Google has finally released the long-awaited Android 14 update for Chromecast with Google TV devices, despite having discontinued the product line last year. While the update brings some welcome improvements, early user reports suggest it may also introduce significant functionality issues for some users.
The Update Finally Arrives
After months of delay, Google has begun rolling out the Android 14 update for Chromecast with Google TV devices. The update, identified as build UTTC.241218.004, weighs in at approximately 743MB or 809MB depending on which Chromecast model you own. This represents a significant jump from Android 12, which was the previous operating system version running on these streaming dongles. The update comes despite Google having discontinued the Chromecast lineup in August 2024, replacing it with the more powerful Google TV Streamer.
Chromecast with Google TV Update Details:
- Update build: UTTC.241218.004
- Size: 743MB (HD model) or 809MB (4K model)
- OS upgrade: Android 12 → Android 14
- Security patch: Updated to January 2025
- New features: Support for Find My Remote feature and customizable button
What's Included in the Update
The Android 14 update delivers several improvements to Chromecast with Google TV devices. Most notably, it includes security patches updated through January 2025, providing users with enhanced protection against vulnerabilities. The update also adds support for the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote's Find My Remote feature and introduces a customizable button functionality. Google claims the update brings system stability and improvements, though as we'll see, some users might disagree with that assessment.
User-Reported Issues
Despite the promised improvements, early adopters of the update have reported several concerning issues. Some users have experienced problems with local media implementation, with devices apparently utilizing too little power even when adequate input should be available. Others have reported that their USB drive detection has broken following the update, with drives being identified as safely ejected but not actually being readable by the device. Additional complaints include crashes when scrolling through the Display and Sound settings and inability to cast from Chrome on desktop machines.
Reported Issues:
- Local media implementation problems
- USB drive detection failures
- Settings menu crashes
- Casting functionality broken for some users
The Last Major Update?
This Android 14 update could potentially be the final major update that Google rolls out for older Chromecast devices. According to Google's support timeline, the 4K Chromecast will continue receiving security patches until the end of September 2025, while the Chromecast HD should get firmware updates until September 2027. However, with Google having discontinued sales of Chromecast with Google TV and shifted focus to its newer Google TV Streamer, significant feature updates seem unlikely going forward.
Support Timeline:
- Chromecast 4K: Security patches until September 2025
- Chromecast HD: Firmware updates until September 2027
Should You Update?
Given the mixed reports from users who have already installed the update, Chromecast owners may want to consider waiting before updating their devices. While the security improvements are valuable, the potential for losing functionality like USB drive access or casting capabilities might outweigh the benefits for some users. If you rely heavily on these features, it might be prudent to wait until Google addresses the reported issues with a subsequent patch.
How to Update (If You Choose To)
For those who decide to proceed with the update despite the potential issues, the process is straightforward. Navigate to Settings > System > About > System update on your Chromecast with Google TV device to check if the update is available. Keep in mind that Google is rolling out the update in stages, so it may not be immediately available for all users. This staged rollout approach may actually be beneficial, giving Google time to address reported issues before the update reaches all devices.