Chromecast is the most popular and affordable product that Google sells. Since 2013, the accessory has collected fans and admirers thanks to its utility of transforming any TV with an HDMI input into a complete Smart TV.
What is Chromecast?
Little bigger than a flash drive, Chromecast brings an intelligent interface to any TV when connected to the HDMI input. With the help of a Wi-Fi connection, the accessory transforms this interface into a “smart portal” that receives mirrored content from the cell phone through compatible applications.
As it is an independent accessory, the Chromecast needs the power to work, so the user will have to connect it to the TV’s USB port, if any, or directly to an outlet. In the box, the accessory comes with a socket and a USB cable.
Chromecast works thanks to Google Cast technology, similar to Miracast, which uses a Wi-Fi connection to transmit audio and video on monitors and TVs. Of course, the quality of the connection will depend on the stability of the signal and its speed.
What apps support Chromecast?
In addition to apps, Chromecast also supports simpler games like Just Dance Now. The full list of compatible games is available on the Google Play Store at this link. Among the apps, Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify, YouTube, HBO Go, Globoplay, Apple Music, and others stand out.
Other apps, like the photo galleries of some UIs and web browsers, support Chromecast and are outside of Google Play. Any app with the casting icon for Chromecast can be mirrored to the accessory connected to the TV over Wi-Fi.
What is the difference between Chromecast 1, 2, and 3?
Since 2013, Google has released four versions of Chromecast: first generation, second, third, and Ultra (Chromecast Ultra is not sold in Brazil). The most powerful version released to date is Ultra, which supports 4K resolution videos and the latest imaging technologies such as HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Regarding the other three models, the main differences between them are:
- Chromecast 1: supports Full HD resolution (1080p) and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network;
- Chromecast 2: supports Full HD, HD (720p) resolution at 60 fps (60 frames per second) and 5 GHz Wi-Fi network;
- Chromecast 3: Supports Full HD resolution at 60 fps and 5 GHz Wi-Fi network.
There are also changes in the design, with Google changing the shape to resemble a flash drive for a circular look from the second generation onwards, which comes with a flexible wire coupled with the HDMI connection at the end.
Do you still use it, have you used it, or are you a fan of Chromecast? Tell us there in the comments.
