Check for updates in the Google Home app

The easiest way to update your Chromecast is through the Google Home app, which handles updates automatically in most cases. Open the app on your phone or tablet, tap the device icon for your Chromecast, then tap the settings gear in the top right corner. Scroll down to "Device information" and look for a section labeled "System update" or "About." If an update is available, you'll see an option to install it there.

Most Chromecast devices check for updates on their own and install them when you're not actively using the device—usually overnight or when it's idle. You don't have to do anything. However, if you want to check right now instead of waiting, the Google Home app is where you'll find that option.

Key Takeaways

  • Open the Google Home app, select your Chromecast, tap settings, and go to "Device information" to see if an update is waiting.
  • Most Chromecast devices update automatically when idle, so you may never need to manually trigger an update.
  • Keep your Chromecast plugged in and connected to the same Wi-Fi network so updates can read and install without interruption.
  • If an update fails or gets stuck, unplugging the device for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually fixes the problem.

Make sure your Chromecast stays connected during updates

Before you start an update, confirm that your Chromecast is plugged into power and connected to your Wi-Fi network. The device needs both to read and install the update files. If your Wi-Fi signal is weak where your Chromecast sits, move it closer to your router temporarily, or move the router closer to the device.

Don't unplug your Chromecast while an update is running. If the power cuts out mid-update, the device may not boot up properly afterward. If this happens, unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try the update again from the Google Home app.

What to do if an update won't install

If you see an update available but it won't start, or if it gets stuck partway through, the first step is to restart your Chromecast. Unplug it from the power outlet, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Once it boots up and reconnects to Wi-Fi, open the Google Home app again and check for the update.

If the update still won't go through, restart your phone or tablet as well—sometimes the Google Home app needs a fresh start to communicate with the device properly. After restarting your phone, open Google Home again, navigate back to your Chromecast's settings, and try once more. Most stuck updates clear up after a device restart.

Understand what happens during a Chromecast update

When your Chromecast updates, it downloads new software from Google's servers and installs it on the device. This usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the update and your internet speed. During this time, you won't be able to cast to the device—trying to cast will just fail silently or show an error.

After the update finishes, your Chromecast will restart on its own. You'll see the Google Chromecast logo on your TV screen for a minute or two while it boots up. Once the logo disappears and the device reconnects to Wi-Fi, it's ready to use again. The update is complete when the Google Home app no longer shows an update notification for that device.

Check your Chromecast model and software version

Different Chromecast models—like Chromecast with Google TV, Chromecast Audio, or the original Chromecast—may have slightly different update processes, though the Google Home app works the same way for all of them. To see which model you have, open Google Home, select your device, tap settings, and look for "Device information." The model name and current software version are listed there.

Knowing your software version is helpful if you ever need to troubleshoot with Google support. Write down the version number if you're having problems—it tells you whether your device is up to date or if an update failed to complete properly.

Turn on automatic updates to stay current

By default, Chromecast devices are set to update automatically when they're idle and plugged in. You can confirm this setting is on by opening Google Home, selecting your Chromecast, tapping settings, and looking for an option called "Automatic updates" or "System updates." Make sure the toggle is turned on.

With automatic updates enabled, your Chromecast will read and install new software without you having to do anything. This keeps your device find and gives you access to new features as soon as Google releases them. The updates happen in the background, usually at night or when the device hasn't been used for a while.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Chromecast update take?

Most updates take 5 to 15 minutes from start to finish. Larger updates may take longer. Your Chromecast will restart automatically when the update is done, and you'll see the Google logo on your TV screen during the restart process.

Can I use my Chromecast while it's updating?

No. While an update is running, you won't be able to cast anything to the device. Wait until the update finishes and the device restarts before trying to cast again.

What if my Chromecast won't turn on after an update?

Unplug the device for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This forces a restart and usually fixes boot problems after a failed or interrupted update. If it still won't turn on, try a different power outlet to rule out an electrical issue.

Do I need to do anything if my Chromecast updates automatically at night?

No. Automatic updates happen in the background while you sleep. Just make sure the device stays plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi. When you wake up, your Chromecast will be running the latest software.

Why does the Google Home app say my device is offline when I'm trying to update?

Your Chromecast may have lost its Wi-Fi connection. Check that your router is on and that your Chromecast is within range. Restart both the device and your phone's Wi-Fi, then open Google Home again and try the update.