Google says it is working to resolve an issue that has left numerous Chromecast users unable to watch content on their televisions for a second consecutive day.
The tech giant reports having sold over 100 million of these devices worldwide across various generations, with the problems specifically affecting the “second generation” model.
Owners of these Chromecasts have been unable to connect them to their televisions, preventing them from using streaming services like Netflix and YouTube on the big screen. Chromecast Audio devices are also experiencing issues.
The company has cautioned users against attempting to fix the problem themselves by performing a factory reset on affected devices, as stated in a post on the Google Nest support forum.
“Do not factory reset your device – we will keep you all updated when the fix rolls out,” the post reads.
“If you have already factory reset your device, we will provide instructions to set your device back up as soon as possible.”
However, several social media users suggested that Google’s advice came too late for some who had already reset their affected Chromecasts.
“Factory reset is literally the first thing I did when my Chromecast stopped working,” wrote a user replying to Google on X.
“Google asking everyone to please not factory reset their Chromecast after hours when it’s one of the most used fixes, is hilarious,” said another.
Google’s Chromecast devices plug into TVs and allow users to wirelessly stream content like web video and music using a mobile device or laptop.
It also provides the ability to display content from within a tab on its Chrome web browser.
Google released the second generation of Chromecast, along with the Chromecast Audio, in 2015.
Customers first began reporting issues affecting some Chromecasts and their ability to “cast” streaming content from devices to TVs on Sunday evening.
Users attempting to stream content were met with alerts stating that the device could not be authenticated, its connection had failed, or the Chromecast itself was “untrusted.”
Google announced in August 2024 that it would be discontinuing Chromecast, replacing its 11-year-old device with a new Google TV system, but promised to support existing devices with updates.
According to a report by The Register, the issue may have been caused by an expired authentication certificate.
The BBC has requested Google to confirm if this is indeed the case.
