Google Urges Chromecast Users: Avoid Factory Reset During Ongoing Outage

In light of a recent widespread outage affecting second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio devices, Google has issued a critical advisory urging users to refrain from performing factory resets. The disruption stems from an expired security certificate, which has rendered many devices inoperable . Despite the frustration this situation may cause for users, Google emphasizes that a factory reset will not remedy the underlying issue. Instead, they are actively developing an official fix to restore functionality.

Due to an expired security certificate, devices are unable to cast on Google's second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio, causing a significant and ongoing outage. The tech giant has acknowledged the issue and claims that a solution is in development.

Frustration is mounting on Reddit, where users have reportedly tried a number of fixes, including restarting the device, reinstalling Google Home, removing the device from Google Home and adding it again, restoring the device to factory settings, clearing cache data, and changing networks, but nothing works.

Google's second-generation Chromecast and its Chromecast Audio are suffering a major ongoing outage, with devices failing to cast due to an expired security certificate. The web giant is aware of the breakdown and says a fix is in the works.

On Sunday, many users of these gadgets encountered an "untrusted device" error, preventing them from casting content to TVs and other displays. Tech-savvy netizens quickly traced the issue to an expired intermediate certificate authority – created by Google to handle authentication for the affected equipment – which lapsed on March 9, 2025, at 1644 UTC after 10 years of validity. Models relying on this authority no longer work as expected due to this expiry; they can't securely connect to Google's backend systems and authenticate themselves.

"We're aware of an emerging issue impacting Chromecast 2nd gen and Chromecast Audio devices, and we are working on a fix," Google told The Register on Monday.

Moreover, while some users have attempted temporary workarounds—such as altering the date settings on their smartphones—Google cautions that these methods may not be universally effective . The company's recommendation to wait for a formal resolution is rooted in the understanding that premature troubleshooting can exacerbate the problem. It underscores the importance of adhering to official guidance during technical outages instead of resorting to potentially futile measures .

This incident highlights broader implications regarding device longevity and user dependency on older technology. As Google discontinued its Chromecast line last year, many individuals continue to rely on these legacy models . Ensuring clear communication and support during such outages is vital in maintaining user trust and satisfaction with technological products.

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Sarah H

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