurate 8-bit SDR.