Good news for owners of the Google Chromecast as Google has updated the device and it will now work with your TV remote.
You can now pause and resume playback on the Google Chromecast with your TV remote and the feature appears to work with a number of apps.
Supported Apps and Functionality
Some of the reported apps that the new feature works with include the BBC iPlayer, Google Play Music, YouTube, and more. This new functionality significantly enhances the user experience by allowing seamless control over media playback without needing to reach for a smartphone or tablet. For instance, if you’re watching a video on YouTube and need to pause it quickly, you can simply use your TV remote instead of fumbling for your mobile device.
The new feature works with HDMI-CEC, which stands for HDMI Consumer Electronics Control. HDMI-CEC is an extension of the HDMI protocol and this allows your TV remote to send signals to the Chromecast. This feature was apparently added to Google’s streaming device in the last software update. HDMI-CEC is a widely adopted standard that allows various HDMI-connected devices to communicate with each other, making it easier for users to control multiple devices with a single remote.
Limitations and Future Prospects
Not all apps support the feature at the moment. For example, it appears that the Netflix app does not support the use of the remote control, although we presume that this is something that will change in the future. Netflix is one of the most popular streaming services, and its integration with this new feature would be highly beneficial for users. Given Netflix’s history of adopting new technologies and features, it is likely that support for TV remote control will be added in a future update.
The addition of this feature is a significant step forward for Google Chromecast, making it more competitive with other streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV, which already offer similar functionalities. It also aligns with Google’s broader strategy of creating a more integrated and user-friendly ecosystem for its products.
Moreover, this update could pave the way for more advanced features in the future. For example, voice control via the TV remote could be a potential next step, allowing users to search for content, adjust volume, and perform other actions using voice commands. This would further simplify the user experience and make the Chromecast an even more attractive option for consumers.
The new update for Google Chromecast that allows it to work with your TV remote is a welcome addition that enhances the device’s usability. While not all apps support this feature yet, the ones that do offer a more convenient and streamlined experience. As more apps adopt this functionality, and as Google continues to innovate, the Chromecast will likely become an even more integral part of the modern home entertainment setup.
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