Chromecast updates automatically, but you can check the status and restart the device to speed things up
Your Chromecast updates itself in the background without you doing anything — Google pushes updates to the device when you are not actively casting. The update usually happens overnight or during idle periods. If you want to check whether an update is pending, restart your Chromecast by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. After restart, it will check for updates and install them if available.
You cannot manually read or install updates the way you would on a phone or computer. Chromecast does not have a settings menu where you choose "Check for Updates." Instead, the device handles this on its own schedule. If you are concerned an update is stuck or overdue, a restart is the only action that makes sense on your end.
Key Takeaways
- Chromecast checks for and installs updates automatically in the background; you do not need to do anything to make this happen.
- Restarting your Chromecast by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in forces it to check for pending updates when ready.
- There is no manual update option in Chromecast settings because the device manages updates on Google's schedule, not yours.
- Updates typically install when the device is idle or not in use, so they rarely interrupt your casting.
Why Chromecast updates work differently than your phone
Chromecast is designed to be straightforward — it has no app store, no settings app, and no user-facing update mechanism. Google decided to handle all updates silently so you never have to think about it. This is different from a smartphone or tablet, where you open the settings app, find "System Update," and tap a button.
The trade-off is that you have less control over when updates happen. You cannot delay an update or choose to stay on an older version. If Google releases an update, your Chromecast will eventually install it. Most people never notice because the updates are small and happen during off-hours.
How to check if your Chromecast is up to date
Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. Tap the device icon for your Chromecast in the top right corner. Scroll down and look for "Device information" or "About." The app will show you the current software version number, though it does not tell you whether a newer version exists.
If you want to know whether an update is waiting to install, restart the device. Unplug your Chromecast from power, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. During the restart, the device will check Google's servers for updates. If one is available, it will read and install it automatically. This process usually takes a few minutes.
You will not see a progress bar or notification on your TV. The device will straightforward restart and be ready to use once the lights stop blinking. If the restart takes longer than usual, an update is probably installing in the background.
What to do if your Chromecast seems stuck or outdated
If your Chromecast has not updated in a long time or is behaving strangely, try a factory reset. In the Google Home app, go to your device settings, scroll to the bottom, and select "Reset." This will erase all settings and return the device to factory defaults. After reset, set it up again from scratch, and it will pull the latest software during the initial setup process.
A factory reset is more drastic than a straightforward restart, so use it only if restarting does not solve the problem. Most update issues resolve themselves within a few days as Google's servers push the update to your device on their schedule.
Chromecast models and update availability
All Chromecast models — including Chromecast with Google TV, Chromecast Audio, and older generations — receive updates automatically. Older models may stop receiving updates after several years, but Google typically supports each model for at least three to five years from release.
If you own a very old Chromecast (first or second generation from 2013 or 2014), it may no longer be receiving updates. You can check the version number in the Google Home app to see how old the software is. If the version number has not changed in over a year, the device has likely reached end of support.
Why updates matter for Chromecast
Updates fix bugs, improve casting performance, and patch security issues. Because Chromecast connects to your home network and receives content from the internet, security updates are important. An outdated device could become vulnerable to network attacks or casting interruptions.
Updates also add features and improve compatibility with newer apps. If you notice that a casting app no longer works smoothly, an update to your Chromecast may fix the problem. This is another reason to let the device update automatically rather than trying to prevent updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn off automatic updates on my Chromecast?
No. Chromecast does not have a setting to disable automatic updates. Google pushes updates to all devices on their schedule, and there is no way to opt out. You can restart the device to check for updates manually, but you cannot prevent them from installing.
How long does a Chromecast update take?
Most updates take between 5 and 15 minutes to read and install. During this time, you cannot cast to the device. The device will restart automatically when the update is complete. If an update takes longer than 30 minutes, unplug the device and plug it back in to restart the process.
Will an update erase my saved networks or settings?
No. Updates preserve your Wi-Fi network, paired devices, and other settings. You will not have to set up your Chromecast again after an update. A factory reset is different — that will erase everything and require you to set up the device from scratch.
What if my Chromecast will not connect to Wi-Fi after an update?
"Forget" the network in the Google Home app and reconnect. Go to device settings, select your Wi-Fi network, and choose "Forget." Then set up the connection again from scratch. If that does not work, perform a factory reset and set up the device as if it were new.