Many owners of second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio devices are reporting an unexpected problem today: they can't cast content. Instead, users are greeted with an "untrusted device" error message, stating that the device "couldn't be verified" and that "this could be caused by outdated device firmware."
Users report that this issue affects all second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio devices, with no apparent fixes.
After selecting the device as a casting target, the issue appears in several apps, including YouTube.
Once the warning appears, the sole option is to close the dialogue box—casting remains disabled. Additionally, the screen saver functionality, which displays Google Photos or art with the time and weather, continues to work without issue.
The problem doesn't affect newer Chromecast models, including Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra.
Given the abrupt nature of this problem and Google's lack of prior announcements, many users believe that the company has quietly ended support for these older devices.
However, Google has not issued a formal deprecation notice, as it did when it retired the original Chromecast (1st gen) in 2023.
According to reports on Reddit, at least one user has contacted Google Support, which confirmed that the company is aware of the issue and is working on a fix.
However, Google has not officially commented on the situation.
The Chromecast was officially discontinued in August 2023. However, Google said it would offer software and security updates for supported devices.
If this issue means the end of functionality for the second generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio, many users will be disappointed, particularly those relying on Chromecast Audio for its unique and straightforward music streaming capabilities.
While modern alternatives exist, very few match the simplicity and charm of Google's small but beloved music streamer.