Check for updates directly on your Chromecast device

The fastest way to update your Chromecast is through the device itself. On your TV, use your remote or the Chromecast to navigate to Settings, then select System and About. Look for an option labeled System update or Check for updates. If an update is waiting, you'll see a button to install it — select it and let the device restart. This usually takes 2 to 5 minutes.

Your Chromecast needs a stable internet connection during the entire update. If the connection drops partway through, the update may fail and you'll need to try again. Keep the device plugged in and don't unplug it until the restart is complete and you see the home screen again.

Use the Google Home app to update from your phone

If you have the Google Home app installed on your phone or tablet, you can check for updates there. Open the app, tap the device icon for your Chromecast, then tap the settings gear in the top right corner. Scroll down and look for Device information or System update. If an update is waiting, you'll see the option to install it. The app will walk you through the process and let you know when it's done.

This method works whether you're at home or away, as long as your Chromecast is powered on and connected to your Wi-Fi. The update will still happen on the device itself — the app just triggers it remotely.

Key Takeaways

  • Updates happen automatically on most Chromecast devices, but you can manually check the Settings menu under System and About to see if one is waiting.
  • Your Chromecast must stay plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi for the entire update, which usually takes 2 to 5 minutes.
  • You can trigger an update from the Google Home app on your phone if you prefer not to use the TV remote.
  • If an update fails partway through, unplug the device for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try again.

Understand automatic updates and when they happen

Most Chromecast models are set to update automatically when you're not using the device. These updates typically happen overnight or during times when the device is idle. You won't see a notification or need to do anything — the device checks for updates on its own and installs them when it's safe to do so.

If you want to see whether an automatic update has already been installed, go to Settings, then System, then About. You'll see the current software version listed there. Write down the version number, then check Google's Chromecast support page to see what the latest version should be for your model.

Restart your Chromecast if an update gets stuck

Sometimes an update will start but not finish, or the device will seem frozen on an update screen. The first step is to wait 10 minutes — updates can take longer than expected, especially on older devices or slower internet connections. If nothing changes after 10 minutes, unplug the Chromecast from power, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in.

The device will restart and may try the update again automatically. If it gets stuck a second time, unplug it again, wait a full minute this time, and plug it back in. If the problem continues after three restart attempts, your internet connection may be too slow or unstable — try moving the Chromecast closer to your router or restarting your router itself.

Know the difference between Chromecast models and update availability

Google makes several Chromecast models — the standard Chromecast, Chromecast with Google TV, and older versions like Chromecast Ultra. Each model receives updates on a different schedule, and older models may not receive the latest software versions. If your device is more than five years old, it may no longer receive updates at all.

You can find your exact model by going to Settings, then System, then About. Look for the model name or number listed there. If you're not sure whether your model still receives updates, search for your model name plus "end of support" to see whether Google has stopped releasing updates for it.

Troubleshoot common update problems

If your Chromecast won't update no matter what you try, the problem is usually one of three things: a weak Wi-Fi signal, an unstable internet connection, or a full storage drive. Move the device closer to your router and make sure no one else is using bandwidth-heavy apps like video streaming while the update runs. If your internet keeps dropping, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.

If the device still won't update after you've moved it closer to the router and restarted your internet, try a factory reset. Go to Settings, then System, then Reset. This will erase all your settings and sign you out of your Google account, but it will also clear any corrupted files that might be blocking the update. After the reset, set up the device again and try the update once more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to do anything to update my Chromecast, or does it happen by itself?

Most Chromecast devices update automatically when you're not using them, usually overnight. You don't need to do anything. If you want to check whether an update is waiting or force one to install right away, you can go to Settings and look for System update, but this is optional.

How long does a Chromecast update take?

A typical update takes 2 to 5 minutes from start to finish, including the restart. Older devices or slower internet connections may take up to 10 minutes. Don't unplug the device during this time, even if it seems like nothing is happening.

What happens if I unplug my Chromecast while it's updating?

Unplugging during an update can corrupt the software and leave your device unable to start. If this happens, plug it back in and try restarting it. If it still won't work, do a factory reset through the Settings menu. If you can't access Settings, unplug it for a full minute, plug it back in, and try again.

Can I use my TV while my Chromecast is updating?

You can watch TV, but the Chromecast won't work during the update. You won't be able to cast from your phone or use any Chromecast features until the update is done and the device has restarted. Plan updates for times when you're not planning to cast.

Why does my Chromecast keep failing to update?

The most common cause is a weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection. Move the device closer to your router, make sure no one is downloading large files, and restart your router. If it still fails after three attempts, try a factory reset, which will clear any corrupted files blocking the update.