The chromecast I’ve got is about 10 years old and a few things don’t cast on it no more. I’m guessing I need a new one, but is there another option?
The chromecast I’ve got is about 10 years old and a few things don’t cast on it no more. I’m guessing I need a new one, but is there another option?
If it’s a Google Chromecast you can try downloading the Google home app from your devices app store and then connecting it to the same wifi as the Chromecast uses. If there is an update you should be able to select the Chromecast and then select the gear icon at the top left of the screen. An update will show up on the page it takes you to.
Please note that Google stopped supporting the original Chromecast. Because there is no support some things just may not work at all and there may be no updates for that device as a result.
https://www.pcmag.com/news/time-to-upgrade-google-ends-support-for-first-gen-chromecast
https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-update-chromecast-4628168
Thanks I’m definitely not getting an update showing, and I think it’s an original chromecast. Should I buy another chromecast or is there another type of casting device that’s better?
If all you need is basic Chromecast functionality for streaming there’s the Onn box from Walmart that will do the trick and comes with a remote. They’re about $20 in the US. I have seen people speak very highly of them (even though I don’t personally use one ATM). If you’re looking to do a lot more than just casting shows, I would recommend an Nvidia shield pro (not the tube). It will allow you to do all the Chromecast things, gets pretty sufficient security and QoL updates and even though these devices are older and a lot more expensive, mine hasn’t had a hiccough yet.
The shield pro will allow you to do Chromecast and use services like GeForce now to do game streaming, and it can be used for media management of local files. So I suppose it all depends on what you want to use the new device for. There are options between these two at various price points, that offer different features including Google’s newer chromecasts.
But yes I would recommend upgrading because IoT devices that are constantly connected to the internet are a weak link in the security chain of your home network and the original Chromecast is more so because it has not been receiving security updates.
Crikey I didn’t realise security was a thing with casting! I’m in the UK so the Walmart ones not an option, what key words should I look for when trying to find an equivalent?
https://www.aftvnews.com/onn-4k-pro-with-google-tv-will-be-sold-in-europe-under-a-different-brand-and-name/ It looks like the Onn box is sold in the UK under a different name but I’d check it out and see what reviews it has to make sure.
I believe this is also available on the UK Amazon site so you may be able to find it there.
I just searched for “Onn Android TV alternative” and “Chromecast alternative” to see what was out there and started clicking on reviews.
Mate this is so helpful! Really appreciate you taking the time to write this out
No problem. I’m mostly trying to steer people away from using overpriced units when cheaper alternatives with the same features are available. That’s most of the reason I didn’t suggest a newer chromecast from Google. I’d also stay away from Roku (because recently they have been injecting ads and forced arbitration clauses that probably aren’t legal or enforceable in the EU and UK).
Hey mate thanks for your help I just set my Thompson up! If it wasn’t for your advice I’d probably spent twice as much on a Google one
That’s awesome! I’m glad I could help!