Nearly 80% of all U.S. households subscribe to at least one video streaming service. Some of the most popular platforms include Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
The best part? You can watch them on many different devices, including your phone, tablet, and computer. If you want, you can even connect them to the big screen using Google Chromecast (assuming you don’t have a smart TV).
Thinking of doing that? Need some help with Chromecast for Mac setup? If so, you’re at the right place.
We’ll be going over how to setup Chromecast step-by-step below. Keep reading to learn more!
What Is Chromecast?
Google Chromecast is a media-streaming device that allows you to cast videos from your smartphone or computer to a television screen. If you want, you can also use it to play games or listen to music.
Powered by a USB cable, it can be plugged into any TV or monitor through a standard HDMI port.
Currently, there are two models available—Chromecast (3rd generation) and Chromecast with Google TV, the latter of which runs the Android TV operating system and comes with a Bluetooth remote control.
Step 1: Setting Up the Hardware
The Google Chromecast comes with a power supply, HDMI dongle, USB Type-A to USB Micro-B cable, and extension cable.
Start by plugging the Chromecast into an HDMI port on the back of your TV (use an extender cable if necessary). Next, plug the USB Micro-B connector into the Chromecast dongle.
Once you’ve done that, plug the Type-A connector into a USB port on the television—that’ll supply the device with power. If your TV doesn’t have an extra USB port, you can plug the Type-A connector into a power supply and connect it directly to an outlet.
Step 2: Installing the Chromecast App
The easiest way to setup Chromecast from Mac computers is to use the official app. Open your web browser and go to the following URL: chromecast.com/setup. Scroll down to the bottom and click on the blue button to download the app.
Once it’s finished downloading, drag the app icon to the Applications folder (you’ll have to agree to the privacy and terms before installing). Once it’s installed, the app will automatically search for nearby Chromecasts.
Step 3: Configuring the Chromecast
Assuming that everything is properly connected, you should see your Chromecast listed on the app. To configure the device, click on the blue ‘Set Up’ button on the right-hand side of the screen.
The app will confirm that it’s ready for the setup process. Click on the ‘Continue’ button and you’ll be prompted to select your country. From there, the app will automatically connect to the device—this can take a couple of minutes.
Once it’s connected, a random code will appear on the television screen. Make sure that it matches the one displayed on the app and click on ‘That’s my code’ at the bottom.
Tip: You can also set up your Chromecast using the Google Home App (available for both iOS and Android devices). Simply follow the prompts on the screen.
Step 4: Connecting the Chromecast to Your WiFi Network
You’ll be asked to select a wireless network for your Chromecast. Choose it from the drop-down menu and type in your password to proceed.
On the same screen, you can also change the name of your Chromecast (by default, it’ll be named ‘Chromecast’ with a random string of numbers). For example, you can change it to ‘Living Room’ or ‘Bedroom.’
When you’re finished, click on ‘Continue’ and the HDMI dongle will automatically connect to your WiFi network. You may have to install some software updates if it’s your first time using the device.
A confirmation will come up on the screen once the Chromecast has successfully connected to your WiFi network.
Step 5: Installing the Chromecast Browser Extension
Download the latest version of Google’s Chrome browser to your MacBook (if it’s not already installed) and install the browser extension. To do that, tap on the blue ‘Get Cast Extension’ button at the bottom of the app window.
A Google Cast window will appear. Click on the ‘Add’ button to install the extension. A confirmation will appear once it’s been added.
Note: You can also search for the extension in the Google Chrome browser app store.
Step 6: Casting From Your Chrome Browser
Open Google Chrome on your Mac and click on the three dots at the top right-hand corner of the screen.
Select ‘Cast…’ from the drop-down menu and any video you play will automatically be sent to your television (you can choose which device to connect to if you have multiple Chromecasts in the house).
Alternatively, you can click on the Cast Icon (a square with some WiFi bars at the corner) after starting the video in your browser. Keep in mind, however, that it’ll only appear on Netflix, Youtube, and other supported apps.
While the video is playing, you can continue to browse the web using Chrome or put your Mac to sleep.
Read also: Top Mac Tips and Tricks for New Users
Chromecast for Mac Setup: Explained
And there you have it—a Chromecast for Mac setup guide. As you can see, the process is quite straightforward. If anything, you just have to follow the prompts that come up on the screen!
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