I always hear two questions when I say I have one chromecast. The first is: what is it? And after a brief explanation, comes the second question: is it worth having one?
What is the chromecast?
In a nutshell, it is a device that, connected to a WiFi network and the TV's HDMI input, shows the content transmitted by apps from Android or iOS devices and also from computers that have the Chrome Browser installed. That is, it replaces the physical connection (HDMI cable) between your mobile device and the TV. In this other post we published it is possible to find more detailed information about the Chromecast.
But unlike a physical connection to the TV, where it is possible to mirror everything we see on the screen of our gadgets, the chromecast is capable of streaming only the content of specific apps.
At this point, the big question arises. It's worth having one, even if you already have one. Smart TV at home, which has pretty much the same apps?
Yes! It's really worth it!
I prepared a list of reasons:
- The app ratio is growing and should grow even more when the use of the API (Application Program Interface) of the chromecast for all app developers. It should quickly surpass the options available on Smart TVs. See below the applications already available in Spain (Google play):
For an up-to-date list of apps and extensions for the CHROMECAST, Look this post.
The advantage of using applications from a Smartphone or Tablet, compared to the same application available on Smart TV, is the practicality of doing this without using the TV remote control. Another advantage is the personalization of content located on any Smartphone or Tablet connected to the same WiFi network, including your friends' devices, which will be able to share content directly to your TV.
- It's cheaper than buying a wireless keyboard and mouse to control your PC or Notebook connected to the TV
One of the most common uses of a PC connected to the TV is browsing the internet to take advantage of the big screen as a monitor. You just need to be very close to the TV or use a wireless keyboard and mouse. How chromecast you can stream a Chrome tab to your TV.
In the example below, I used my tablet with W8.1 as a keyboard and mouse, while browsing Chrome. A user experience far superior to existing browsers on Smart TVs
- Fast, low-cost upgrade to a TV without WiFi
For TVs that are not Smart TVs or for some models that despite having WiFi network support, use it only for the DLNA, i.e. streaming videos, photos and music from compatible devices to the TV, the chromecast allows applications like Netflix can be used.
O chromecast It's been selling for $35 since launching in July of this year, but unfortunately it's not yet available in Spain. As it's quite small, it's a great gift to bring with you on a trip abroad.
Have more questions about the chromecast?
Leave your question in the comments!
