Samsung TVs Google Cast support is finally arriving as a free software update through Tizen OS, enabling direct casting from Android devices and compatible apps without requiring external hardware like Chromecast. This upgrade, rolling out globally starting in early 2024 to compatible models, addresses a surprising omission from a company that partners closely with Google on Android.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung is delivering Google Cast natively to recent TV models via free Tizen OS software update.
- The feature allows casting from YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, and other compatible apps directly from Android devices.
- Competitors like LG and Sony have offered native Google Cast support for years, making Samsung’s delay notable.
- Eligible TVs include 2022 and newer QLED, Neo QLED, and The Frame models; older Tizen TVs may not receive the update.
- Users previously relied on third-party workarounds like Samsung’s SmartView app or external Chromecast devices.
Why Samsung Took So Long to Add Google Cast
Samsung prioritized its proprietary SmartView ecosystem for years rather than embracing Google’s native casting standard. The company built a closed casting experience that worked, but frustrated Android users accustomed to seamless Google Cast integration on other platforms. Competitors moved faster: LG TVs have supported Google Cast since 2019, while Sony’s Android TV and Google TV models shipped with it from launch. The delay reflects Samsung’s historical preference for controlling its own software experience rather than outsourcing casting to Google’s infrastructure.
The timing of this update matters because it signals Samsung recognizing that ecosystem lock-in through proprietary features is losing ground to user convenience. Android users expect Google Cast to work everywhere—on Roku, Fire TV, LG, Sony, and countless smart displays. Samsung’s omission made its TVs feel less integrated with the broader Android ecosystem, despite the company being Android’s largest hardware partner globally.
Samsung TVs Google Cast vs. Competitor Casting Solutions
LG’s webOS platform has offered both AirPlay 2 and Google Cast natively since 2019, giving LG owners a two-year head start on cross-platform casting. Sony’s Android TV and Google TV models include Google Cast by default, making casting as simple as tapping a button on any Android phone. Roku TVs, often cheaper than Samsung equivalents, have supported casting for even longer. Samsung users previously had no native option and faced a choice: use SmartView (limited to Samsung’s ecosystem) or buy a separate Chromecast device.
The addition of Google Cast narrows this gap significantly. Samsung TVs now match LG and Sony on this feature, though LG still holds an advantage with AirPlay 2 support for iPhone and iPad users. For Android-only households, Samsung’s new capability closes the competitive disadvantage entirely.
How to Get Google Cast on Your Samsung TV
The update arrives as a free over-the-air software patch through Tizen OS on eligible models. Samsung TV owners should check the Samsung Members app to see if their model qualifies and whether the update is available in their region. Rollout began in the US and EU during early 2024, with global availability expanding throughout 2024 and into 2026 for all compatible models.
Eligible TVs include 2022 and newer QLED, Neo QLED, and The Frame models. Older Tizen TVs may not receive the update due to hardware or software limitations. Once installed, Google Cast appears in the TV’s casting menu, allowing direct casting from YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, Google Photos, and any other app supporting the standard. No additional hardware or subscription is required.
What Google Cast Actually Does on Samsung TVs
Google Cast enables device mirroring and app-specific streaming. Android users can mirror their entire phone screen to the TV for presentations or gaming, or cast individual apps for a cleaner experience. Casting an app streams only that content, leaving your phone free for other tasks—unlike mirroring, which locks your screen to the TV. For music, casting Spotify from your phone means the TV becomes a speaker while you control playback from your Android device. The feature works over Wi-Fi and integrates with Samsung’s existing SmartThings ecosystem.
The practical benefit is simplicity. Instead of launching an app on the TV’s remote, navigating menus, and signing in, Android users can open Netflix on their phone and tap Cast. The TV switches to Netflix automatically. This workflow is standard on other platforms and represents the baseline user expectation in 2024.
Is Google Cast Coming to Older Samsung TVs?
Samsung has not confirmed Google Cast support for TVs older than 2022. The company’s update policy typically limits major feature additions to recent hardware due to processor and memory constraints. Owners of 2021 or earlier models should not expect this update. However, Samsung continues selling external Chromecast devices and supports casting through its SmartView app, offering alternatives for older TV owners unwilling to upgrade.
FAQ
Does Google Cast work on all Samsung TV models?
No. Google Cast is rolling out to 2022 and newer Samsung TVs with Tizen OS, including QLED, Neo QLED, and The Frame models. Older Tizen TVs and Samsung’s entry-level models may not be eligible. Check the Samsung Members app for your specific model’s update status and regional availability.
Do I need to buy a Chromecast device if my Samsung TV has Google Cast?
No. Native Google Cast eliminates the need for a separate Chromecast device. You can cast directly from your Android phone, tablet, or Chromebook without additional hardware. However, existing Chromecast devices remain compatible if you already own one.
Can I cast from an iPhone to a Samsung TV with Google Cast?
Google Cast is designed for Android devices. iPhone users cannot cast directly via Google Cast. Samsung TVs do support AirPlay 2 through other means, but Google Cast specifically serves Android users. iPhone owners can use AirPlay or continue using Samsung’s SmartView app if available on their model.
Samsung’s addition of Google Cast closes a frustrating gap that should have been filled years ago. For Android users, it transforms the TV experience from clunky workarounds to seamless casting. For Samsung, it signals a shift toward prioritizing user convenience over proprietary ecosystem control—a lesson the company learned by watching competitors steal market share. The upgrade is free, requires no new hardware, and arrives exactly when Android users stopped waiting and bought LG or Sony instead.
Where to Buy
Samsung QN90F 65-inch Neo QLED 4K (2025) | Samsung QN80F 50-inch Neo QLED 4K (2025)
This article was written with AI assistance and editorially reviewed.
Source: T3
