Google Warns Against Factory Resetting Chromecast Devices Before Fix Rolls Out

Google has confirmed that it has identified an issue that has rendered select Chromecast devices unusable. According to the details, the issue specifically impacts Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio devices.

After originally acknowledging the issue on Monday, the company yesterday confirmed it has now identified the cause of the problem. With the issue identified, the company also confirmed it is actively working on resolving the issue via a fix.

“We’re working to resolve this as soon as possible, and will keep you updated when there is more to share.”

Google Nest Help Forum

In both of its updates this week, Google warned against factory resetting affected devices. The reason for this is that resetting a device can lead to a related problem where users are then unable to re-setup the device again.

Google also says it is working on a fix for the factory reset issue as well.

“The team has identified the cause for this as well and is currently working on a fix.”

Google Nest Help Forum

In terms of the original problem, users report affected devices have basically become unusable. According to those reports, the issue appears to stem from the expiration of an authentication certificate.

This results in affected devices being identified as ‘untrusted‘ when attempting to cast from another device, such as a smartphone.

Unlike the newer Google with Chromecast TV and Google TV Streamer, the Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio devices are completely reliant on casting, which means they are effectively useless in their current state.

While it remains unclear how long the fix will take to roll out, it does appear that Google is keen on resolving the issue as soon as possible.

Update: Google has now starting emailing affected Chromecast device owners to warn of the issue.

Here’s the email in full:

“We’re contacting you because of a disruption affecting Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio devices. We apologize for the issue and understand your frustration. We are working to roll out a fix as soon as possible and will share updates and guidance on the Nest Community page. We appreciate your patience as we resolve this issue.”