Chromecast updates automatically, but you can check the status and force an update if needed
Your Chromecast device receives updates over Wi-Fi without you having to do anything. Google pushes these updates to your device in the background, usually overnight when your Chromecast is idle and plugged in. However, if you want to check whether an update is available right now, or if you suspect your device is out of date, you can check the status manually through the Google Home app.
The process takes less than five minutes and requires only your phone or tablet and the Google Home app. You do not need a computer or any special technical knowledge. If an update is waiting, you can start it when ready, though the device will restart during the process.
Key Takeaways
- Open the Google Home app on your phone, find your Chromecast device, tap the settings gear icon, and select "Device information" to see the current software version.
- If an update is available, a notification will appear in the Device information screen, and you can tap to start the update when ready.
- Updates typically take five to fifteen minutes and require your Chromecast to stay plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.
- If your Chromecast is not updating automatically, restart the device by unplugging it for thirty seconds, then plugging it back in.
- You cannot manually read or install updates from a computer — updates come only through the Google Home app or automatically over Wi-Fi.
Check your current software version in the Google Home app
Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. If you do not have it installed, read it from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS). Make sure you are signed in with the same Google account that is linked to your Chromecast.
Find your Chromecast device in the app. It will appear as a card with the device name and a small image. Tap and hold on the device card, or tap the settings gear icon in the top right corner of the card. Select "Device information" from the menu. The screen will show your device name, model, Wi-Fi network, and most importantly, the software version number at the bottom.
Write down or take a screenshot of the version number. You can compare this to the latest version listed on Google's Chromecast support page if you want to know whether your device is current. However, you do not need to do this — if an update is available, the Device information screen will tell you directly.
Start an update if one is available
While you are in the Device information screen, look for a notification that says an update is available. If you see this message, tap it. The app will ask you to confirm that you want to update now. Tap "Update" to proceed.
Your Chromecast will restart and begin downloading the update. The process usually takes five to fifteen minutes depending on your Wi-Fi speed and the size of the update. During this time, your Chromecast will not be able to cast video or audio — the screen may go dark or show a loading indicator. Leave the device plugged in and do not unplug it until the update is complete.
Once the update finishes, your Chromecast will restart automatically and return to normal operation. You can test it by casting a video or song from your phone. If the update was successful, the Device information screen will show the new version number.
Restart your Chromecast if updates are not installing
If you have checked the Device information screen multiple times over several days and no update notification appears, but you believe your device is out of date, restart the device. Unplug your Chromecast from the power outlet and wait thirty seconds. Then plug it back in.
The device will take about one to two minutes to fully restart. Once the light on the device stops blinking, open the Google Home app again and check Device information. If an update was waiting to install, it should now appear and you can start it.
Restarting also fixes cases where an update began but did not complete. If your Chromecast seems stuck on a loading screen or will not respond to casting commands, unplugging it for thirty seconds and plugging it back in will usually restore normal operation.
What happens during a Chromecast update
Updates to Chromecast include security patches, bug fixes, and sometimes new features. Google does not announce every update, so you may not notice any visible change after an update completes. The device will work the same way it did before, but with improved stability or security behind the scenes.
Your casting apps — Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and others — will continue to work normally after an update. You do not need to reinstall them or change any settings. The update affects only the Chromecast device itself, not the apps on your phone.
If you are in the middle of casting when an update starts, the video or audio will stop. This is why Google schedules automatic updates for overnight hours when most people are not using their devices. If you manually start an update during the day, plan for a brief interruption to any casting activity.
Why your Chromecast may not be updating automatically
Automatic updates require three conditions: your Chromecast must be plugged in, connected to Wi-Fi, and idle (not actively casting). If your device is unplugged most of the time, or if it is always in use, updates may not install on their own schedule.
If your Wi-Fi connection is unstable or frequently drops, your Chromecast may not be able to read updates reliably. Move the device closer to your router or check whether other devices on your network are experiencing connection problems. A weak signal can prevent the update from downloading completely.
In rare cases, a Chromecast device may have a hardware issue that prevents updates from installing. If you have restarted the device, confirmed it is connected to a strong Wi-Fi signal, and waited several days without seeing an update notification, contact Google Support through the Google Home app. Tap your profile picture, then "Help & feedback," then "Send feedback."
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my Chromecast from a computer instead of my phone?
No. Updates come only through the Google Home app on a phone or tablet, or automatically over Wi-Fi. You cannot read or install updates from a web browser or desktop computer. If you do not have a smartphone, you can still receive automatic updates — just make sure your Chromecast is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi overnight.
Will updating my Chromecast erase my saved networks or settings?
No. Updates do not erase your Wi-Fi network, Google account connection, or any other settings. Your Chromecast will reconnect to the same Wi-Fi network it was on before the update and will work exactly as it did before, just with the new software version.
How long does a Chromecast update take?
Most updates take five to fifteen minutes from start to finish, including the restart time. Larger updates may take up to thirty minutes. The exact time depends on your Wi-Fi speed and the size of the update. During this time, do not unplug the device or interrupt the Wi-Fi connection.
What should I do if my Chromecast is stuck on an update screen?
Unplug the device for thirty seconds, then plug it back in. This will force a restart and usually clears a stuck update. If the device still will not respond after restarting, try moving it closer to your Wi-Fi router and restarting again. If the problem continues, contact Google Support through the Google Home app.
Can I downgrade my Chromecast to an older software version?
No. Google does not provide a way to downgrade Chromecast software. Once an update is installed, you cannot go back to a previous version. Updates are designed to improve security and stability, so downgrading is not recommended or supported.