AirServer alternative for Windows: HomePod audio options
AirServer receives screen casting on a computer. ToneRelay sends Windows audio to HomePod. They solve different directions of the connection.
All HomePod models supported
ToneRelay supports the full HomePod lineup: HomePod (1st generation), HomePod (2nd generation), and HomePod mini.
Play Windows 10/11 x64 default-output audio on a configured HomePod over the same reachable local network. ToneRelay has been tested with HomePod software 27.
| HomePod model | ToneRelay support |
|---|---|
| HomePod (1st generation) | Playback supported |
| HomePod (2nd generation) | Playback supported |
| HomePod mini | Playback supported |
The deciding difference
Start with the direction: phone to PC requires a receiver; PC audio to HomePod requires a sender. An AirPlay receiver label alone does not establish sending capability.
Which direction should audio or video travel?
| Your task | Required role | What to evaluate |
|---|---|---|
| Phone or tablet display → PC screen | A receiver running on the PC | AirServer’s official product and version requirements |
| Windows default audio → HomePod | An audio sender running on the PC | ToneRelay’s local trial |
| Desktop mirroring, multiple targets or other protocols | Depends on the destination and feature | Other tools; ToneRelay does not provide these features |
AirServer editions and requests for a free alternative
AirServer has separate Windows products. The Universal page describes AirPlay, Google Cast and Miracast receiving; a separate product page covers Windows 10/11. Check the requirements of the edition you choose rather than applying an older page’s system list to every edition.
ToneRelay cannot replace phone-to-PC screen mirroring. For Windows sound on HomePod, it offers a seven-day local trial and a USD $14.99 one-time permanent Pro license plus applicable taxes. It is not permanently free software.
Features and supported devices
| Product | Supported use |
|---|---|
| AirServer | AirServer Universal turns a Windows PC into a mirroring receiver. |
| ToneRelay | Windows 10/11 default output to HomePod or HomePod mini on the same local network. |
When to consider AirServer
For mirroring a phone or tablet onto a PC display, evaluate AirServer. ToneRelay cannot receive or display another device’s screen.
Before switching to ToneRelay
- Confirm that the destination is HomePod or HomePod mini on the same local network as your Windows 10/11 PC.
- Install ToneRelay, select the speaker and play an app using the Windows default output. The current installer is unsigned.
- Test discovery, reconnection and delay. The account-free 7-day trial starts at the first successful Playing state.
- Buy only after testing: USD $14.99 for a permanent license plus applicable taxes. Updates are currently manual.
ToneRelay limitations
No multi-room, stereo pairs, separate per-app routing, DLNA, Chromecast, Sonos or Apple TV support. Not designed for zero-latency gaming or live monitoring.
Official product information
Other alternatives
Choose the next step for your setup
Check the requirements first, then follow the guide that matches your speaker or symptom. Try on your own equipment before buying.
Who publishes this comparison, and how can you verify it?
ToneRelay publishes this page and develops the ToneRelay app. This comparison helps you choose by device, connection direction and required features. It is not an independent review or a performance ranking.
Other products are described using the vendor sources linked on this page; a citation does not imply vendor endorsement. Source review dates can differ from this page’s update date, which does not mean every product was tested again today. Check the original sources and trial audible playback, reconnection and delay on your own equipment before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Which HomePod models does ToneRelay support?
ToneRelay supports the full HomePod lineup: HomePod (1st generation), HomePod (2nd generation), and HomePod mini. Play Windows 10/11 x64 default-output audio on a configured HomePod over the same reachable local network. ToneRelay has been tested with HomePod software 27.
Should I use AirServer to send Windows sound to HomePod?
The linked AirServer Universal page describes receiving on a PC. For the opposite direction, Windows default audio to HomePod, evaluate a sender such as ToneRelay.
Which app audio can ToneRelay play?
Spotify, YouTube, browser and desktop audio using the current Windows default output. ToneRelay does not offer separate per-app routing.
Is ToneRelay a free AirServer alternative?
Choose by direction first. ToneRelay does not receive phone screen mirroring; it sends Windows default audio to HomePod. It has a seven-day trial and a paid one-time permanent Pro license.
Are AirServer and ToneRelay interchangeable?
Not generally. The cited AirServer products receive mirroring on a computer. ToneRelay sends computer audio to HomePod. Choose by source, destination and required features.