Tag: Google Home

  • Google Fixes Casting Issues for 2nd Gen Chromecast Users

    Google Fixes Casting Issues for 2nd Gen Chromecast Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Second-generation Chromecast devices, including Chromecast Audio, are experiencing casting issues reported by users on Reddit.
    2. Users attempted various troubleshooting steps, like resetting devices, but were unsuccessful in resolving the problem.
    3. Two workarounds emerged: resetting the device and setting the date before March 9, 2025, or using a specific tool with settings adjustments.
    4. Google has not officially acknowledged the issue, but customer support confirmed awareness and is working on a fix.
    5. The problem may be linked to an expired intermediate certificate authority, causing authentication failures for these devices.

    A peculiar global “casting” issue appears to be impacting second-generation Chromecast devices, which include Chromecast Audio. The first mention of this problem surfaced on Reddit, catching attention on the r/googlehome subreddit, where numerous users expressed their inability to cast content using their devices.

    Troubleshooting Attempts

    Users have shared (via Android Police) their attempts at resolving the issue, which included resetting their devices, but none of the steps have been successful. It’s possible that this problem stems from a faulty update that Google may have released. Users reported encountering one of two error messages: either “We couldn’t authenticate your Chromecast” or “Untrusted device: [device name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware.”

    Workarounds Found

    As Google works on a solution, two workarounds have emerged on Reddit. One user, reading_crows on r/googlehome, mentioned that they managed to get their device functioning again by resetting it and manually setting the date to before March 9th, 2025. This method should enable users to re-add their devices through the Google Home app.

    The second workaround is a bit more complex, requiring the download of a specific tool and some adjustments to settings. Although Google has yet to officially recognize the outage, customer support informed one user that the company was “aware of the problem and waiting for a fix.”

    Theories Behind the Issue

    One Reddit contributor speculated that the problem might be linked to “an intermediate certificate authority that expired March 9th, 2025.” This expiration appears to be causing authentication failures on Google’s servers for the second-generation Chromecast devices. It was suggested that this could be “an unintentional mistake by Google where they failed to account for the CA expiry.”

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  • Nest Protect Now Integrated with Google Home App

    Nest Protect Now Integrated with Google Home App

    Google is nearly finished with its shift from Nest to Google Home. The Nest Protect smoke and CO alarm, the final device that was solely part of Nest, has successfully transitioned to Google Home. This change means users no longer need to switch between different apps to get alerts or manage their connected devices. Smart home enthusiasts can now operate all their Nest devices along with compatible third-party gadgets entirely through the Google Home app.

    Android Users First

    Currently, only Android users who are part of the Public Preview program for Google Home can take advantage of the Nest Protect’s features. Support for iOS is anticipated to arrive soon. According to a blog post from Google’s Nest team, those who migrate their Nest Protect smoke alarms will have access to status alerts and emergency notifications. They can perform safety checks, conduct automatic sound tests, and view their live camera feed if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. Additionally, Nest Aware subscribers in the US can use the Google Home app to contact local emergency services.

    Expanding Smart Lock Features

    Google is also broadening the feature set for Matter-compatible smart locks within the Google Home app. For instance, password management is now more comprehensive, allowing homeowners to control access, modify passcodes, and set up guest profiles with clear labels like “dog walker” or “landscaper.” Public preview participants now have several new settings to customize their smart locks, such as one-tap lock and unlock, along with a timed automatic relock feature. There is also a new “Vacation mode” in the Home app, which effectively turns off the touchpad, preventing code entry. Just like the Nest Protect update, these enhancements are currently available for Android users in the Public Preview, but Google has promised support for iOS by “early 2025.”

    Limited Availability

    Not all Matter-compatible smart locks will be able to access these new features, but Google has specifically mentioned the Nest × Yale lock as an eligible option. You can purchase it now for 10% off on Amazon.

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    Nest Protect Now Integrated with Google Home App

     

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