Google Chromecast: Set up, how to cast and hidden tricks
Most of the televisions on the market today are smart TVs with built-in apps for streaming and entertainment. But what do you do if you don’t have a smart TV and want to watch your favorite series on Netflix? That is where Google’s Chromecast comes in.
Chromecast, now in its third generation, plugs into your television through the HDMI port. Pair it with your mobile device, and you will have streaming apps at your fingertips. Tap or click here to check out streaming services offering free trials.
There is one big difference between Google’s Chromecast and smart TVs. While smart TVs have streaming apps built into their operating software, Chromecast mirrors your mobile device’s content to your television. Keep reading to find out how to set it up and a few more handy tips.
How to set it up your Chromecast
Whether you have the standard Chromecast or the new Chromecast with Google TV, the setup process is all the same.
- After unboxing the Chromecast, plug it into an available HDMI port on your television. If it comes with a power cable, plug that in too.
- Ensure that you have a phone or tablet ready, have a Google account and access to a Wi-Fi network.
- On your television, cycle to the correct HDMI channel.
- Make a note of the Chromecast device number. You will need that later.
- If you haven’t already, download the Google Home app to your phone or tablet.
- Open the Google Home app and sign in to your account. You might need to set up a Home if you haven’t already.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your device.
- The app will start looking for devices and should recognize the Chromecast.
- Once detected, follow the on-screen prompts and look for the Chromecast device number from earlier.
- Connect the Chromecast and your mobile device to the same Wi-Fi network.
- If set up correctly, you should see a background image, the time and your device’s name on the screen.
Casting video or music from your device
As everything is set up and ready to go, you are probably itching to start viewing your favorite content. You can cast video content from Chromecast-enabled apps to your TV through your Android or iOS device.
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How to cast content:
- Connect the Chromecast and your mobile device to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the desired Chromecast-enabled app.
- To view content, tap on the Cast button and select Chromecast.
- When connected to the Chromecast, the Cast button will turn blue.
- Note: the Cast button on supported apps isn’t in the same location on all.
To cast from apps like Netflix, Hulu or Spotify, open each app individually when you want to view the content. For a comprehensive list of all supported apps, look at Google’s informational website.
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