Chromecast is a handy device that lets you play your favorite media content on your TV from a wide range of devices. It is a small device that connects to the TV via HDMI and can be controlled via Wi-Fi. Below we explain how to set up a Chromecast and how to cast from different devices and apps.
What is Chromecast?
Chromecast is a device from Google that allows you to play media on your TV from your phone, tablet or computer. It is a small dongle that connects to the TV via HDMI. After the device is connected via Wi-Fi to the same network as the device you want to cast with, you can use different apps to play media content on your TV.
Chromecast setup
Below, we explain how to set up Chromecast:
- Connect the Chromecast to your TV’s HDMI port and connect the USB cable to the Chromecast and to a power source (such as a wall outlet or USB port on your TV).
- Go to the Google Home app on your device.
- Select the Chromecast you want to set up and follow the on-screen steps to connect to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Follow the instructions to update the Chromecast to the latest software.
- Pair the Chromecast with a Google account to use it.
Cast from different devices and apps
Cast from a laptop or desktop PC
- Open the Google Chrome browser and install the Chromecast extension.
- Click the Cast icon in the browser and select the Chromecast you want to use.
- Choose what you want to cast and play the media content.
Cast from an iPhone
- Download the Google Home app on your iPhone.
- Follow the steps to connect to the same Wi-Fi network as the Chromecast.
- Open the app whose media you want to cast and tap the Cast icon.
- Select the Chromecast and play the media content.
Cast from an Android phone
- Download the Google Home app on your Android phone.
- Follow the steps to connect to the same Wi-Fi network as the Chromecast.
- Open the app whose media you want to cast and tap the Cast icon.
- Select the Chromecast and play the media content.
Cast from different apps
Youtube
- Open the Youtube app on your device.
- Tap the Cast icon and select the Chromecast.
- Select the video you want to play and play it.
Netflix
- Open the Netflix app on your device.
- Tap the Cast icon and select the Chromecast.
- Select the title you want to play and play it.
HBO Max
- Open the HBO Max app on your device.
- Tap the Cast icon and select the Chromecast.
- Select the title you want to play and play it.
Disney+
- Open the Disney+ app on your device.
- Tap the Cast icon and select the Chromecast.
- Select the title you want to play and play it.
Common issues
Below we cover some common problems when setting up or using a Chromecast:
Chromecast is untraceable
If the Chromecast is not found, check the following:
- Make sure the Chromecast is turned on and connected to a power source and the TV.
- Make sure the Chromecast and the device you want to cast to are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Make sure the Google Home app is up to date.
Casting fails
If casting fails, check the following:
- Make sure the Chromecast and the device you want to cast with are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Make sure the app you want to cast with has been updated to the latest version.
- Try restarting the Chromecast and the device you want to cast with.
Not all apps work
Although Chromecast supports a large number of apps, not all apps work with it. Before downloading an app, make sure it is compatible with Chromecast.
With this information, you can set up and use the Chromecast to play media content on your TV from various devices and apps. If you experience any problems, check the above common issues or consult Google’s support page.