An old Google TV device can still be useful as a streamer, photo display, camera-feed screen, or audio-casting target. First identify what you own: “Google TV” is a platform used by different products, and model-specific directions for Chromecast with Google TV do not necessarily apply to every Google TV television or streaming device.
Identify the device before choosing a new job
Check the device label, its settings, or the original product information to confirm whether it is Chromecast with Google TV or another Google TV product. Google’s streaming support index covers multiple streaming devices; the Chromecast with Google TV product sheet describes that specific model. App availability, menus, and capabilities can differ, so confirm that the needed app and setting are available on your device.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Keep it as a second streaming and casting endpoint
Move a working device to a bedroom, guest room, or another TV that gets less use. Google Cast supports sending media from compatible apps to a TV, and the sender can control supported playback. Google describes the Cast SDK as a way for Android, iOS, or web apps to direct streaming video and audio to a TV or sound system (Google Cast).
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Use a compatible app and connect the sender and receiver to a compatible network. Support is not universal across apps, and the experience depends on the device, service, and network.
#1 Best Overall
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
2. Show photos or ambient imagery
Use photo casting when you want to put selected pictures or videos on the television. Google’s materials also describe Google Photos access and ambient screensaver settings, but those are distinct functions: casting is not the same as configuring an ambient display. Check the instructions and available options for your model in Google’s streaming help.
Do not assume an old device will run a continuous slideshow in the way you want. The available app and screensaver behavior depend on the model and its current software.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
3. Check a compatible home-camera feed on the TV
Google’s product and support materials describe streaming compatible Nest camera feeds to a TV. That can make a television a convenient screen for a live view, but it does not turn the device into a dedicated security monitor or a recording system. Camera compatibility and available commands depend on the camera and the rest of your setup. See Google’s streaming help for device-specific guidance.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
4. Give another HDMI screen streaming functions
A spare TV—or a monitor that supports the required video formats—may be able to use the device for streaming and casting. For Chromecast with Google TV, Google’s product sheet lists HDMI, Wi-Fi, power, and a supported Wi-Fi device among the requirements. It specifies a 5V, 1.5A power supply for that model and says it supports up to 4K HDR at 60 FPS with a suitable display and broadband connection (product information sheet).
Rank #3
- 4K Ultra HD Resolution: Enjoy your TV in stunning resolution Ultra HD ers four times the resolution of Full HD for greater clarity and detail
- Android TV: With the Android TV operating system you will have access to the best content, download the infinity of applications available through the Google Play Store!
- Voice remote control: Just press the Google Assistant button and ask it to find, play and control content
- Chromecast Built-in: Easily cast movies, shows, and photos from your Android or iOS device to your Android TV
- Easy Setup: Access your Google account and configure the device, language and Wi-Fi network
Those specifications apply to Chromecast with Google TV, not every product called Google TV. Before moving the device, check the display’s resolution and content-protection compatibility, along with the device’s power and network requirements. An HDMI port alone does not guarantee that every screen or adapter will work.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.5. Use it as a music or audio casting target
Cast music or other supported audio from a compatible app to the TV or connected sound system. Google’s Cast documentation covers music and audio as well as TV and movies, and describes moving a media session between connected devices (Google Cast). This is most useful when the screen is already connected to audio equipment you want to use.
Rank #4
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Sound comes from the TV or attached audio system, so the result depends on that equipment and the app’s Cast support.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Best Value
- No More App-Switching. Forget learning to navigate a new screen with every app. TiVo Stream 4K enables one centralized place for searching, browsing, and creating watch lists across all your apps..DC Input Range 5V/1.0A. Power Consumption : Maximum 5 W
- Recommendations Across All of Your Apps: Get rid of the walls between what you watch. TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on what you love, not where they live.
- Say it and watch it. The power of voice control makes it easy to find shows. Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights and more.
- One place for all your favorite streaming apps. TiVo Stream 4K includes Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock plus many more, so you can get to your shows fast.
- TiVo Stream 4K is one of Time Magazine’s “2020 Best Inventions, Special Mention” and PCMag hails it as “an excellent media streamer for TV lovers.” Operating Temperature 0˚C - 40˚C
Check support before relying on an old device
- Confirm the exact model before following product-specific instructions.
- Verify that the app, camera integration, or setting you need is available for that model.
- Check Google’s current support information and the device’s firmware. Support duration and update status are not established uniformly for every product called Google TV.
- Reserve the device for occasional entertainment or display use unless you have separately verified that it meets the reliability needs of a continuous business or security task.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
