General FAQs

Having trouble with your Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast with Google TV, or Google TV Streamer (4K)? Don't worry, your question may be answered below. If your question isn't covered, try to troubleshoot your issue.

Setup and settings

Why won't the USB cable I use for my other devices work on Google streaming devices?

Google streaming devices aren't guaranteed to work with general cables. We recommend that you use the cables and adapters provided with the streaming device for optimal performance.

I can't tell which of my devices need to be set up.

When you plug your Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast with Google TV, or Google TV Streamer into your TV and select its HDMI port, the name of the device will be displayed in the corner with a Cast icon next to it . During setup, a list of device names shows up. Select the name that matches the name displayed on your TV.

When setting up a Chromecast Audio device, during the setup process, a sound will be played on the Chromecast Audio to make sure the right device is being set up.

My Chromecast won't fit into my TVs HDMI port. What should I do?

If you're using a Chromecast (1st gen) device, try using the HDMI extender that came in the Chromecast box. The extender may also improve your Wi-Fi reception.

The Google TV home screen isn't on my display device after setting up my streaming device.
You're likely using the incorrect input. Press the input or source button on your TV’s remote control to change the input until you're on the Google TV home screen.
I am having trouble setting up my streaming device. Where can I get help?
How do I factory reset my device?

Review the How to factory reset your Chromecast and Google TV Streamer to reset your streaming device correctly.

Do I need to disable AP or Client isolation on my router?

Yes. You'll need to disable AP isolation, also known as client isolation, on your router. Refer to your router documentation to learn how to disable AP isolation.

If you don't have access to your router settings, or if you are attempting to connect through a guest, hotel, or public network with AP or client isolation, you'll be unable to set up your streaming device.

If you're attempting to connect through a Wi-Fi extender, check your extender settings. You'll need to disable AP isolation on your Wi-Fi extender before setting up your streaming device to work with your Wi-Fi network.

How do I know my firmware version?

To check the Build (Firmware Version) number of your streaming device:

  1. Open the Google Home app Google Home app.
  2. Touch and hold your device's tile.
  3. Tap Settings settings iconand then Device information.
  4. Under "Technical information," check for Cast firmware version: "X.XXX.XXXXX."
How do I find my serial number?

To locate a streaming device's serial number, unplug the streaming device and find the markings on the back. The serial number begins with a 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7. The serial number is also listed on the device box.

  • Chromecast 1st Gen, 2nd Gen, and Audio: 12-character alphanumeric characters
  • Chromecast 3rd Gen and Ultra: 10-character alphanumeric characters.
  • Chromecast with Google TV and Chromecast Voice Remote: 14-character alphanumeric characters.

Google TV Streamer (4K) and Google TV Streamer Voice Remote: 14-character alphanumeric characters.

On Chromecast (1st gen)

The device’s 12-character serial number is located near the High-Definition Multimedia (HDMI) connector, just below where it says HDMI.

On Chromecast (2nd gen)

The device’s 12-character serial number is located near the USB port, opposite of where it says HDMI.

On Chromecast (3rd gen)

The device’s 10-character serial number is located on the underside device, more specifically, along the circumference or rounded edges of the Chromecast, right side of where it says HDMI.

On Chromecast Audio

The device’s 12-character serial number is located near the USB plug

On Chromecast Ultra

The device’s 10-character serial number is located near the USB port and at the opposite end of where it says HDMI.

On Chromecast with Google TV

  1. The Chromecast with Google TV's 14-character serial number is printed at the back of the dongle.
  2. The serial number is also listed on a sticker on the Chromecast with Google TV packaging near the barcodes.

On Google TV Streamer

1.The Google TV Streamer’s 14-character alphanumeric serial number is located at the bottom surface of the device right under the G logo.

2. The serial number is also listed on a sticker on the Google TV Streamer packaging near the barcodes.

How does my streaming device receive updates?
All streaming device updates are rolled out gradually to users and your device will update automatically. Once an update is available, it can take up to 2 weeks for it to reach your device. It’s important that your streaming device is plugged into a wall power and connected to your wireless network during this time. Follow the steps below to try and activate an available update if you think your device may be eligible:
  1. Leave your Chromecast or Google TV Streamer plugged in and connected to your WiFi network for at least one minute. We recommend that you plug your streaming device into wall power using the USB power cable and power adapter that was provided in the box.
  2. After one minute, reboot your streaming device.
Can I move the Chromecast or Google TV Streamer to a new TV?
Yes, all streaming devices are built with portability in mind. You can move them from room to room for use with other HDMI enabled display devices. You won’t need to set up your streaming devices again. As long as your they're still connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you'll be able to cast right away.
I've already set up my Chromecast or Google TV Streamer. How can I change the WiFi network my streaming device is connected to?
To change the Wi-Fi network connected to a streaming device, follow the steps below:
  1. Open the Google Home appGoogle Home app.
  2. Touch and hold the streaming device's tile you'd like to connect to a different Wi-Fi network.
  3. Tap Settings and then Wi-Fi and then Forget.
  4. You'll need to set up your Chromecast, Chromecast with Google TV, or Google TV Streamer device again on a new network.
Can I take the streaming device with me to use when I travel?
Yes, you can bring it with you when you travel, but keep in mind that you'll need Wi-Fi access to set up and use the streaming device.

Note: Chromecast and Google TV Streamer devices only work with networks which allow device to device communication. If the router or network on which you’re attempting to set up the streaming device has AP or client isolation enabled (typical of hotel rooms, school networks, and corporate environments), you won't be able to set up your streaming device properly. Disable AP or client isolation on your router to set up streaming device again. If you need assistance disabling AP or client isolation on your router, contact your router manufacturer.
How can I name or rename my streaming device?
During setup you have the ability to "name" your streaming device to distinguish it from others, for example "Lulu’s Chromecast" or "Living Room." You can also rename your streaming device later from the Google Home app.
What type of video and audio support do Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer have?
For details on the available video and audio support for Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer, refer to Meet Google TV Streamer (4k).

Casting

I’m trying to cast music from Spotify but can’t find the Cast icon in its usual place. Where is it?
Typically the Cast icon is in the top right corner of Cast-enabled apps. For Spotify, you’ll find the option to cast at the bottom of your screen. Tap Devices Available to check available devices. Choose the device you want to cast to.
How do I stop casting from Spotify?
To stop casting from Spotify, tap Devices Available and select the name of the device you’re casting from. You should now only hear music from your local device and not on your speakers.
Can I use Cast while in Chrome incognito mode?
Yes. Follow these instructions to Cast a Chrome tab on your TV.
What's so great about Cast-enabled sites?
While casting a site's tab works well, there are numerous benefits to using controls provided by the site instead of just casting the tab for that site. Here are all the benefits to using a Cast-enabled site vs. casting a tab.
Can I cast my Android screen while in "Power Save Mode"?
Turn off "Power Saving Mode" for the Android device you're using to cast content. Enabling "Power Saving Mode" can limit the processing power of that device which could affect the performance of the Cast Screen feature.
Can 2 people with compatible devices and apps cast to the TV at the same time?

No. Only one person with a compatible device and app can cast to your streaming device at a time. If one person is casting and another other initiates casting as well, it will override what’s currently playing.

General help

I'm a developer interested in developing for Cast and/or streaming devices. Where can I find more information?
If you're a developer interested in finding out more about developing for Cast and/or streaming devices, visit developers.google.com/cast.
What is CEC? https://support.google.com/chromecast/answer/15157762
CEC, or Consumer Electronics Control, allows for HDMI devices to be controlled with one remote control. If your television has CEC support, you may be able to turn on and change the input on your TV using your phone, tablet or computer while using your streaming device. Please note that for CEC to work (if CEC is supported by your TV), your streaming device must be powered by a power outlet.

Manufacturers often call CEC by different names, including Anynet+ (Samsung), Aquos Link (Sharp), BRAVIA Link and BRAVIA Sync (Sony), HDMI-CEC (Hitachi), CE-Link and Regza Link (Toshiba), SimpLink (LG), HDAVI Control, EZ-Sync, VIERA Link (Panasonic), EasyLink (Philips), and NetCommand for HDMI (Mitsubishi).
What is HDMI?
Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast with Google TV, and Google TV Streamer require a display device that has an HDMI input, which is common in newer TVs. HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface.
What do I do if I need a replacement streaming device?

If you purchased your Chromecast or Google TV Streamer from Google Store or an authorized streaming device retailer and are in need of a replacement, contact us for assistance.

Note: Proof of purchase is required.

If you purchased your streaming device from someone other than a Google-authorized retailer, your purchase is not covered by our warranty. Review our Warranty policy here.

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