Chromecast updates automatically, but you can check for updates manually
Chromecast devices update themselves automatically when connected to power and Wi-Fi, usually overnight. You do not need to do anything — the device will download and install the latest software on its own schedule. However, if you want to check whether an update is available right now, or force an update to happen immediately, you can do that through the Google Home app on your phone or tablet.
The update process takes a few minutes and your Chromecast will restart during the installation. You should not unplug the device while an update is in progress, as this can corrupt the software and make the device unusable.
Key Takeaways
- Chromecast updates happen automatically when the device is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, so most users never need to manually check.
- To check for updates manually, open the Google Home app, select your Chromecast device, tap the settings icon, and look for a system update option.
- Manual updates through the Google Home app typically take two to five minutes and require the device to restart.
- Never unplug your Chromecast during an update, as interrupting the process can damage the device's software.
How to check for updates in the Google Home app
Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet and make sure you are signed into the same Google account you used to set up your Chromecast. Tap and hold the Chromecast device you want to update — the one that appears as a card on your home screen. A menu will pop up with several options.
Tap the settings icon (it looks like a gear or three dots, depending on your device model). Scroll down until you see "System" or "Device information." Tap that section. You should see a line that says "System update" or "Check for updates." Tap it, and the app will search for a newer version of the Chromecast software.
If an update is available, you will see a button to install it. Tap that button and wait — the update will download and install automatically. Your Chromecast will restart once or twice during this process. Do not unplug it or close the Google Home app while the update is running.
What happens during a Chromecast update
When an update begins, your Chromecast will stop responding to casting commands for a few minutes. The device's light may blink or change color while the software is being installed. This is normal and expected. The entire process usually takes between two and five minutes, though larger updates can take longer.
Once the update finishes, your Chromecast will restart and reconnect to your Wi-Fi network automatically. You will be able to cast to it again right away. There is no need to restart your phone, tablet, or the Google Home app — they will recognize the device once it comes back online.
Why your Chromecast might not update automatically
Chromecast devices only update when they are plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi. If your device is unplugged most of the time, or if it frequently loses its Wi-Fi connection, it may not receive updates on schedule. Plugging it in and leaving it connected for a few hours overnight will usually trigger an automatic update if one is pending.
If your Chromecast is connected but still shows an old software version after several days, try restarting the device by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. Then check for updates manually through the Google Home app. If the app says no update is available, your device is already running the latest version.
Updating older Chromecast models
First-generation Chromecast devices and older Chromecast Audio models use a different update process. These devices do not have a settings menu in the Google Home app. Instead, they update only automatically when plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi — there is no way to manually check or force an update.
If you own an older Chromecast model and want to know what software version it is running, you can check by opening the Google Home app, tapping and holding the device, and looking for "Device information" or "About." The version number will be listed there, though you cannot update it manually from this screen.
Troubleshooting update problems
If an update fails or gets stuck, unplug your Chromecast for 30 seconds and plug it back in. This will restart the device and usually clears any temporary problems. Once it restarts, try checking for updates again through the Google Home app.
If the same update keeps failing, try moving your Chromecast closer to your Wi-Fi router temporarily. A weak or unstable connection can interrupt the download and cause the update to fail. Once the update completes successfully, you can move the device back to its original location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my TV while Chromecast is updating?
No. While a Chromecast update is running, the device will not respond to casting commands and you cannot stream anything to it. The update typically takes two to five minutes, so you will need to wait before you can cast again. Your TV itself will work fine — only the Chromecast function is unavailable during the update.
What if I accidentally unplug my Chromecast during an update?
Unplugging during an update can corrupt the device's software and make it unusable. If this happens, try plugging it back in and waiting a few minutes. Sometimes the device can recover on its own. If it does not work after restarting, you may need to factory reset it using the reset button on the device itself, which will erase all settings.
How do I know what software version my Chromecast is running?
Open the Google Home app, tap and hold your Chromecast device, tap the settings icon, and look for "Device information" or "About." The software version number will be listed there. You can compare this to Google's official release notes to see if a newer version is available.
Do I need to restart my phone after updating Chromecast?
No. Your phone does not need to restart after a Chromecast update. Once the Chromecast finishes updating and reconnects to Wi-Fi, the Google Home app will recognize it automatically and you can start casting right away.