Google recently launched Chromecast, a small device designed to stream internet and browser-based video to your television. This “Dongle Style” gadget plugs directly into an HDMI port, offering a remarkably simple way to bring online content to the big screen. After initial hands-on experience, here are our first impressions and answers to common questions.
It’s crucial to understand that Chromecast isn’t intended to be a full-fledged media center like Apple TV or TiVo. It operates on a fundamentally different principle. Think of it as a bridge: if you find content on the web that you want to watch on your TV, Chromecast provides an incredibly easy, portable, and affordable method to do so. It’s also designed to work with smartphone apps using the Google Cast API, with initial support from key apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Google Play for Android users.
Network performance is a key consideration. A stable Wi-Fi signal is essential, as is a reliable internet connection for streaming online content. Our initial attempts to set up Chromecast in a location with poor Wi-Fi reception were unsuccessful. The video and audio faltered, leading to a frustrating experience.
However, with a strong connection, the setup process is incredibly smooth. After our initial setback, we tried setting it up at home. Aiming for a straightforward, out-of-the-box experience, we started the process from scratch. Within approximately three minutes of connecting the device to the TV’s HDMI port, we were streaming a YouTube video. The setup was equally effortless when using a 4G MiFi hotspot in a different location, highlighting its user-friendliness.
Chromecast’s portability is a major advantage, perfectly embodying the “dongle style” concept. Its small size and easy setup on new Wi-Fi networks make it an ideal travel companion. It’s genuinely pocket-sized, adding to its convenience. Furthermore, its affordability means losing or accidentally leaving it behind wouldn’t be a significant loss.
Local video playback is also supported, at least for certain formats. A video file in MKV format played seamlessly on our television when dragged into a Chrome browser window. This demonstrates its versatility beyond just streaming online content.
Similarly, content accessed through a browser, such as Amazon Instant Video, Hulu, Rdio, and HBO Go, worked without issues. Videos from various online platforms, and even Facebook photos displayed in fullscreen, streamed effectively. We even tested a live Flash stream, showcasing broad compatibility.
Alt text: Close-up of the Chromecast dongle style device inserted into a television’s HDMI port, emphasizing its compact design and seamless integration.
One notable incompatibility was with Quicktime. While video playback was possible, audio was absent. This issue occurred with both local .mov files and movie trailers streamed from Apple’s website. Google has indicated that Quicktime and Silverlight are not supported, which is something to keep in mind for users relying on these formats.
iOS setup was not yet available at the time of testing. Initially, setup required an Android phone or the Chrome web browser. The Chromecast setup page indicated that iOS support was “coming soon,” which was a drawback for iOS users at launch. For many potential buyers, promised iOS compatibility was a key factor, so its absence at launch was a significant point. This needed to be addressed promptly to manage user expectations and avoid disappointment.
Chromecast requires power via a cable. This power dependency has sparked debate about whether it truly qualifies as a “dongle.” Regardless of the terminology, the practical aspect is that it’s powered via USB. If your TV has a USB port, you can conveniently power it directly from the TV. On most televisions tested, the power cable remained discreetly hidden behind the screen. If a USB port isn’t available on your television, it needs to be plugged into a standard power outlet.
Alt text: Unboxing of the Google Chromecast showcasing the dongle, USB power cable, and adapter, highlighting the minimal components for this streaming device.
In conclusion, our initial experience with Chromecast has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly considering its ease of use, versatility, and affordability. Given its low price point, it’s a compelling option for anyone seeking a simple “dongle style” solution to stream online content to their TV. Its portability and broad compatibility further enhance its appeal as a convenient streaming device.
