Faster
reduces buffering and enables more of what you stream to play back at higher resolutions. Anyone who’s used the original Chromecast extensively will know that it could drop its video streams to lower resolutions at times, but that should happen less frequently with the new model.It Supports More Apps
- Google says that thousands of mobile apps will now be Cast-friendly, making it more likely that whatever you’re doing on your phone or tablet will be shareable on the big screen.
- New Cast-enabled apps include Spotify, Google Photos and BBC iPlayer Radio, joining existing ones such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube and BT Sport. As before, Cast works with Android and iOS devices, as well as Windows, Mac and Chromebook computers.
Its Prettier
- Google's also revamped its screensaver-esque backdrop mode – you know, the feature which put a randomised feed of nice photos on your TV screen when you weren’t casting anything. Before, it was a case of 'you get what you’re given', but with the 2015 Chromecast there are options for customising the backdrop, including the ability to have your own pictures (from Facebook or Flickr) used in the big screen slideshow.
Its Easier To Find Stuff To Cast
- The app is now a place where you can browse for things to Cast on to your TV, with the new 'What's On' feature showing you content from all of your Cast-enabled services. So, for instance, it'll showcase a selection of new content from YouTube, Netflix and so on.
- It'll also alert you to new third-party apps that support the Cast function and provide a handy list of all Cast-compatible apps you already have.
Its Got New Gaming Smarts
- Everyone can use their phone or tablet as a gamepad, as Chromecast still supports a 'guest mode' that automatically allows anyone on your Wi-Fi network to control the device.
- Early titles include Angry Birds Go!, WGT Golf and Driver Speedboat Paradise.
