Application chromecast receives a good number of new features in the latest version that Google is releasing (1.9.6) and, for example, the development already offers a redesigned interface that uses Material Design -which makes it a perfect fit for the Mountain View company's new Android Lollipop project.
Apart from the changes in the appearance of the application, which are very obvious and not bad at all, there are new features that are added to the development that are most interesting and that expand its usability in a very clear way. For example, it is now possible to make mirroring from any device using the operating system Android 4.4.2 or higher. Therefore, the number of compatible terminals increases exponentially.
Of course, for the moment Google itself has indicated that the synchronization can give some problems or slightly longer delays than expected when displaying images on the TV, but this is something that will be solved gradually - but compatibility is complete. By the way, it should be remembered that the Guest mode it is already effective in chromecast, so it is possible that a signal is emitted from a compatible device to one of these players simply by activating it (and without the need for it to have access to the corresponding WiFi network).
Download and install the new version
If you don't want to wait for the notification from Google Play about the arrival of the update, in this link you can get the new version of Chromecast (specifically the installation APK). Once achieved, all you have to do is click on it and follow the steps that appear on the screen, without this posing any risk to the integrity of your phone or tablet.
If you want to know others developments for Google's operating system, a this section of Android Help You may find one that interests you among the many that exist and are listed.
Redesigned interface and expanded mirroring
The app adopted Material Design with new layers, smooth animations and a revamped icon, making it easier to locate the button Send screen and device management. This redesign improves accessibility, section navigation, and consistency with other Google apps.
Screen Cast Compatibility and Usage
To do mirroring just open the Chromecast app and access the option send screen. On some devices you can also do this from the taskbar. quick settingsThis feature is being tested and Google guarantees optimal performance on certain models, and may appear time delay if the network is not stable.
Google Play | Chromecast (Mirror)
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Guest mode and supported devices
El Guest mode Allows you to cast content to a nearby Chromecast without sharing Wi-Fi, ideal for guests. Official mirroring support also includes the following devices, among others:
- Nexus 4
- Nexus 5
- Nexus 7 (2013)
- Nexus 10
- Samsung Galaxy S4
- Samsung Galaxy S4 (Google Play Edition)
- Samsung Galaxy S5
- Samsung Galaxy Note 3
- Samsung Galaxy Note 10
- HTC One M7
- HTC One M7 (Google Play Edition)
- LG G3
- LG G2
- LG G Pro 2
Google Home: the current control center
The Chromecast app evolved to Google Home to centralize speakers, screens, lights, cameras, and TVs. Improvements include a updated home view with quick controls, dark theme, control of several rooms, easy linking of media accounts, routines, and network utilities such as import Google Wifi, view bandwidth per device and detect devices with poor connection.
Alternative for streaming: Video & TV Cast
If you're looking for send web videos without reflecting the entire screen, Video & TV Cast is a popular option developed by 2kit consulting. It has more than 10 million downloads and an approximate valuation of 7,5/10 based on tens of thousands of reviews. Allows you to submit forms MP4, m3u8 y Hls over HTTPS in quality Full HD, and is compatible with devices Chromecast and Google Cast/Android TV.
Does not reproduce content protected by DRM (like Netflix or Prime Video) nor does full mirroring; it detects the video link embedded in the web and sends it to the TV. It may require a few seconds of playing on the mobile to identify the link. Includes support for local videos, detection of web subtitles or with a AI ad blocker. Its permissions are minimal and it offers reimbursement within the first 24 hours according to the purchase ID. In case of problems, they recommend restarting your phone, Chromecast, and router, or writing to their support emails.
Troubleshooting common problems
If a Chromecast appears as connecting, disappears from apps like Spotify or the settings stay at “allow Cast to use network information”, try the following:
- Reboot mobile, Chromecast and router and check that they are all on the same network and band (2,4 or 5 GHz).
- Deactivate VPN, battery saving or AP isolation on the router; enable multicast/IGMP.
- Grants permits of location to Google Home and turn on Bluetooth and WiFi for nearby detection.
- Erase cache and data from Google Home/Google Play Services; update router firmware.
- As a last resort, perform a factory reset from the Chromecast and set it up in a new “home.”
With the renewed interface, mirroring for Android 4.4.2 or higher, the practical one Guest mode and the ecosystem of Google Home, Chromecast is still a solid solution for getting your content to your TV; and if you'd rather just send video from your browser, options like Video & TV Cast further expand the possibilities.
