Google’s first Chromecast was successful. With 10 million models offered in 2014, it excelled as a straightforward answer for streaming TV and flicks from the Web to a TV. Launched at a time when dumb TVs had been extra frequent, the first-generation Chromecast has a simplicity you don’t discover in streaming units as of late. Press “Solid” in an app, choose a TV with a Chromecast, and begin watching. Foregoing extras like a UI or adverts, the system stays lively in some properties at present, regardless of Google ending help for the $35 system in 2023.
Nevertheless, this week it appeared like these days had been over. Quite a few individuals reported that their authentic Chromecast had all of a sudden stopped casting from in style apps, together with Chrome, YouTube, and Paramount+. This introduced concern that the unique Chromecast was actually lifeless now. A Reddit thread began by somebody who claimed to have two first-gen Chromecasts all of a sudden cease working on the similar time contains varied responses from individuals who suspected that Google bricked the units with the intention to pressure upgrades.
However Sahana Mysore, senior product supervisor for Google Residence, instructed Ars Technica at present that Google didn’t kill the units, saying:
Earlier this week, a technical concern quickly disrupted casting for some Gen 1 Google Chromecast customers. Our crew rapidly recognized the basis trigger and resolved the difficulty.
The entire units ought to be working now, per Mysore. As of final night time, some individuals on-line have reported that their Chromecasts are working once more.
Ars requested what precisely the technical concern was and can replace this text if we be taught extra.
One other level of stress for homeowners of older Chromecasts this week is a report at present that Google has ended help for each Chromecast aside from the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) from 2022. Nevertheless, as of this writing, the help web page nonetheless lists all Chromecasts besides the first-gen Chromecast as “presently receiving crucial safety updates.”
