The experience of casting YouTube to a Chromecast-connected TV has remained largely unchanged over the past few years. Google now wants to make a pseudo-YouTube app for Chromecast that will be used after the Android TV version.
Historically, a video player containing basic details (channel name, watch count, date and time) is located in the lower left corner, to throw from your phone to a Chromecast connected TV. After the track is completed, you will be taken back to a “Ready to Watch” flash screen with instructions.
Some users now see a completely different experience starting with a remote control that appears in the YouTube mobile app. The player that appears on the Chromecast / TV allows users to change resolution, captions, subtitles and even access “Statistics for nerds”. In addition, they can add new videos to the queue / playlist.
Instead of being taken to the lock screen on the lock of the video, there is a home screen with suggestions to watch next, like Android TV. The ability to log in was also available through the Watch on TV link option.
At least two users have encountered this YouTube for Chromecast app so far, and u / garethonreddit managed to capture a settings screen on the Chromecast Ultra. We learn from the ‘Version’ number that it’s a ‘web’ experience, while ‘Client’ notices how it’s powered by HTML5. Users are able to clear the view and search history, as well as ‘Reset the app’.
In the meantime, u / greyhood_39 received this new user interface on the third generation Chromecast and told us today that there has been quite an increase in ads with this interface.
With this new app, Google offers a much more powerful – especially with player control – and engaging YouTube experience on its highly affordable streaming dongles. There are obvious benefits to shared browsing and being able to do more on the biggest screen in your home.
This YouTube app for Chromecast experience is still being tested and has since disappeared for both users. We could not repeat it on our devices.
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