Chromecast 4K with Google TV finally gets Android 12 upgrade

Since its launch in 2020, the Chromecast with Google TV has been stuck with Android TV 10, but an OS upgrade is finally rolling out this week.

The recently released Chromecast with Google TV (HD) came with Android TV 12, but the older 4K-capable Chromecast media streamer continued to run an older version of the OS. Now, as Android Police reports(Opens in a new window)a 722MB update includes the upgrade to Android 12.

The update can be triggered by accessing Settings > System > About > System Update, but it may not yet appear for all users. Once installed, it adds new settings to control HDR format and surround sound. It is also possible to switch between frame rates for different content and a range of bug fixes/performance improvements are included.

On the security front, the update includes the July 2022 Android security patch, increased security and privacy options, and new camera and mic privacy toggles so they can easily be disabled by the user. Existing users will also be happy to hear that Google has fixed the issue where the Chromecast would stop recognizing USB-C hubs after a restart.

Unfortunately, some owners who have installed the update claim that the experience of using Android TV 12 is much slower. Several users on Reddit(Opens in a new window) state that the UI was “more vivid” on Android TV 10.

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