Chromecast updates automatically, but you can check the status and force an update if needed
Your Chromecast downloads and installs updates on its own, usually overnight when it is idle and connected to power and Wi-Fi. You do not need to do anything to make this happen. However, if you want to check whether an update is available right now, or if you suspect your device is stuck on an old version, you can manually check and trigger an update from the Google Home app on your phone.
The process takes about five to ten minutes and requires your Chromecast to stay plugged in and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone. After the update finishes, your device will restart automatically.
Key Takeaways
- Chromecast updates happen automatically in the background, so most users never need to do anything.
- You can check for updates manually using the Google Home app by selecting your device, tapping the settings gear, and choosing "Device information" followed by "System update."
- Manual updates take five to ten minutes and require your Chromecast to remain plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi during the process.
- If an update fails or your device becomes unresponsive, unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually resolves the problem.
How to check for updates using the Google Home app
Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. Make sure you are signed into the same Google account you used to set up your Chromecast. Tap and hold the Chromecast device you want to update — the one that shows a picture or icon representing that device.
Tap the settings gear icon in the top right corner of the device card. Scroll down and tap "Device information." Look for "System update" in the list. If an update is available, you will see a button that says "Check for update" or "Update." Tap it to begin the read and installation.
Do not unplug your Chromecast or disconnect it from Wi-Fi while the update is running. The screen may go black or show a spinning circle — this is normal. When the update finishes, your device will restart on its own.
What to do if no update appears available
If you tap "Check for update" and the app says your device is already up to date, your Chromecast is running the latest version. You can verify the current version number by looking at the "System update" section — it will show the build number or version string.
If you believe your device is out of date but the app says otherwise, try restarting your Chromecast. Unplug it from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait two minutes for it to fully boot, then check for updates again. Sometimes the device needs a restart to recognize that a new version is available.
Troubleshooting a stuck or failed update
If your Chromecast becomes unresponsive during an update, or if the update fails and the device will not restart, the first step is a hard reset. Unplug the device from power completely. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Do not touch it for two to three minutes while it boots.
If the device still will not respond after a hard reset, try checking for updates again from the Google Home app. Sometimes a second attempt will complete the update successfully. If the problem persists, you may need to factory reset your Chromecast, which erases all settings and requires you to set it up again from scratch — contact Google Support if you reach this point.
Why your Chromecast updates automatically
Google pushes updates to Chromecast devices to add new features, fix security issues, and improve performance. Because Chromecast is a streaming device with limited storage and processing power, updates are usually small and install quickly. The device is designed to read them in the background without interrupting your viewing.
Automatic updates happen when your Chromecast is plugged in, connected to Wi-Fi, and idle — typically late at night or early morning. This is why it is a good idea to leave your Chromecast plugged in even when you are not actively using it. If you unplug it frequently or keep it offline, it may fall behind on updates.
How long updates take and what to expect
A typical Chromecast update takes between five and ten minutes from start to finish. The read itself is usually fast if your Wi-Fi is stable, but the installation and restart can add a few minutes. During this time, you will not be able to cast to the device or use it to stream content.
Your Chromecast may display a loading screen, a spinning circle, or a black screen during the update. This is normal and does not mean something has gone wrong. Once the update completes, the device will restart and return to its normal home screen or screensaver within a minute or two.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Chromecast while it is updating?
No. During an update, your Chromecast will not respond to casting requests or remote commands. The device is unavailable until the update finishes and it restarts. Plan updates for a time when you are not actively using the device.
What happens if I unplug my Chromecast during an update?
Unplugging during an update can corrupt the device and leave it unable to start. If this happens, plug it back in and wait a few minutes. If it still will not respond, try a hard reset by unplugging for 30 seconds and plugging back in. If the problem continues, you may need to factory reset the device.
How do I know what version of software my Chromecast is running?
Open the Google Home app, tap and hold your Chromecast device, tap the settings gear, and select "Device information." The current version number or build string appears under "System update." You can compare this to Google's public release notes if you want to know what features are included.
Do I need to update my Chromecast if it is working fine?
Updates include security patches that protect your device and your network, so it is a good idea to keep your Chromecast current even if it seems to be working well. Since updates happen automatically, you do not need to take action unless you want to update when ready rather than waiting for the automatic overnight update.