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5 ways to use your Chromecast TV beyond streaming shows (including a smart home hack)

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Elyse Betters Picaro/ZDNET

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Since 2014, Google's Chromecast has been an affordable way for viewers to turn their older model TVs into smart TVs, allowing them to stream content from their phones, tablets, and computers to a larger screen.

Also: Don't cancel Netflix yet: I used these secret codes to unlock the full catalog of shows

Alas, the era of the Chromecast has come to an end. Google is replacing it with the Google TV Streamer, promising a faster processor, Thread and Matter integration, and the ability to summarize TV episodes or whole seasons, among other new tricks.

However, that doesn't mean the Chromecast is obsolete yet; in fact, Google has promised to continue providing software and security updates for the time being. I discovered several cool features that anyone can utilize with their trusty Chromecast, which most users are unaware of.

1. Cast your favorite tunes to your TV

Numerous music streaming platforms, such as Spotify, SiriusXM, Amazon Music, and Pandora, can stream music directly to your Chromecast device. Why not get a bigger sound from your TV speakers or, better yet, the soundbar you have hooked up to it?

Ensure that your device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the Chromecast, and then locate the More Devices button or Chromecast icon in your app. Select your Chromecast from the options that appear, and start streaming. When you want to disconnect, use the Google Home app to stop streaming from your music app.

2. Check out Chromecast Preview

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