How to Make the Most of Chromecast with Your Favorite Apps
Chromecast is a powerful tool that lets you stream your favorite content directly to your TV screen. If you're looking to get the most out of this device, you're in the right place. Below, you will find a list of applications that could quickly become your best friends in streaming your content.
The Best Apps for Entertainment and Streaming
- Netflix (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – One of the most popular streaming platforms in the world offering a wide range of TV series, films and documentaries.
- Amazon Prime Video (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – Offers a large selection of films and TV series, perfect for those who have an Amazon Prime subscription.
- Disney+ (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – From the world of Disney to Marvel films, Star Wars and more, Disney+ is a rich and varied streaming service.
- NOW (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – A streaming platform developed by Sky with several monthly packages available.
- DAZN (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – Ideal for sports fans who want to follow matches live.
- Pluto TV (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – A service that offers free access to films and TV series.
- YouTube (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – The largest video sharing platform in the world.
- Plex (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – One of the best apps to manage your video library on PC, NAS or home servers.
Music Apps for a Sound Experience
- Spotify (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – With millions of songs available, Spotify is one of the most popular music streaming services.
- YouTube Music (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – A platform dedicated entirely to music and music videos.
- Deezer (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – Another excellent music streaming service with a large library of songs.
- TuneIn Radio (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – Listen to your favorite radio stations directly on your TV.
Play on the Big Screen with These Apps
- Stadia (Android/iOS) – A revolutionary gaming platform developed by Google.
- Just Dance Now (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – Dance to the notes of your favorite songs and use your smartphone as a controller.
- Angry Birds Go! (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – The famous game in a version that supports Chromecast.
Other Useful Tools for Chromecast
- Bubble UPNP (Android) – A practical solution for casting your content.
- AllCast (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – Mirror your device's screen to your TV.
- VLC (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – One of the best existing video players with Chromecast support.
- Google Photos (Android/iOS/iPadOS) – View your favorite photos and videos on your TV screen.
- Replication (iOS/iPadOS) – Duplicate your iPhone or iPad screen with ease.
With these applications, you will be able to make the most of the potential of your Chromecast and transform your TV into a latest generation entertainment center.
How to Use Chromecast on PC: The Best Solutions
Use Chrome to Cast to Chromecast
If you're looking for a way to use Chromecast from your PC, the answer may be closer than you think. The Chrome web browser is one of the most immediate and effective solutions for this purpose. Available free for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Chrome has a built-in feature called “Cast” that lets you send the contents of a browser tab or your entire screen directly to your Chromecast connected to your TV.
Usage is simple: once Chrome is open, click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner, select “Cast” and choose your Chromecast device. That's it, now everything you see on the PC screen will be transmitted to the TV. This feature makes Chrome one of the most versatile browsers for those who own a Chromecast device.
Set up Chromecast: The Google Home App
While everyday use of Chromecast can be conveniently managed through the Chrome browser on your PC, an important point needs to be clarified regarding the initial setup of the device. Contrary to what you might think, the initial setup of Chromecast cannot be done via a PC.
To properly set up your Chromecast, you will need to use the Google Home app. This application is only available for Android and iOS mobile devices. So, if you are looking for a way to set up your Chromecast via PC, you should know that, at the moment, this option is not available.
Alternative Solutions to Use Chromecast on PC
While Chrome and the Google Home app are the most immediate and popular ways to use and set up Chromecast, there are other options as well. Third-party software and specific applications can expand functionality and make the experience even more customizable. However, the simplicity and ease of use of Chrome and Google Home make them the obvious choices for most users.
In summary, to make the most of Chromecast on your PC, the Chrome browser remains an efficient and straightforward solution. For the initial setup, however, you will necessarily have to go through the Google Home app on a mobile device. Once done, you will be free to enjoy all the multimedia content directly on your TV screen.