Why is the built-in cast app rubbish?

by humphreybc

I bought a Sony Android TV last year and was excited to trim down my gadget count since it has a built-in Chromecast. Today I went back to using an actual Chromecast plugged into the TV because the built-in one is rubbish.

It constantly crashes (and then can't be found on the network again), you can't use your own photos as backdrop, the TV will exit the cast app when switch the picture off in the action menu, and there's no support for Chromecast audio.

Does anyone know why the built-in Chromecast is so bad on Android TV?

Masterofunlocking1

My mibox sucks when it comes to casting. I went and bought another Chromecast just to have in my living room.

Edit: the audio doesn't sync well on my mibox

JimboLodisC

The only thing I'll agree with here is the fact that video Chromecast devices not being able to be grouped with audio Chromecast devices is a bit silly.

Izacus

It's not, works perfectly fine and stable on my XD93. Just like with standard chromecast, a stable network connection is required though... Meaning a shit router will ruin your day.

vinecellar

I think the answer is the same as to the question of why the YouTube app doesn't work properly on Android TV.

That's Google ecosystem for you! The YouTube app works flawlessly at 60fps and for livestreams on my 3rd generation Apple TV (made in 2012, mind you). But not on my MiBox, as some companies apparently can't make their own apps work on their own OS on 2016 hardware.

I know I will get downvoted for not subscribing to the "popular opinion" around here, but what I say is true. It may not be the experience everyone has had, but it shouldn't be an experience anyone who buys Android TV should have. It's just YouTube for goodnes sakes, some people made it run on their fridges via java.

qozi

I think it's a Sony thing. I also have the same problems

simiwood

Casting is implemented differently on "chromecast built in" devices it uses the app on the device while a chromecast has no apps on it to use. I am hoping it gets better when atv gets assistant.

bla8291

I use to have many of those same problems on the Shield, but it must have been updated because it's been almost a year and it's been flawless since then.