First-generation Chromecast users stressed by devices suddenly failing

Google’s first Chromecast was a hit. With 10 million units sold in 2014, it excelled as an easy solution for streaming TV and movies from the Internet to a TV. Released at a time when dumb TVs were more common, the first-generation Chromecast has a simplicity you don’t find in streaming devices these days. Press “Cast” in an app, select a TV with a Chromecast, and start watching. Foregoing extras like a UI or ads, the device remains active in some homes today, despite Google ending support for the $35 device in 2023.

However, this week it seemed like those days were over. Numerous people reported that their original Chromecast had suddenly stopped casting from popular apps, including Chrome, YouTube, and Paramount+. This brought concern that the original Chromecast was really dead now. A Reddit thread started by someone who claimed to have two first-gen Chromecasts suddenly stop working at the same time includes various responses from people who suspected that Google bricked the devices in order to force upgrades.

But Sahana Mysore, senior product manager for Google Home, told Ars Technica today that Google didn’t kill the devices, saying:

Earlier this week, a technical issue temporarily disrupted casting for some Gen 1 Google Chromecast users. Our team quickly identified the root cause and resolved the issue.

All of the devices should be working now, per Mysore. As of last night, some people online have reported that their Chromecasts are working again.

Ars asked what exactly the technical issue was and will update this article if we learn more.

Another point of stress for owners of older Chromecasts this week is a report today that Google has ended support for every Chromecast except for the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) from 2022. However, as of this writing, the support page still lists all Chromecasts except the first-gen Chromecast as “currently receiving critical security updates.”