Google is a technology powerhouse. Google, along with Apple and Microsoft, are among the top tech companies that are out there--releasing devices to better convenience our lives.
Back in July 2013, Google released the device called Chromecast. The Chromecast is a device that uses WiFi to mirror content from a mobile or computer device to a TV screen. The purpose of the device is so you can use applications on your phone but watch them on your TV without any hassle. The Chromecast plugs into the HDMI input on your television.
Within any app that uses Chromecast capabilities, you press the "cast" icon and it will be mirrored to the television within seconds.
With it's initial release there were very few applications that were compatible with the Chromecast. One app that has been compatible is Netflix. The original promotion of the Chromecast included three months of Netflix for free with the purchase of the Chromecast. Now there are over 200 apps that are compatible with Chromecast spread across Android, iOS, and PCs. And even more apps will have this functionality in the future.
One of the great functions of the Chromecast device is that it allows guest devices to connect to it, as long as they are connected to the same WiFi network (to keep it secure from unwanted connection). This way if your friend has something on their phone that they wish to show you on the big screen, they can.
On top of that, there can be multiple Chromecasts within a household. You can connect to your personal flatscreen upstairs or you can connect to the theater room projector in the basement. Along with multiple Chromecast devices, they can all be customized and given a "nickname." When the Chromecast is inactive (but still plugged into the TV) it will display default images on the screen along with the time of day. Though the images are beautiful, you can customize and change them to your own photos or anything images you want.
The Chromcast is very similar to an Apple TV but is more for streaming purposes. It is also smaller and more portable. The Chromecast is very cheap and affordable to almost any consumer. The devices initial price was $35 dollars but now it ranges anywhere from $20-$35, depending on where it's purchased.
I've only owned my Chromecast for a few months but I have not regretted my purchase in anyway. I'm already thinking of purchasing another one for the other room.
