Discover why your Chromecast 2nd Gen fails to cast audio during an ‘untrusted’ outage. Explore causes, step-by-step fixes, and the latest 2025 updates to resolve this issue quickly.
Introduction
As of March 2025, many users of Chromecast 2nd Gen and Chromecast Audio devices are experiencing a frustrating issue where they cannot cast audio due to an “Untrusted device” error. This problem, which started gaining attention recently, has left users unable to stream content from apps like YouTube or Spotify, displaying a message that the device couldn’t be verified, possibly due to outdated firmware. While this issue is specific to older models, it’s a significant inconvenience for those relying on these devices for home entertainment.
This article will break down what’s happening, explore potential causes, offer troubleshooting steps, and guide you on how to stay updated. We’ll also address common questions to help you navigate this outage effectively.
Possible Causes
The “Untrusted device” error suggests several potential causes, but given the widespread nature of the issue, it seems likely that a server-side problem from Google is at play. Here are the main possibilities:
- Outdated Firmware: The error message hints at firmware issues, but many users report their devices are already updated, suggesting this might not be the sole cause.
- Server-Side Issue: Research suggests a likely disruption in Google’s authentication servers, affecting many users simultaneously, as seen in recent reports.
- Certificate Expiration: Some evidence points to expired authentication certificates for these older models, which could mark them as untrusted.
- Network Configuration: While less probable, specific network settings might contribute, though the global scope suggests otherwise.
- Hardware Failure: Though unlikely, a batch hardware issue is possible, but the timing points more toward software or server problems.
Troubleshooting Steps
While a fix may require Google’s intervention, here are steps you can try:
- Restart the Device: Unplug your Chromecast, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in and try casting again.
- Check for Updates: Use the Google Home app, go to Settings > Device information > System, and install any available updates.
- Factory Reset: As a last resort, reset by holding the reset button for 25 seconds while plugged in, then set up again (note: this erases all settings).
- Check Network Settings: Ensure your Wi-Fi allows necessary ports and protocols for casting.
- Clear App Cache: On your phone, clear cache and data for casting apps like YouTube, then restart and try again.
Here’s a table summarizing these steps for easy reference:
| Step | Description | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Restart the Chromecast Device | Unplug, wait 10 seconds, plug back in |
| 2 | Check for Firmware Updates | Open Google Home app, go to device settings, check for updates |
| 3 | Factory Reset the Device | Unplug, press and hold reset button for 25 seconds, plug back in, set up again |
| 4 | Check Network Settings | Ensure correct Wi-Fi connection and network compatibility |
| 5 | Clear Cache and Data of Casting Apps | On smartphone, go to app settings, clear cache and data, restart app |
Staying Updated and Current Status
As of March 2025, Google has not issued an official statement on this outage, but it’s likely they’re working on a solution given the scale. To stay informed, check Google’s support page (support) or the Google Nest Community forum (community). You can also follow @GoogleHome on X for updates. Keep your device connected to receive potential over-the-air fixes.
Unexpected Detail
An unexpected detail is that while casting is disabled, some features like screensavers (showing Google Photos or art) still work, suggesting the device retains partial functionality despite the error.
Survey Note: Comprehensive Analysis of Chromecast 2nd Gen Audio Casting Issues in March 2025
Introduction and Context
As of March 9, 2025, a significant outage has impacted users of Chromecast 2nd Gen and Chromecast Audio devices, particularly in the USA, where many are unable to cast audio due to an “Untrusted device” error. This issue, first noted in recent reports, displays a message stating, “Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware,” and has sparked widespread discussion on platforms like Reddit’s r/Chromecast and r/googlehome. Given the timing, this article is crafted to reflect the situation as if analyzed in February 2025, aligning with the user’s request, while incorporating the most recent data available.
The problem is specific to older models released in 2015, with firmware at version 1.56.x, and does not affect newer models like Chromecast (3rd gen) or Ultra, as per observations from various tech news outlets. This outage is particularly frustrating for users who rely on these devices for streaming services like YouTube and Spotify, with reports indicating no end-user workarounds like reboots or resets have resolved the issue.
Detailed Problem Analysis
The error message, “Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware,” appears when users attempt to cast from apps, offering only a “close” option without further action. This suggests a verification failure, likely tied to server-side authentication processes. Notably, while casting is disabled, screensaver functionality (e.g., Google Photos, art displays with time and weather) remains operational, indicating partial device functionality. This distinction is crucial, as it implies the issue is not a complete device failure but rather a specific casting impediment.
Reports from sources like 9to5Google (Chromecast 2nd Gen Audio) and The Verge (Untrusted Errors) confirm the issue’s scope, affecting users globally, not just in the USA, and starting within the past few hours as of March 9, 2025. This aligns with the user’s request for a February 2025 perspective, suggesting we treat this as a recent trend observed then, with ongoing implications.
Possible Causes Explored
Several potential causes have been identified, with the following breakdown based on recent analyses:
- Outdated Firmware: The error message suggests firmware issues, but user reports indicate devices are on the latest 1.56.x firmware, suggesting this may not be the primary cause. Given the age of these devices (released in September 2015), firmware support might be limited, but updates have been attempted without success.
- Server-Side Issue: Given the simultaneous global impact, it seems likely that a server-side problem, such as a disruption in Google’s authentication or verification servers, is at play. This is supported by articles like Android Authority (Authentication Error), which note the issue’s widespread nature.
- Certificate Expiration: Some reports, including from TechTimes (Outage Details), suggest an expired authentication certificate, particularly for these older models, could mark them as untrusted. This is plausible given the devices’ age and Google’s potential phasing out of support, though no official deprecation has been announced beyond the original Chromecast in May 2023.
- Network Configuration: While less likely, network settings like strict security policies or blocked ports could contribute. However, the global reports across various networks, as seen in outage maps (Outage Report), suggest this is not the main issue.
- Hardware Failure: Though possible, the simultaneous nature points away from hardware, with more evidence leaning toward software or server issues. This is less supported but mentioned for completeness, given the devices’ age.
Troubleshooting Steps and User Actions
Given the likely server-side nature, user-side fixes may be limited, but the following steps, derived from community forums and support pages, can be attempted:
- Restart the Chromecast Device: Unplug, wait 10 seconds, plug back in. This simple step can resolve temporary glitches, as suggested in Google’s support documentation (Troubleshoot Connection).
- Check for Firmware Updates: Use the Google Home app (Settings > Device information > System) to ensure the latest firmware is installed, though reports indicate this hasn’t resolved the issue for many.
- Factory Reset the Device: As a last resort, perform a reset by holding the reset button for 25 seconds while plugged in, then set up again. Note, this erases all settings, and some advise against it due to potential setup issues post-reset, as per EFTM (Error Headaches).
- Check Network Settings: Ensure Wi-Fi allows multicast traffic, necessary for casting, and disable any VPN or filtering software temporarily.
- Clear Cache and Data of Casting Apps: On your smartphone, clear cache and data for apps like YouTube, then restart and try casting again, as suggested in community forums (My Humax Forum).
For ease of reference, here’s a table summarizing these steps:
| Step | Description | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Restart the Chromecast Device | Unplug, wait 10 seconds, plug back in |
| 2 | Check for Firmware Updates | Open Google Home app, go to device settings, check for updates |
| 3 | Factory Reset the Device | Unplug, press and hold reset button for 25 seconds, plug back in, set up again |
| 4 | Check Network Settings | Ensure correct Wi-Fi connection and network compatibility |
| 5 | Clear Cache and Data of Casting Apps | On smartphone, go to app settings, clear cache and data, restart app |
Updates from Google and Current Status
As of March 9, 2025, Google has not issued an official statement specifically addressing this outage, though community support suggestions from past instances (e.g., Google Nest Community (Untrusted Device)) recommend resets or updates, which haven’t worked here. Given the scale, it’s likely Google is aware and working on a server-side fix, as speculated in articles like 9to5Google, which note no deprecation announcements for these models beyond the original Chromecast in May 2023.
Users are advised to keep devices connected for potential over-the-air updates, with no clear timeline for resolution yet. This aligns with the user’s request for February 2025 updates, suggesting we frame this as ongoing then, with expectations of a fix soon.
Staying Updated and Additional Recommendations
To stay informed, users can:
- Follow Google’s support page (support) and the Google Nest Community forum (community) for announcements.
- Join Reddit communities like r/Chromecast for real-time updates, where threads on this issue have been active.
- Check @GoogleHome on X for any official posts, and use hashtags like #ChromecastOutage for community insights.
- Regularly check the Google Home app for notifications or updates.
Additional tips include patience, given server-side issues often take time, exploring alternatives like AirPlay for Apple devices, and backing up settings before resets to ease reconfiguration post-fix.
Conclusion and User Guidance
The “Untrusted device” error for Chromecast 2nd Gen and Audio devices is a significant disruption, likely requiring Google’s intervention due to its server-side nature. While users can try the outlined troubleshooting steps, patience is key, with recommendations to stay updated via official channels. For those reliant on casting, considering newer models not affected might be an option, though not immediately necessary given potential quick resolution.
This analysis, framed for February 2025, ensures users have comprehensive guidance, acknowledging the complexity and empathizing with the frustration caused by this outage.
FAQ: Chromecast 2nd Gen Audio Not Casting During ‘Untrusted’ Outage:
1. What does the ‘Untrusted device’ error mean on Chromecast 2nd Gen in 2025?
A. The “Untrusted device” error on Chromecast 2nd Gen in 2025 indicates that the device cannot be verified for casting, often displaying the message “Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware.” Recent reports suggest this is likely a server-side issue from Google rather than a firmware problem, affecting audio and video casting globally.
2. Why is my Chromecast 2nd Gen not casting audio during the 2025 outage?
A. Your Chromecast 2nd Gen may not be casting audio due to a widespread outage that began in early 2025, linked to an “Untrusted device” error. Possible causes include Google’s server authentication issues, expired certificates for older devices, or network disruptions, with the most likely culprit being a server-side glitch affecting 2nd Gen and Audio models.
3. How can I fix the Chromecast 2nd Gen ‘Untrusted’ outage issue in 2025?
A. To fix the Chromecast 2nd Gen “Untrusted” outage issue in 2025, try restarting the device by unplugging it for 10 seconds, checking for firmware updates via the Google Home app, or performing a factory reset (hold the reset button for 25 seconds). However, since this appears to be a server-side problem, these steps may not work until Google releases a fix.
4. Is the Chromecast 2nd Gen audio casting outage a sign of Google ending support in 2025?
A. No official announcement from Google indicates the end of support for Chromecast 2nd Gen in 2025. While the “Untrusted device” error has led to speculation about bricking or discontinuation, it’s more likely a temporary server bug, as Google has not deprecated these devices like the 1st Gen in 2023. Stay updated via Google’s support channels.
5. What should I do if my Chromecast Audio won’t cast during the ‘Untrusted’ outage?
A. If your Chromecast Audio won’t cast during the “Untrusted” outage, try basic troubleshooting: restart the device, ensure it’s on the latest firmware (1.56.x), and check your network connection. Given the outage’s global impact in 2025, monitor Google’s official updates, as a server-side resolution is likely needed.
6. Can a factory reset solve the Chromecast 2nd Gen ‘Untrusted’ error in 2025?
A. A factory reset (holding the reset button for 25 seconds) may not solve the Chromecast 2nd Gen “Untrusted” error in 2025, as the issue appears tied to Google’s servers rather than local device settings. Some users report setup difficulties post-reset, so proceed cautiously and only as a last resort.
7. Why does my Chromecast 2nd Gen still show screensavers but not cast audio in 2025?
A. During the 2025 “Untrusted” outage, your Chromecast 2nd Gen may still display screensavers (e.g., Google Photos or art) because this feature operates independently of casting functionality. The outage specifically affects casting authentication, leaving other features intact, pointing to a server-side issue.
8. Are newer Chromecast models affected by the ‘Untrusted’ outage in 2025?
A. No, newer Chromecast models like the 3rd Gen, Ultra, and Chromecast with Google TV are not affected by the “Untrusted” outage in 2025. Reports indicate this issue is exclusive to older models, specifically the 2nd Gen and Chromecast Audio, suggesting a compatibility or server issue with these devices.
9. How long will the Chromecast 2nd Gen ‘Untrusted’ outage last in 2025?
A. As of March 2025, there’s no official timeline for resolving the Chromecast 2nd Gen “Untrusted” outage. Given its server-side nature, Google is likely working on a fix, which could take hours to days. Check Google’s support page or social media (@GoogleHome on X) for the latest updates.
10. What are the best alternatives if the Chromecast 2nd Gen outage persists in 2025?
A. If the Chromecast 2nd Gen outage persists in 2025, consider alternatives like the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, or newer Chromecast models (e.g., Chromecast with Google TV). These devices offer reliable casting and streaming, with broader app support and no reported issues related to the “Untrusted” error.
Chromecast 2nd Gen Audio Not Casting Untrusted Outage 2025 Causes and Fixes, How to Fix Chromecast 2nd Gen Untrusted Device Error Audio Casting Issues 2025, Chromecast 2nd Gen Untrusted Outage 2025 Latest Updates and Solutions, Chromecast Audio Not Working During Untrusted Device Outage 2025 Troubleshooting Guide, Chromecast 2nd Gen Firmware Update Issues Untrusted Outage 2025 Explained,
