All About Chromecast

A Comprehensive Guide to Enabling and Using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) on Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV

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A Comprehensive Guide to Enabling and Using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) on Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV

By enabling and connecting to a Google TV streamer (or Chromecast with Google TV, or other Android TV devices) via the Android Debug Bridge, you gain a level of control and customization that is otherwise inaccessible. The capabilities unlocked—including sideloading applications, removing unwanted system software, accessing the underlying file system, and executing powerful shell commands—transform the device from a simple media player into a flexible and highly configurable computing platform.

This Chromecast how-to guide explains what Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is, how it works, and how to enable and use ADB to gain full control of your Google TV Streamer (or Chromecast with Google TV). Some most useful ADB commands for managing your Google TV Streamer are also listed.

Please note this guide applies to Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV (both 4K and HD versions). Other Chromecast devices (Chromecast 1st Gen, 2nd Gen, and 3rd Gen) are not running Android and, therefore, cannot be accessed via ADB.

This guide also applies to most Android TV boxes (and Android phones and tablets).

What is Android Debug Bridge (ADB)?

The Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is part of the platform tools included in the … Continue to read the post....

Google TV Streamer vs Chromecast with Google TV: Everything you need to know

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Google TV Streamer vs Chromecast with Google TV: Everything you need to know

Google TV Streamer will replace Chromecast with Google TV 4K/HD (the only Chromecast device in the market now) in September 2024. Is this the end of the Chromecast? How about Google TV Streamer vs Chromecast with Google TV?

This Chromecast guide answers questions you may have about the transition to Google TV Streamer and the comparison of Google TV Streamer vs Chromecast with Google TV. The guide will also explain the differences between Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV, the improvements, and the new features of the Google TV Streamer.

Chromecast with Google TV has two versions: 4K (up to 4K 60fps) and HD (up to 1080p). In this post, they will not be distinguished. Unless the HD version is singled out, you can assume it refers to the 4K version.

Does it mean the end of Chromecast? No, Chromecast has been just a software feature since Chromecast with Google TV.

Google already stopped Chromecast devices when Chromecast with Google TV was released in 2020.

Chromecast with Google TV is essentially an Android TV (switched from Chrome OS) with a Google TV UI in the name of Chromecast. It can do everything Chromecast (and Chromecast Ultra) … Continue to read the post....

How to watch YouTube without ads on Chromecast with Google TV (without YouTube Premium) and on Google TV Streamer?

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watch YouTube without ads on Chromecast with Google TV (without YouTube Premium)

Many Chromecast owners are not aware that they can watch YouTube without ads on Chromecast with Google TV without paying for YouTube Premium.

YouTube ads have become less relevant to users in recent years, and therefore, many Chromecast owners want to use YouTube without ads.

This Chromecast how-to guide shows you step-by-step instructions for installing the free SmartTube app on Chromecast with Google TV to watch YouTube without ads for free.

Please note you can install apps on Chromecast with Google TV (both HD and 4K models. Both also support Fast Pair). The older Chromecast dongles (those without a voice remote control) do not have this capability because they are not based on Android.

Update: the new Google TV Streamer is just an update for Chromecast with Google TV, You can use SmartTube on it to enjoy ad-free YouTube, just like on Chromecast with Google TV. This guide also applies to Google TV Streamer.

An alternative route to sideload the SmartTube app is through ADB commands.

The requirements for watching YouTube without ads for free on Chromecast with Google TV

In order to watch YouTube videos without ads for free on Chromecast with Google TV, you need … Continue to read the post....

How to use Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV to pair headphones and earbuds with Chromecast?

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How to use Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV to pair headphones and earbuds with Chromecast?

As announced in CES 2024, you can now use Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV to pair headsets (with Chromecast) after applying the February update.

This Chromecast how-to guide explains what Fast Pair is, how to use Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV to pair headphones/earbuds with Chromecast, and how to manage audio output devices for Chromecast with Google TV. Finally, a list of popular headphones and earbuds that support Fast Pair is provided.

Fast Pair support was added to all models (e.g., 4K and HD models) of Chromecast with Google. So, this guide applies to all models and generations of Chromecast with Google TV. Fast Pair is also supported on Google TV Streamer, the successor to Chromecast with Google TV. You can also use this guide if you are an owner of Google TV Streamer.

Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV is a built-in feature, and you do not need to enable developer options.

What is Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV?

Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV is not new. Google introduced Google Fast Pair Service (GFPS) in 2017 with Pixel Buds for Android devices. It was later referred to … Continue to read the post....

How to enable developer options in Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer?

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enable developer options in Chromecast with Google TV

The developer options in Chromecast with Google TV allow you to access some advanced features of Android TV, e.g., sideloading apps directly through ADB commands.

This Chromecast with Google TV guide explains what you can do with developer options in Chromecast with Google TV and how to enable it for the dongle.

Please note this guide applies to Chromecast with Google TV only. Other Chromecast devices (all previous generations of Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, and Chromecast Audio) are not powered by Android.

Update: there are now two versions of Chromecast with Google TV: the HD version (up to 1080p full HD, [email protected]) and the 4K version (up to 4K, same as the original one @49.99). This guide applies to both of them.

Update 2: You can watch YouTube videos without ads by using the SmartTube app.

Update 3: Google TV Streamer is the successor to Chromecast with Google TV. You can use developer options on Google TV Streamer, just like on Chromecast with Google TV.

What can you do with developer options in Chromecast with Google TV?

Chromecast with Google TV differs from previous generations of Chromecast in two major aspects, as explained in this post:… Continue to read the post....

Meaning of LED light on voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer

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Meaning of LED light on voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV

The LED light on the voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer can give you some quick information about the status of the remote.

This Chromecast with Google TV guide explains the meaning of the LED light on the voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer to help you understand the status of the remote correctly.

Please note that this guide only applies to the official voice remote, which is bundled with the Chromecast with Google TV (both the 4K and HD versions) and the latest Google TV Streamer.

You may get a replacement from Google Store. Third-party Android TV remote controls may have totally different designs. The meaning of LED lights on these third-party remotes, if present, depends on the manufacturer. Google TV Streamer is the successor to Chromecast with Google TV. This guide applies to both.

Where is the LED light on the voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV?

As explained in this guide and shown in the picture above, the LED light is located in the lower part of the front panel below the Power button and the input source switch button.

When it is not … Continue to read the post....

Master the Voice Remote for Chromecast with Google TV and Google TV Streamer

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Master the Voice Remote for Chromecast with Google TV

Voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV is one of the signature features of the latest Chromecast device.  It transforms the casting dongle into a full-featured setup box.

You can still cast videos from any mobile device to the Chromecast with Google TV as you did with previous generations of Chromecast (Chromecast, Chromecast 2nd gen/2015, and Chromecast 3rd gen/2018), or Chromecast Ultra.  But the Google TV interface adds tons of new features and possibilities. The voice remote is an indispensable accessory for enjoying these new features.

This Chromecast guide explains what the voice remote for Chromecast with Google TV can do, the layout of the voice remote and the functions of each button/part, and how to control Chromecast with Google TV if you cannot find the voice remote.

Update: Google TV Streamer now replaces Chromecast with Google TV. This guide also applies to Google TV Streamer.

What can Voice Remote for Chromecast with Google TV do?

If you use Chromecast with Google TV as a passive receiving device, you probably do not need the remote. But you missed a lot of features of the dongle.

The voice remote helps you use the Chromecast with … Continue to read the post....

Chromecast 4th Gen (Chromecast with Google TV) is coming!

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Chromecast 4th Gen (Chromecast with Google TV)

Very likely, Google will reveal the 4th Gen of Chromecast on September 30, 2020. But the details of the Chromecast 4th Gen (aka Chromecast with Google TV, or Chromecast 2020) were leaked. A few retailers have released the product inadvertently.

Google TV here simply means Google-branded Android TV (not the old Google TV). It is not a new platform. Instead, it is a new form factor (dongle) for Android TV.

This post will summarize the key features of the Chromecast 4th Gen (Chromecast with Google TV) compared to the 3rd Gen of Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra.

Update 1: you can now use Fast Pair on Chromecast with Google TV to quickly pair headphones and earbuds with Chromecast.

Update 2: It is very easy to use SmartTube to watch YourTube without ads (without YouTube Premium) on Chromecast with Google TV.

Update 3: After 4 years, Chromecast with Google TV now has a successor: Google TV Streamer.

Chromecast 4th Gen converges Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra

The new Chromecast (4th gen, Chromecast 2020) is a natural successor to the 3rd Gen of Chromecast (Chromecast 2018).

But Google worked the extra mile. The Chromecast with Google TV … Continue to read the post....

How to use Chromecast to stream music to dumb speakers (as Chromecast Audio does)?

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How to use Chromecast to stream music to dumb speakers (as Chromecast Audio does)?

Although Chromecast Audio was discontinued, you can still make your vintage speakers or favourite AVR systems alive by using Chromecast to stream music to dumb speakers, just like what Chromecast Audio does.

Of course, this may require additional setup and one additional gadget (a few bucks) unless your speaker or AV supports HDMI input.

This Chromecast guide explains why you may consider using Chromecast to stream music to dumb speakers and how to set up the system so that you can continue streaming music to the speakers and AV systems without Chromecast Audio.

Update: the latest Chromecast 2020 (Chromecast with Google TV; Chromecast 4th Gen) merges Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, and Android TV. There is no successor to Chromecast Audio. The Android TV OS enables some useful features, e.g., accessing Google Play Store, enabling developer options, and sideloading apps. The voice remote also added new ways to control the Chromecast with Google TV.

Update 2: Google TV Streamer now replaces Chromecast with Google TV. You may use the HDMI output of Google TV Streamer for your AV system or dumb speakers.

Why do you want to use Chromecast (or Chromecast Ultra) as Chromecast

… Continue to read the post....

How to Chromecast Amazon Prime Video to your TV?

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How to Chromecast Amazon Prime Video to your TV?

In July 2019, Amazon Prime Video finally supported Chromecast, and you can easily Chromecast Amazon Prime Video on your TV.

Now, you can enjoy the Prime videos on the TV without a Fire TV dongle/box/cube. Chromecast and the Amazon Prime Video app are the only requirements.

This Chromecast how-to guide explains how to use Chromecast to stream Amazon Prime videos and the difference between Chromecast and Watch on Second Screen.

Update 1: Chromecast with Google TV (the 4th Gen of Chromecast) and Google TV Streamer are running on Android TV OS. You can install Amazon Prime Video apps from the Google Play Store directly on Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer. You can enable developer options and even sideload apps on these devices. For example, you can sideload the SmartTube app to watch YouTube without ads (and it is free.).

Fire TV vs. Chromecast

For a long time, Amazon has fought against Google on all fronts.

Chromecast was banned on the Amazon platform. Fire tablets removed anything related to Google. Amazon used Bing instead of Google as the default search engine on their devices.

Google fought back by removing YouTube support on all Amazon devices (Fire … Continue to read the post....

What’s new in Chromecast 2018 (3rd gen of Chromecast)?

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What's new in Chromecast 2018 (3rd gen of Chromecast)?

On October 9, 2018, Google announced the 3rd generation of Chromecast (Chromecast 2018) as the successor of the 2nd generation of Chromecast (Chromecast 2015).

There is no update for Chromecast Ultra or Chromecast Audio this year. Update: Google discontinued Chromecast Audio in early 2019.

This Chromecast guide explains the new features of Chromecast 2018 (3rd gen of Chromecast) and whether it is worth updating your Chromecast.

The successor of Chromecast 2018, Chromecast with Google TV (Chromecast 2020; Chromecast 4th Gen), was released on September 30, 2020.  Google TV Streamer is the current product replacing Chromecast with Google TV. 

What are the new features in Chromecast 2018 (3rd gen of Chromecast)?

Chromecast 2018 is a minor update to Chromecast 2015 (2nd gen Chromecast). So, there are no jaw-dropping new features in Chromecast 2018.

Because Chromecast is so unique that there are no serious direct competitors in the market, it is hard to judge whether Chromecast 2018 is behind or ahead of the industry trends.

But one thing is sure your $35 will be well spent if you do not own a Chromecast or Chromecast Ultra now.

As Google stopped selling the 2nd-generation Chromecast, you will get the latest Chromecast 2018 … Continue to read the post....

How to use VLC media player on PC to stream music and video to Chromecast and Chromecast Audio?

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use VLC media player on PC to stream music and video to Chromecast and Chromecast AudioChromecast support was finally introduced in VLC media player 3.0. So, you can now easily use VLC media player on PC to stream music and video to Chromecast and Chromecast Audio.

This adds one more method to stream local media files to Chromecast and Chromecast Audio.

Please note, Google Home, Google Hoem Mini, and Google Home Max also support Chromecast. This means you can also use VLC media player on PC to stream music to those Google Home devices. Therefore, this guide also applies to Google Home devices.

The advantages of using VLC media player on PC to stream music and video to Chromecast, Chromecast Audio, and Google Home

If you have an extensive collection of music and movies in the hard drive, you can stream them to TV with Chromecast or Chromecast Audio with various methods.

Chromecast is officially supported in VLC media player 3.0.  So, you have one more method to stream local media (music and video) to Chromecast and Chromecast Audio.

Compared to other six methods of streaming local music and video to Chromecast and Chromcast Audio, the VLC media player method has several advantages including:

  • Free.
  • Open source.  If the development
… Continue to read the post....

How to use VLC for Android to stream local media to Chromecast?

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use VLC for Android to stream local media to Chromecast

With version 2.9.1, you can now use VLC for Android to stream local media to Chromecast. Videos and music files of all formats supported by the VLC media player can now be streamed to Chromecast. Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast Audio, Google Home, Google Home Mini and Google Home Max. In this guide, I will try to use Chromecast to represent them all, instead of listing them all.

For PC users, you can stream local video and music files to Chromecast very easily with VLC media player version 3.0 RC2 or later.

This Chromecast guide shows you how to use VLC for Android to stream local media to Chromecast: installing the app, enrolling in the Android beta program, streaming local media with VLC for Android, and Chromecast streaming controls for VLC for Android.

Update 1: with the release of VLC 3.0, Chromecast is officially supported. Therefore, it is not necessary to join the beta program to use VLC for Android to stream local media to Chromecast. PC users can use the VLC media player to stream local music and videos to Chromecast, Chromecast Audio, and Google Home devices, as detailed in this guide.

Update 2: the 4th … Continue to read the post....

How to use Chromecast Ultra to stream 4K content?

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use Chromecast Ultra to stream 4K contents

If you want to stream 4K content among the Chromecast family (Chromecast, Chromecast Audio, and Chromecast Ultra), only Chromecast Ultra (update: and the Chromecast 2020, aka Chromecast with Google TV) has this capability. Google TV Streamer also supports 4K streaming.

But a lot of Chromecast Ultra owners found they cannot stream 4K content with Chromecast Ultra.

What are the possible causes? What are the solutions?

This Chromecast guide first explains the requirements of using Chromecast to stream 4K content, then shows you the solutions for some problems related to streaming 4K content with Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast with Google TV, and Google TV Streamer.

The 6 requirements of using Chromecast Ultra to stream 4K contents

Chromecast Ultra is a very powerful streaming gadget.

You can use Chromecast Ultra to stream 4K Ultra HD content with HDR.  While normal Chromecast (Chromecast and Chromecast 2nd Generation)  can only stream full HD content (1080p) without HDR.

Although Chromecast does not require a 4K TV, there are a few requirements to meet if you want to use Chromecast Ultra to stream 4K content, including:

  1. a 4K TV;
  2. fast internet connection (at least 10-20Mbps);
  3. HDCP 2.2  support;
  4. the original power
… Continue to read the post....

How to disable Google Home and Chromecast casting notification?

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What is the Google Home and Chromecast casting notification?

With the release of Google Home, the Google cast app was renamed as Google Home app.

Now, Chromecast (including Chromecast Ultra), Chromecast Audio and Google Home are all managed by the same Google Home app.

One of the new features in Google Home app (through Google Play services on the phone) is the Google Home and Chromecast casting notification (remote control notifications) in all mobile devices that are connected to the same network as the casting devices.

This means, by default, all mobile devices (with a Google account and the latest Google app) in the same network as casting devices now get the casting notification (remote control notification) when any of the casting devices is casting.

Here casting devices include Chromecast, Chromecast 2nd Gen, Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast Audio and Google Home.

For example, when Google Play music is playing music to Chromecast Audio, you will see the notification in other Android  phones as shown below.

This notification appears not only on the device you initiated the casting, but also all other mobile devices in the same network, by default.

So, any devices can control the playback remotely through … Continue to read the post....

Chromecast Ultra vs Chromecast 2nd Gen

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Chromecast Ultra vs Chromecast 2nd GenOn October 4, 2016, Google announced a new $69 (not $35) Chromecast device: Chromecast Ultra.

This actually is the 3rd generation of Chromecast. Chromecast (1st gen) was released in  2013. Chromecast 2nd gen and Chromecast Audio (which were discontinued in 2019) were announced in 2015.

This post will try to help you understand the differences between Chromecast 2nd Gen and Chromecast Ultra, and help you decide whether you need a Chromecast Ultra.

Chromecast 3rd gen (Chromecast 2018) and Chromecast 4th gen (Chromecast 2020; Chromecast with Google TV) are also available in the market now.

Is Chromecast Ultra for 4K TV only?

One of the most prominent features of Chromecast Ultra is supporting 4K video streaming.

But this does NOT mean Chromecast Ultra is only for 4K TV owners.

If you only have a Full HD (1080p) TV, compared to Chromecast 2nd gen,  Chromecast Ultra can still offer some nice new and improved features:

  • High Dynamic Range (HDR) support. Of course, HDR contents are still very limited. YouTube and Google Play will gradually join Netflix and Amazon for streaming HDR contents. HDR-ready TV is also needed to enjoy the benefits. We will discuss this in detail in
… Continue to read the post....