Table of Contents
If you are looking for a budget-friendly alternative to Apple’s AirPlay that enables wireless playback on iOS and macOS devices, Chromecast from Google is an option worth considering. Here’s all you need to know about using Chromecast on your iPhone or Mac, including what it is and how to connect your devices.
What is Chromecast?
Chromecast is a device launched in 2013 by Google that enables wireless streaming directly to your TV. While similar to Apple’s AirPlay, Chromecast differs from it in a few significant ways. For one, connecting to a Chromecast differs between Android and iOS devices. For another, Chromecast comes with a lower price tag than AirPlay.
If you do decide to purchase a Chromecast device, you can get it from many retailers, including Currys PC World, Argos, John Lewis, and Google for around £30 (US$36). Chromecast with 4K HDR support is also available for those who want a little bit more from their devices, for approximately £69 (US$82).
How to Use Chromecast on iPhone
Although iOS doesn’t support Chromecast natively, you can stream from iOS devices to Chromecast-enabled TVs on a per-app basis. To do this, you need to use Chromecast-compatible apps. Once you have your Chromecast device connected, the streaming process is easy to set up.
For example, suppose you want to connect your iPhone to your Netflix account and watch your favorite show on your TV. First, connect your Netflix account to your Chromecast account by tapping on the Cast icon in the top right-hand corner of the Netflix app. Look for the waveform TV icon to ensure you’ve found the right one. When the icon turns blue, it means you’re connected to Chromecast. Once you see this icon, select the episode, movie, or series you want to watch and enjoy.
How to Use Chromecast on Mac
If you’re using a Mac to stream content to your TV, you absolutely must use Google Chrome to cast. Chrome is the only browser that supports Chromecast. While streaming native Chromecast-enabled apps is pretty simple, websites with videos that don’t come with Chromecast support can be a bit finicky. However, it’s still possible to stream them if you know how.
Let’s take BBC iPlayer as an example. If you find a video on iPlayer and want to cast it, click on the cast button on the right. This step should connect your Mac to your TV and start playing the show automatically. Keep in mind that while you’re casting content from your Mac, you cannot use the fullscreen mode. You’ll have to watch the show in the default setting.
That’s pretty much all you need to know about Chromecast on your Mac and iPhone. Although streaming isn’t as streamlined as with Apple’s AirPlay, Chromecast is still a viable option, especially considering its affordability.
FAQs:
1. How do I know if my smart TV supports Chromecast?
Many modern smart TVs come with Chromecast built-in. Check the manual or the manufacturer’s website to know if your TV supports Chromecast.
2. Can I use Chromecast without Wi-Fi?
No, Chromecast requires a Wi-Fi network to function properly.