Tech Tuesday: Taking a Closer Look at Chromecast

If you’ve spent any time online, you’ve probably heard of Google, the search engine that has become a major player in the technology arena. But have you heard of one of Google’s latest ventures: the Chromecast? Even if you have heard of it, you may ask yourself, What exactly is Google Chromecast? Chromecast is a […]
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Written by Staff Writer • Posted on Feb 04, 2014

If you've spent any time online, you've probably heard of Google, the search engine that has become a major player in the technology arena. But have you heard of one of Google's latest ventures: the Chromecast? Even if you have heard of it, you may ask yourself, What exactly is Google Chromecast?

Chromecast is a digital media streaming adapter. Now that's a mouthful of tech talk, but don't let that steer you away from this nifty device. Basically, the Chromecast is a device that plays audio and video content to your television by streaming it wirelessly from the Internet.

The Chromecast unit is small and sleek it could easily fit in your pocket and resembles a thumb drive. It connects to your HD TV via a USB port, also just like a thumb drive.

Much like you can on a tablet, you select the media you want to play from Chromecast's collection of mobile apps and web apps. For example, if you watch Netflix on your computer, you can use Chromecast to stream your Netflix to your TV.

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Some other apps that work with Chromecast are Hulu+, HBOGo, Pandora, Youtube, and Google Play.

Chromecast is compatible with Android phones and tablets, as well as Apple iOS products. You can also use your phone or tablet to control the content streaming through your Chromecast.

If you enjoy browsing social media sites like Facebook to keep in touch with family and friends, you can look at photos from social or photo sharing sites on your TV. You can see photos of your loved ones on your large, HD television screen instead of squinting at your laptop or tablet.

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You can also watch videos from YouTube in full view on your TV. Does your family enjoy emailing each other fun videos? Throw them up on the big screen.

Don't forget about listening to music on your TV rather than on your computer. While most new computers have great sound systems, they can't really compare to your television. With Chromecast you'd hear your music clearer and louder than you ever could on your desktop.

So sit back and watch your favorite online movies, TV shows, and music with Chromecast. If you want to learn more about Chromecast visit Google Chromecast 101.