Google Chromecast connects to your TV’s HDMI port and streams Netflix or YouTube from a Phone or Laptop.
What is Chromecast?
Google Chromecast is a media (Video/Audio) streaming device developed by Google. With a Chromecast, you can easily stream video/Audio contents from any device directly to your TV. You can share your laptop or phone’s screen onto your TV and watch anything including Netflix, YouTube, or any other streaming services with just a click and control it remotely.
The first Google Chromecast was released in 2013. Initially, it only supported HD videos to stream onto your TV. But with the release of Chromecast Ultra in 2016, it can now cast 4K videos and supports Wi-Fi as well as Ethernet connectivity for uninterrupted streaming.
How does it work?
The Chromecast operates when you send instructions to the Chromecast device and points it to the source of content. Chromecast then retrieves content using its connection and streams with the best possible quality. This means, if you are using the regular Chromecast you can only stream HD videos but if you are using Chromecast Ultra, you can stream 4K videos as well.
The two types of Chromecast include Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra. The regular Chromecast costs $35 and can stream videos at up to 1080p. The Chromecast Ultra costs $75 and can stream 4k videos with HDR technology.
How to Setup a Google Chromecast?
The setup process for Google Chromecast is pretty simple and you can get yourself started within a few minutes. But if you feel stuck somewhere, here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Plug-in the Chromecast to Your TV
The first step to setting up a Chromecast device is to plug the device to TV’s HDMI port and USB to the compatible port. If you are using a Chromecast Ultra, make sure to connect the adaptor to a power valve to sustain the power.
Step 2: Download the Google Home App
You can download Google Home App for Android from Google Play Store and for Apple from Apple App Store. You don’t need Google Home for laptop and can access Chromecast from Google Chrome. Here are the instructions.
Step 3: Select Devices and Set up
Within the App, you will get a notification to set up a new device. Select the device and start the setup of the Chromecast device. Just keep on tapping the Continue button whenever it prompts you until the setup finishes.
Step 4: Verify The Code
Once you are on the verification stage, you have to verify your code from your app to your TV screen. Select “Yes” if they match and proceed ahead.
Step 5: Connect Chromecast to the internet
You can either use Ethernet cable (Chromecast Ultra only) or Wi-Fi to connect to the internet. Make sure the app and device are both on the same network. You can sign in to your Google account while it is not necessary to use the device.
Step 6: Complete Setup
Upon completion of setup, you can now browse your videos from your Laptop or Phone and stream to your TV.
Google has confirmed the next Chromecast device, Chromecast 4. The release date will be announced on the “Launch Night In” event happening on 30th September 2020. It’s named Google Sabrina and the price is expected to be around $35 to $50.
