How to Set Up Your Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Before You Begin

The Chromecast with Google TV (4K) is a streaming media player that plugs into your TV's HDMI port and provides access to all major streaming services through a unified, content-first interface powered by Google TV. It includes a voice remote with a dedicated Google Assistant button and supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.

What You Will Need

• Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
• The included voice remote and two AAA batteries
• The included USB-C power cable and power adapter
• A TV with an available HDMI port
• A 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi network
• The Google Home app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
• A Google account

Step 1: Connect to Your TV

1. Plug the Chromecast dongle into an available HDMI port on your TV.
2. Connect the USB-C power cable to the Chromecast and plug the power adapter into a wall outlet. The Chromecast requires external power — a TV's USB port typically does not provide enough power for the 4K model.
3. Turn on your TV and switch to the HDMI input where you connected the Chromecast.
4. The Chromecast will boot up and display a welcome screen on your TV.

Step 2: Set Up the Remote

1. Open the battery compartment on the back of the voice remote and insert the two included AAA batteries.
2. The remote should automatically pair with the Chromecast. If it does not, press and hold the Back and Home buttons simultaneously until the remote's LED blinks, indicating pairing mode.
3. Once paired, you can use the remote to navigate the on-screen setup process.

Step 3: Choose Your Setup Method

1. The Chromecast will offer two setup options: Set up with the Google Home app or Set up on your TV.
2. Using the Google Home app is recommended because it allows you to use your phone's keyboard for entering passwords and signing into accounts much faster.
3. If using the app, open the Google Home app on your phone, tap +, then Set up device > New device, and follow the prompts. The app will scan the QR code displayed on the TV screen.
4. If setting up directly on the TV, use the remote to navigate through menus and enter information using the on-screen keyboard.

Step 4: Connect to Wi-Fi and Sign In

1. Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
2. Sign in with your Google account. This links the Chromecast to your Google services including YouTube, Google Play, and Google Assistant.
3. Accept the terms of service and privacy settings as prompted.
4. If using the Google Home app, the Wi-Fi credentials and account details can be transferred from your phone automatically.

Step 5: Configure Your Streaming Services

1. The setup process will ask which streaming services you use. Select all that apply — Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, and many others.
2. The selected services will be installed on the Chromecast automatically.
3. After setup, you can sign into each individual app. Some apps support linking from your phone to speed up the sign-in process.
4. Google TV's home screen aggregates content from all your installed services, showing recommendations in a unified interface.

Step 6: Set Up the Remote for TV Control

1. During setup, the Chromecast will guide you through programming the voice remote to control your TV's power, volume, and input.
2. Select your TV brand from the list. The setup will test IR codes to find the ones that work with your TV.
3. Confirm that the volume buttons and power button work correctly with your TV.
4. If your TV is not listed or the codes do not work, you can set this up later in Settings > Remotes & Accessories.

Step 7: Explore Google TV

1. The For You tab shows personalized recommendations across all your streaming services.
2. Use the Google Assistant button on the remote to search for content by voice — say "Show me action movies" or "Open Netflix."
3. The Apps tab lets you browse and install additional apps from the Google Play Store.
4. You can cast content from your phone to the Chromecast by tapping the Cast icon in any supported app on your phone.

Tips for Best Performance

• For 4K HDR streaming, use the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band for faster speeds. If your TV is far from the router, a mesh Wi-Fi system or Ethernet adapter (sold separately) can help.
• Enable Ambient Mode to display art, photos from your Google Photos library, or useful information when the TV is not actively streaming.
• The Chromecast with Google TV also functions as a smart home hub — you can view Nest camera feeds on your TV by saying "Hey Google, show me the front door."
• Keep the Chromecast updated by going to Settings > System > About > System update.