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Google Nest, Chromecast & smart homeMedium2 min read

Setting up a Chromecast with Google TV or an older Chromecast

A Chromecast plugs into a spare HDMI socket on your TV. Chromecast with Google TV comes with its own remote and is set up on screen with a phone. Older Chromecast sticks have no remote and use only the Google Home app. Google has stopped selling some models, but existing ones are still in use. Apps change their wording and menus from time to time, so what you see may differ slightly from the steps below.

What you need

  • A TV with a free HDMI socket and a nearby power source.
  • Your home Wi-Fi name and password.
  • A phone with the Google Home app.

Plug it in

  1. Plug the Chromecast into the HDMI socket on the back or side of your TV.
  2. Connect its power cable to the mains plug that came with it. The USB socket on a TV is often too weak, so use the mains adaptor if you have problems.
  3. Switch the TV on and choose the HDMI input the Chromecast is plugged into.

Chromecast with Google TV

  1. Put the batteries into the remote and follow the on-screen instructions.
  2. Pair the remote when asked, then choose your language.
  3. On the TV, choose the option to set up with your phone. Follow the steps in the Google Home app, or set up on the TV screen using the remote.
  4. Sign in with your Google account and pick your Wi-Fi.

Older Chromecast (no remote)

  1. Open the Google Home app on your phone.
  2. Tap + and set up a new device. The app finds the Chromecast.
  3. Confirm the code shown on the TV matches the phone, then choose your Wi-Fi and enter the password.

Good to know

  • Keep the Chromecast and your phone on the same Wi-Fi network when casting.
  • Give it a few minutes if it installs an update, and do not unplug it.

When to get more help

Get help if the Chromecast is not found by the app, sticks on the logo or update screen, or you do not have the Wi-Fi details. Do not use the reset button until we say so, as it wipes the device and starts again from scratch.

Did this help? If you are still stuck, email Vision Tech and tell us what you can see on the screen. Menus and button names can differ slightly between versions and makes. If something does not match, stop and ask rather than guess.

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