Google Rolls Out Firmware Update to Fix Chromecast (2nd Gen) and Audio 'Untrusted' Issue

Chromecast (2nd Gen) and Chromecast Audio Outage

Issue Details:

Over the past few days, owners of the Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio have experienced a significant issue where they cannot cast any audio or video content. The devices display an 'Untrusted device' message when selected as Cast targets in apps like YouTube.

• Symptoms:

  • The error message: "Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware."
  • Users are unable to proceed or find any workaround through reboots or resets.
  • Only the screensaver functionality (Google Photos, art, photography, etc.) with time and weather still works.

• Affected Devices:

  • Chromecast (2nd gen)
  • Chromecast Audio

Updates:

• 3/9: Google became aware of the issue affecting these devices and is working on a fix.
• 3/10: The company confirmed that the issue is being addressed, but no timeline was provided.
• 3/11: Google identified the cause of the issue and advised users not to factory reset their devices. A fix is in progress.
• 3/12: An email was sent to affected owners, reaffirming that a fix is on the way as soon as possible.
• 3/14: Firmware updates (1.56.467165 for Chromecast 2nd gen and 1.56.467166 for Chromecast Audio) are rolling out to address the issue. Users can force the update by unplugging and replugging their devices.

User Impact:

• Many users mistakenly believe that Google has bricked their devices or is announcing an end-of-life for these models. However, this is likely a bug, as there have been no official deprecation announcements.
• The Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio are among Google's oldest streaming devices, both announced in September 2015.

Conclusion:

Google has acknowledged the issue and is actively working on a fix. Users are advised to wait for the firmware update and avoid factory resets.