Chromecast (2nd Gen) and Chromecast Audio Hit by Widespread "Untrusted Device" Error: A Timeline of the Issue and the Ongoing Fix
A frustrating issue has plagued owners of the Chromecast (2nd generation) and Chromecast Audio devices, rendering them effectively unusable for casting audio and video content. Over the past several days, users have reported encountering an "Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware" error message when attempting to cast from various apps like YouTube to their Chromecast devices. The problem seems to be universally affecting users of these specific Chromecast models, causing widespread disruption and prompting concerns about the devices’ longevity.
The error message appears immediately after selecting the Chromecast (2nd gen) or Chromecast Audio as the intended cast target within an application. Unfortunately, the dialog box offers no solutions, providing only the option to "close" it, effectively halting the casting process. Users have confirmed that standard troubleshooting steps, such as rebooting the Chromecast, performing factory resets, and attempting various network configurations, have proven futile in resolving the issue. The Chromecast’s screensaver functionality, which displays Google Photos, art, or photography along with the time and weather information, continues to function normally, indicating that the devices are not entirely bricked, but the core casting functionality remains broken.
The problem seemingly originated around March 9th, and the ensuing days have been marked by a growing sense of frustration and uncertainty among affected users. Many initially feared that Google had intentionally bricked their older Chromecasts or was announcing their end-of-life, similar to the deprecation of support for the original Chromecast (1st gen) in May 2023. However, the lack of any official announcement regarding the end of support for the 2nd generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio fueled speculation that the issue was more likely a software bug than a deliberate decision to discontinue support. Notably, even the original Chromecast continues to function for those who still use it, further suggesting a bug as the culprit.
Google has acknowledged the issue and has been providing updates, albeit with limited details on the exact cause and a firm timeline for a resolution. On March 10th, Google confirmed that it was "aware of an issue with Chromecast v2 and Chromecast Audio devices" and that its team was actively working on a fix. The following day, March 11th, brought another update, stating that the "team has identified the cause of the issue impacting Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio devices." While this announcement provided a glimmer of hope, it lacked specifics, leaving users anxious for a definitive solution.
On March 12th, as the situation stretched into its fourth day, Google sent out an email to Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio owners, offering more direct communication about the ongoing issue. The email reiterated their awareness of the problem and their commitment to resolving it "as soon as possible," but it failed to provide a concrete timeline for the fix. This lack of a specific timeframe further fueled the community’s frustration, as users were left in the dark about when they could expect their devices to return to normal functionality.
Finally, on March 14th, Google announced that a firmware update was rolling out to the affected devices. Firmware version 1.56.467165 is being pushed to the Chromecast (2nd gen), while the Chromecast Audio is receiving version 1.56.467166. Users can verify the update status by checking the device page within the Google Home app. According to numerous reports worldwide, the update is being distributed to streaming devices.
To expedite the update process, users are advised to unplug their Chromecast from power and then plug it back in. On TVs, an upgrade screen will display the progress of the update. This update is anticipated to resolve the "Untrusted device" error and restore the normal casting functionality of the affected Chromecasts.
However, a critical question remains unanswered. Google has yet to provide details about a fix for users who have already performed a factory reset on their streaming dongles in a misguided attempt to resolve the issue. The factory reset process may have inadvertently exacerbated the problem for some users, and Google needs to provide specific guidance on how to restore functionality to these devices.
The incident has highlighted the potential vulnerabilities of connected devices and the reliance on software updates for their proper operation. While the Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio are relatively old devices, they remain popular among users due to their simplicity and affordability. This incident serves as a reminder that even well-established devices can be susceptible to software glitches that can severely impact their functionality.
The promptness and effectiveness of Google’s response to the situation will undoubtedly influence user confidence in the company’s ability to support its older products. The ongoing rollout of the firmware update is a crucial step in restoring functionality to the affected Chromecasts, but Google must also address the concerns of users who performed factory resets. As the situation continues to unfold, Chromecast owners are closely monitoring Google’s progress and eagerly awaiting the full restoration of their devices’ casting capabilities. The company needs to provide clarity and support to those who attempted troubleshooting steps that might have inadvertently complicated their situation.
In the meantime, users are encouraged to monitor the Google Home app for the firmware update and to unplug and replug their Chromecasts to initiate the upgrade process. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation evolves and Google releases more information about the fix for factory-reset devices.
