Google Chromecast is a total entertainment solution and here’s everything you need to know to fully
What is Chromecast
Chromecast, from the word itself, is casting using your Chrome app. Launched by Google in July 2013, Chromecast is an HDMI dongle that connects your mobile device or desktop computer into your HDTV via Wi-Fi.
After selling millions of units, creating thousands of mobile and web apps, and releasing tens of updates since its official launching, Chromecast today is a total entertainment solution that revolutionizes our viewing experience at home, at work, on travel, anywhere.
Chromecast is brilliant!
How to Setup Chromecast
As what most experts are saying, it’s as easy as one, two, three. And I agree. But for the convenience of everybody, let me list down this quick setup process with four.
1. HDTV: Unbox the Chromecast package and you’ll see these four items: Chromecast, USB connector cable, USB power adaptor, HDMI cable extension. Plug-in the Chromecast on the HDMI port of your TV, plug-in the USB cable to the unit and power source and then set the HDTV input to that HDMI port. You’ll see “Set Me Up” on the screen.
2. Device: Download and install the right Chromecast app to your device (Android, iOS, Windows, Mac). Simply follow the installation procedure.
3. Connectivity: Launch the Chromecast app. You’ll notice that it will automatically detect the Chromecast device plugged into the HDTV. You’ll be prompted to verify the 4-character code appearing on your device if it matches with the code displayed on your TV. Next is to configure the Wi-Fi connectivity between your device, Chromecast and current Wi-Fi network.
4. Chrome-casting: You’re now ready to cast from your device via Chrome app. Tap the cast button and you’re now seeing the mirror of your device into the TV. But that’s only the basics of casting. You can download Chromecast apps, explore the cast settings both on your device and TV, and enjoy.
Apps for Chromecast
Total entertainment with Chromecast is all about the apps. And it all depends on your lifestyle or mood-of-the-day on what stuff to watch or view. But let me give your some fresh ideas.
If you love to stream video clips, TV shows or movies, YouTube, Plex, Netflix, HBO GO and WatchESPN are just some of the famous apps you need to grab.
Looking for fantastic games? Twitch, Big Web Quiz and Just Dance are the most popular game apps right now. Give them a try.
There are thousands of apps out there. Explore them and get entertained.
More About Chromecast
What’s great about Google, when they’re selling products to consumers, is that they also want them to get involve. Google Cast SDK is what I am talking about. Developers who want to create their own Cast-ready app are welcome to do their part using this software development kit.
Google never stops innovating. The Chromecast Guest Mode is an additional feature allowing your guests to cast on your HDTV without giving them access to your Wi-Fi. Another upcoming innovation from the tech giant is the “Google Cast for Audio”.
Let me share a few more stuffs.
Did you know that with Chromecast, you can use your mobile device as the remote control for your TV? Yes and the way to do that is to enable the HDMI-CEC on your HDTV. I’m leaving that cool stuff for you to explore.
Google Chromecast, by the way, is only $35.
I think I had shared almost everything to get you going, at least, with Google Chromecast. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to Chromecast!
