Google Posts Massive User Experience Guide For Chromecast Developers - Google Chromecast

Hi this is great news! Chromecast is getting its turn with a brand new User Experience Guide!
I read this article in androidpolice.com in this link:
http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/1...lopers-still-no-word-on-the-whitelist-policy/
The guide is here:
https://developers.google.com/cast/design_consider

Google Cast is a technology that allows Android and iOS mobile apps and Chrome web apps to “cast” content - like video, audio, and screen sharing (mirroring) - to Cast-ready devices like Google Chromecast.
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(Emphasis added)
Screen sharing must be coming!!

bhiga said:
(Emphasis added)
Screen sharing must be coming!!
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Click to collapse
Koush saw it in the source code of KitKat so yes it will be coming but it may be restricted. and dependent on the Unit Manufacturer for implementation.
Which suggests it may not work for apps (they would use the current methods) and be a Device and ROM specific feature.
The fact that it will be possible will make those restriction more like Guidelines than rules once Devs get their hands on how it works.

I am loving where this is all going! As I always say..it is only a matter of time.
Sent from my SCH-R970 using Tapatalk 2

shelby04861 said:
I am loving where this is all going! As I always say..it is only a matter of time.
Sent from my SCH-R970 using Tapatalk 2
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Click to collapse
Amen!

Also the guide makes it clear that the current Chromecast is only one implementation. I think the rumors of a Nexus TV being announced early next year are probably true and it will include native Cast support.

bozzykid said:
Also the guide makes it clear that the current Chromecast is only one implementation. I think the rumors of a Nexus TV being announced early next year are probably true and it will include native Cast support.
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Yes I can see some Smart TVs adding this capability natively at some point. Biggest user complaint they get is they hate the Menu and navigation on the TV and this might make it easier to create an App that would do all this for their TVs in a much better way!
The good news on this Google release is it seems to suggest the SDK is about to drop to the FULL PUBLIC...
It was invitation only before the Hackathon and I think the Hackathon was really meant to test the SDK to see if it was ready for Public consumption...
Once it goes full public expect to see a FLOOD of Apps supporting CCast maybe even Games where the video displays on the TV but the phone or tablet just has control functions. Would open the door to much more sophisticated control options in the vain of what PC has been able to do via it's keyboard.

Asphyx said:
Yes I can see some Smart TVs adding this capability natively at some point. Biggest user complaint they get is they hate the Menu and navigation on the TV and this might make it easier to create an App that would do all this for their TVs in a much better way!
.
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Yes, indeed. Lately, I have found myself wanting to use YouTube more and more on a big screen and, even though my TV is only 2 years old, navigating to the TV app is a painful experience.
I bought my Chromecast specifically for YouTube and for me it was worth the $35 just to be able to access it without having to trawl through the clunky TV menus Everything that came last week and the features still to come have been a has been a great bonus .

Restorer said:
Yes, indeed. Lately, I have found myself wanting to use YouTube more and more on a big screen and, even though my TV is only 2 years old, navigating to the TV app is a painful experience.
I bought my Chromecast specifically for YouTube and for me it was worth the $35 just to be able to access it without having to trawl through the clunky TV menus Everything that came last week and the features still to come have been a has been a great bonus .
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I tell my friends that if they can find one to avoid buying a smart TV since there are so many better ways to get that capability including just hooking a Computer to the Monitor.
But try and find a TV without it! LOL

Related

Anyone else looking forward to Turning Chromecast into the new Pi / XBMC stick.

topic.
I, for one, am paying close attention to any functionality like this to surface, then it'll truly meet my needs.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
littleemp said:
topic.
I, for one, am paying close attention to any functionality like this to surface, then it'll truly meet my needs.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
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Click to collapse
I would love xbmc on it. i have an old dell as my htpc and my pi as my tv computer. id love it!
I want this too.
Some people say to just get a pi but what they don't understand is with a pi which is 35$ alone you still don't get an SD card, wireless adapter, HDMI cord or even a case. Not to mention iirc Chrome cast is clocked 300Mhz higher than the raspberry with even lower power consumption.
thatbigmoose said:
I want this too.
Some people say to just get a pi but what they don't understand is with a pi which is 35$ alone you still don't get an SD card, wireless adapter, HDMI cord or even a case. Not to mention iirc Chrome cast is clocked 300Mhz higher than the raspberry with even lower power consumption.
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Click to collapse
damn. We need someone on this stat!
Lookin forward to replacing my original xbox with this, for my new xbmc media player...
littleemp said:
topic.
I, for one, am paying close attention to any functionality like this to surface, then it'll truly meet my needs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same thing here. This is really why I bought one.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk 4
I cant wait for this. As soon as this happens I will buy a chromecast for all the tvs in the house
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 4
Cast Xmbc over Chromecast using Avia Player
Hi,
You can now cast XMBC over Chromecast using Avia Player($2.99 Addon Charge). A video tutorial is up on You Tube.
Using Smartphone - XMBC can be watched over Chromecast through Avia Player which costs $2.99. YouTube Video shows how.
http://youtu.be/vS-7hwYe4nw
Using Computer - XMBC can be watched over Chromecast through Avia Player which costs $2.99. YouTube Video shows how.
http://youtu.be/NCgP0r5Dvp8
Good Luck
It will never be a XBMC stick...
What you might get though is have XBMC stream to it and support other DIAL devices, once the XBMC devs stop being stubborn and listen to what their Users have been asking for.
They seem to think DIAL isn't worth supporting since they already support UPnP.
Asphyx said:
It will never be a XBMC stick...
What you might get though is have XBMC stream to it and support other DIAL devices, once the XBMC devs stop being stubborn and listen to what their Users have been asking for.
They seem to think DIAL isn't worth supporting since they already support UPnP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Rockchip MK808 stick runs XBMC and Cheapcast..indeed most Android phones you might have lying around collecting dust will do. I don't use it much, but the wife loves her Android games on the big xcreen.
wideasleep1 said:
My Rockchip MK808 stick runs XBMC and Cheapcast..indeed most Android phones you might have lying around collecting dust will do. I don't use it much, but the wife loves her Android games on the big xcreen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your Rockchip Stick has everything needed to navigate/control it via BT Same with Phones...CCast has none of this.
Whats more is the fact that Source compatibility is going to be a real problem there, You can't store content on the CCast and while reading from a network source is possible that source had better be CCast compatible or it won't play well.
But even if you manage to get past all those hurdles you have one bigger issue to contend with that you can't really solve....
Google will never Whitelist it as it does not conform to their UI Guidelines at all.
I would much rather see XBMC add the ability to send content to DIAL devices because the PC/MAC/LINUX versions of XBMC could easily add Transcoding to their system if they wanted to and remove the source compatibility issue and it would allow two people in the house to watch the same content on different TVs.
Asphyx said:
Your Rockchip Stick has everything needed to navigate/control it via BT Same with Phones...CCast has none of this.
Whats more is the fact that Source compatibility is going to be a real problem there, You can't store content on the CCast and while reading from a network source is possible that source had better be CCast compatible or it won't play well.
But even if you manage to get past all those hurdles you have one bigger issue to contend with that you can't really solve....
Google will never Whitelist it as it does not conform to their UI Guidelines at all.
I would much rather see XBMC add the ability to send content to DIAL devices because the PC/MAC/LINUX versions of XBMC could easily add Transcoding to their system if they wanted to and remove the source compatibility issue and it would allow two people in the house to watch the same content on different TVs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that's no surprise really. I'm still somewhat surprised folks want so much from what amounts to a hdmi-alternative wireless dongle. Sure it's handy and works great for the services it currently supports (tab casting aside..simply atrocious for me) and it's dirt cheap to be a no brainer. But to get real server services requires an entirely different approach: a front end/back end and expandable, stable database. CC ain't gonna take us there.
wideasleep1 said:
Well that's no surprise really. I'm still somewhat surprised folks want so much from what amounts to a hdmi-alternative wireless dongle. Sure it's handy and works great for the services it currently supports (tab casting aside..simply atrocious for me) and it's dirt cheap to be a no brainer. But to get real server services requires an entirely different approach: a front end/back end and expandable, stable database. CC ain't gonna take us there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the age-old conundrum - specialized device, or general-purpose device?
It's like getting a dishwasher versus a housekeeper.
Dishwasher is predictable and doesn't ask for a raise or days off but it won't wash or fold your clothes.
Housekeeper can wash dishes and wash and fold clothes, but might ask for a raise or days off.
The best solution really depends on the individual situation.
wideasleep1 said:
Well that's no surprise really. I'm still somewhat surprised folks want so much from what amounts to a hdmi-alternative wireless dongle. Sure it's handy and works great for the services it currently supports (tab casting aside..simply atrocious for me) and it's dirt cheap to be a no brainer. But to get real server services requires an entirely different approach: a front end/back end and expandable, stable database. CC ain't gonna take us there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I guess some folks don't realize the limitations of this device and how in some cases Less is actually more!
The simplicity of how CCast works makes it much more versatile than Miracast or DLNA Dongles,
But something like XBMC or Plex frontends which requires saving files and a Database will never be one of those things it does well.
And that doesn't even address the Navigation issues. The whole point of CCast is to make a device you can display to (Like Miracast) while off loading Power, and Navigation to another device that is much easier to write code for but doesn't require tying up the device to display (Like Miracast) a very targeted solution to a very specific problem.
bhiga said:
It's the age-old conundrum - specialized device, or general-purpose device?
It's like getting a dishwasher versus a housekeeper.
Dishwasher is predictable and doesn't ask for a raise or days off but it won't wash or fold your clothes.
Housekeeper can wash dishes and wash and fold clothes, but might ask for a raise or days off.
The best solution really depends on the individual situation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just like you can run Plex off a RasPi or NAS but neither is actually a very good option to run a media server from due to the Transcoding power requirements that usually require far more power than a Pi or NAS can give you.
There are two schools of thought here....
One side wants something they can navigate and control their TV with (Lets call them the Navigators). They just want a device that will give them a better interface than their Smart TV has (Roku, GoogleTV, XBMC Etc...) or want something to make a dumb TV smart. CCast doesn't take that approach at all
The other side I'll call the ROUTERS or maybe the Remote Controllers (and I guess I am in this Group) are looking for LESS Navigation and more Mobile Device integration in the same way we have Smart Houses being controlled by our Mobile devices. I don't want to go through navigation of Menus just to see something on a particular display I would prefer to use the same controls for ALL devices and merely rout signals where I want them without having to SET UP the device I wish to display on.
Just like in a Smart House I can set the temp of one room while sitting in another I should be able to display things on a TV in another room from the same screen I am using to control the display in the room I'm in.
Essentially routing Media throughout my house the same way I do to Monitors in my production truck or TV Studio.
Imagine if I had to go to every monitor in my studio, Hit Menu, Select the app before I could get the signal I wanted on the Monitor. That seems to be what the Navigators want.
Me I don't ever want to have to change a thing on the Monitor just rout my signal to it and have it display it.
This is essentially what DIAL and the CCast is all about.
Asphyx said:
Yeah I guess some folks don't realize the limitations of this device and how in some cases Less is actually more!
The simplicity of how CCast works makes it much more versatile than Miracast or DLNA Dongles,
But something like XBMC or Plex frontends which requires saving files and a Database will never be one of those things it does well.
And that doesn't even address the Navigation issues. The whole point of CCast is to make a device you can display to (Like Miracast) while off loading Power, and Navigation to another device that is much easier to write code for but doesn't require tying up the device to display (Like Miracast) a very targeted solution to a very specific problem.
Just like you can run Plex off a RasPi or NAS but neither is actually a very good option to run a media server from due to the Transcoding power requirements that usually require far more power than a Pi or NAS can give you.
There are two schools of thought here....
One side wants something they can navigate and control their TV with (Lets call them the Navigators). They just want a device that will give them a better interface than their Smart TV has (Roku, GoogleTV, XBMC Etc...) or want something to make a dumb TV smart. CCast doesn't take that approach at all
The other side I'll call the ROUTERS or maybe the Remote Controllers (and I guess I am in this Group) are looking for LESS Navigation and more Mobile Device integration in the same way we have Smart Houses being controlled by our Mobile devices. I don't want to go through navigation of Menus just to see something on a particular display I would prefer to use the same controls for ALL devices and merely rout signals where I want them without having to SET UP the device I wish to display on.
Just like in a Smart House I can set the temp of one room while sitting in another I should be able to display things on a TV in another room from the same screen I am using to control the display in the room I'm in.
Essentially routing Media throughout my house the same way I do to Monitors in my production truck or TV Studio.
Imagine if I had to go to every monitor in my studio, Hit Menu, Select the app before I could get the signal I wanted on the Monitor. That seems to be what the Navigators want.
Me I don't ever want to have to change a thing on the Monitor just rout my signal to it and have it display it.
This is essentially what DIAL and the CCast is all about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep...I only see the CC as and 'end" device. To introduce feature creep would complicate and obscure its real value. API release and further app development will be all the enhancement it needs. Clear purpose market wise, solid community support=widespread success. Let the specialists do their thing.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
wideasleep1 said:
Yep...I only see the CC as and 'end" device. To introduce feature creep would complicate and obscure its real value. API release and further app development will be all the enhancement it needs. Clear purpose market wise, solid community support=widespread success. Let the specialists do their thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup!
For my usage, I don't need YAR (Yet Another Remote) - I already have a HTPC, but Chromecast's interface as an extension of apps I already use is much more convenient.
wideasleep1 said:
Yep...I only see the CC as and 'end" device. To introduce feature creep would complicate and obscure its real value. API release and further app development will be all the enhancement it needs. Clear purpose market wise, solid community support=widespread success. Let the specialists do their thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For years in broadcast we have used a sort of networked transmission called "The Switch" it was little more than a network router that you could send video to any TV network on "The Switch Network".
TVs are in my mind a destination for content and it doesn't really matter what kind of content it is (Music, Web, Video, Pics). CCast can turn a TV into a destination. Until TV Manfs get on board and see this is the best way to send digital signals all over the place (by Pushing instead of Pulling) the CCast will at least get the concept rolling until those Manufacturers catch up. I know for a fact Sony would LOVE to get rid of their Smart Interface department because it generates little to no revenue and is constantly having to keep up and upgrading TVs that were already bought and sold. In time whatever money they made off the TV will be spent supporting it's Smart interface to keep up with User Demand for apps when if they merely supported DIAL they wouldn't need any SMART interface at all!
Thats kind of where I hope CCast (and DIAL standard) is taking us!
bhiga said:
Yup!
For my usage, I don't need YAR (Yet Another Remote) - I already have a HTPC, but Chromecast's interface as an extension of apps I already use is much more convenient.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's funny how the first wireless remotes used light to control but were then abandoned for Radio devices which were then Abandoned for IR (Light again) only to be usurped again by Radio in the form of WiFi! LOL
As they say what goes around comes around! LOL
There isn't a universal remote that can be bought that would be as versatile as my Tablet or Phone is....
Turning my Chromecast into my XBMC machine is literally why I logged into XDA today. GOGOGO!!!!
I can't wait for that. I currently play everything off an HTPC but if I don't ever need to turn it on again, good.
Asphyx said:
It's funny how the first wireless remotes used light to control but were then abandoned for Radio devices which were then Abandoned for IR (Light again) only to be usurped again by Radio in the form of WiFi! LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed... I actually had a TV that used a sonic remote, I think it might've been Zenith.
When I printed graphics using my dot-matrix* printer, certain graphics would change the channel. It was freaky at first, and pretty funny afterward.
* Kids, look that one up or go to an automotive dealership that still uses carbon-copy forms.
Asphyx said:
There isn't a universal remote that can be bought that would be as versatile as my Tablet or Phone is....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
:good: Indeed! Harmony is close but not as slick as native control. Hard to get more native than building it into Google Play Services!
bhiga said:
Indeed... I actually had a TV that used a sonic remote, I think it might've been Zenith.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL Yes It was a Zenith....I remember My Uncle could change the channel by Whistling! Would drive my great Grandmother Nuts!

Google blocks Chromecast apps that let you stream your own videos

Google blocks Chromecast app that let you stream your own videos...
"Google hasn't provided a clear answer on whether Chromecast will eventually let users stream their own local videos and music to the TV screen. But if early updates for the $35 dongle are any indication, the company doesn't want third-party developers trying to deliver that functionality. The most recent Chromecast update has broken support for AllCast, an Android application that previously allowed users to stream their personal media to a TV. AllCast (also known as AirCast thanks to a trademark dispute) could play back files stored in a phone's gallery, Dropbox, or Google Drive. Developer Koushik Dutta accomplished the feat by reverse engineering the Chromecast's code. He'd released several betas of the app, even planning a release on Google Play, before Google's latest software update broke things — "intentionally" in Dutta's opinion."
Read more...
http://www.theverge.com/2013/8/25/4...chromecast-app-that-let-you-stream-own-videos
They blocked these two apps so far:
https://plus.google.com/110558071969009568835/posts/G3jF2JynLc2
https://plus.google.com/117916055521642810655/posts/23BrB267QHJ
Let Google know exactly how you feel about this issue. If you're not happy downgrade and comment on their official Chromecast app.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.chromecast.app&hl=en
xuser said:
They blocked these two apps so far:
https://plus.google.com/110558071969009568835/posts/G3jF2JynLc2
https://plus.google.com/117916055521642810655/posts/23BrB267QHJ
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those apps were never approved and on the app whitelist. ALL apps are blocked by default. Only approved apps will run on the Chromecast. What those apps were doing was reverse engineering the Chromecast and using a hack to get around it. Google fixed that hack.
New names for Chromecast:
iCast
Castrate
ClosedCast
CastOff
OutCast
Sucks that now only YouTube and Netflix are the only things that'll play. Enjoyed the ability to play local media.
xuser said:
New names for Chromecast:
iCast
Castrate
ClosedCast
CastOff
OutCast
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm calling mine Ebaycast.
I've got a Roku3 that does everything I need..
Very disappointing! I was at a friend's home and he was showing off mirroring his iclone through Apple tv. Was hoping Chromecast would top that.
Sent from my EVO using xda app-developers app
After getting Aircast and fling to work, I ordered 2 more Chromecast dongles. Just cancelled them.
Hopefully Google is just temp blocking until ready to officially supporti 3rd party apps. If not, back to Roku.
I don't know if anyone else noticed but casting a local video file from a chrome browser tab actually plays smoother now. But aircast provided the easiest way to cast a video file from an Android phone.
After getting Aircast and fling to work, I ordered 2 more Chromecast dongles. Just cancelled them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have no interest in buying another Chromecast until this gets sorted out either.
So everyone is disappointed that it doesn't do something they never said it would? A lot to do about nothing if you ask me.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
So everyone is disappointed that it doesn't do something they never said it would? A lot to do about nothing if you ask me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mostly because it was more useful when AllCast and Fling worked. Kind of back in the ballpark with Google TV now in that it doesn't do a lot (for me anyway). Nothing more, nothing less.
Disappointed
akellar said:
So everyone is disappointed that it doesn't do something they never said it would? A lot to do about nothing if you ask me.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd say we are disappointed because it appears Google is intent on heading off the kind of innovation and creativity that has made the Android platform so wonderful. Google should let developers do what they do best: reverse engineer, hack and create, to turn Chromecast into the most powerful and versatile device it can be. They should let people root the device, they should let people work around the limits.
The disappointment is more that this is a sign that Google is not interested in fostering a creative, innovative developer community for Android. The disappointment is more that Google seems so short sighted in thinking they need to lock everything down. I thought they knew that a large part of the appeal of the platform has always been how open it is.
akellar said:
So everyone is disappointed that it doesn't do something they never said it would? A lot to do about nothing if you ask me.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may never have been announced to be able to do it, but to most it was obvious that the device was capable of doing it and that with dev support a lot was possible. It is disappointing to see how restrictive Google is being in taking away support for a function that the chromecast can handle. That being said, there will always be a way to accomplish this, it is just a matter of how inconvenient Google is going to make it.
While Google is within their own rights to change parts of the software that was never intended to be used for 3rd party, it's a massive mistake for Google to do this just to kill off those 3rd party apps. There must be a good reason for it and Google should make a public announcement as to why. There's probably a good % of sales of Chromecast specifically because of the functionality AirCast gave. I was going to buy a ChromeCast only because of the functionality AirCast gave but without this, a ChromeCast is useless for me.
I won't be buying until this functionality is officially supported or Google provides an official API/support for 3rd party applications that do provide this functionality.
Such a shame as Google had some much promise behind this product but that seems to have disappeared.
Hey
Just discovered an app that streams local content to any dnla player - wiTV. It offers mostly russian online contant but.. It also offers streaming local content from all of your devices including apple pc and Android. It creates a dnla local server on mobile devices and you can launch local media playback and scroll through it on the mobile device plays well on my old asus oplay r3 and samsung tv
Have fun and screw u Google! I can't believe i paid $100 to buy junk
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
jamosjamos said:
I'd say we are disappointed because it appears Google is intent on heading off the kind of innovation and creativity that has made the Android platform so wonderful. Google should let developers do what they do best: reverse engineer, hack and create, to turn Chromecast into the most powerful and versatile device it can be. They should let people root the device, they should let people work around the limits.
The disappointment is more that this is a sign that Google is not interested in fostering a creative, innovative developer community for Android. The disappointment is more that Google seems so short sighted in thinking they need to lock everything down. I thought they knew that a large part of the appeal of the platform has always been how open it is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The SDK isn't final. And in this case the developer hacked around one of the most essential parts (the app whitelist). No offense, but I don't want Netflix, HBO, etc to pull their content off the Chromecast so Google can let hackers design apps to stream content from my phone in a non-standard way that was never intented. How about we all wait until the SDK is final before judging Google. All they did was fix a security hole in the device.
Techno79 said:
While Google is within their own rights to change parts of the software that was never intended to be used for 3rd party, it's a massive mistake for Google to do this just to kill off those 3rd party apps. There must be a good reason for it and Google should make a public announcement as to why. There's probably a good % of sales of Chromecast specifically because of the functionality AirCast gave. I was going to buy a ChromeCast only because of the functionality AirCast gave but without this, a ChromeCast is useless for me.
I won't be buying until this functionality is officially supported or Google provides an official API/support for 3rd party applications that do provide this functionality.
Such a shame as Google had some much promise behind this product but that seems to have disappeared.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree.
I purchased the ChromeCast only for the purpose of wireless playing movies from my laptop to my HDTV. I currently use a HDMI cable, but thought wireless would be ideal.
I never use Netflix.
I never use Utube.
I wasted $35 plus shipping, because google refuses to allow me to use the hardware I purchased the way I want to.
It just arrived a few days ago, and I can root it.
But I don't think rooting it will help.
It's just a paperweight now.
Maybe I can return it to Google for a full refund?
ddiehl said:
I'm calling mine Ebaycast.
I've got a Roku3 that does everything I need..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I just love DLNA support on my Roku3.
jamosjamos said:
I'd say we are disappointed because it appears Google is intent on heading off the kind of innovation and creativity that has made the Android platform so wonderful. Google should let developers do what they do best: reverse engineer, hack and create, to turn Chromecast into the most powerful and versatile device it can be. They should let people root the device, they should let people work around the limits.
The disappointment is more that this is a sign that Google is not interested in fostering a creative, innovative developer community for Android. The disappointment is more that Google seems so short sighted in thinking they need to lock everything down. I thought they knew that a large part of the appeal of the platform has always been how open it is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope you sent this as feedback, very well put. The corporate device manufacture, including Google has benefited from free private development. A lot of the features that come on devices today started with the devs witch in turn busted sales from their innovation and put android where it is today.
Sent from my EVO using xda app-developers app
I don't under stand what the problem was. I mean, I was just using AllCast to watch videos of my kids on the TV. I'm not willing to spend time to upload videos to YouTube just to do that (nevermind privacy concerns and the fact the world doesn't care about my kid doing backflips off the couch).
I already have an HTPC for media playback, there's only personal content on my phone.
This was probably disabled because it wasn't using the actual SDK and was more of a hack. Was neat while it lasted.

Now what for Chromecast

I am happy with the functionality of the Chromecast. Netflix, Play Music and YouTube function quite well. I liked briefly being able to play local media. But I can't help but wonder what will Google add to it. Roku has so many channels both official and private. Apple TV just added a couple more. Not very many but still many more then Google. Any thoughts on how Chromecast will mature.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium HD app
I think so many people are caught up in the idea of playing their local media, that they had forgot that this device can do so much more!
I am personally working on a couple of preview/proof-of-concept projects, within the guidelines that Google has given us, including having my Chromecast whitelisted. And they still work just fine, aka not blocked.
One is a game (with plans to develop quite a few games).
One is a home automation/security hub integration.
There is a lot of potential for this device. And even with an unfinished SDK, the current API allows for all of this still.
Consider this. The receiver app API is 100% compatible to JavaScript and HTML5. And so much can be developed on these platforms.
The problem I see is, we have SOOOOOO many more "consumers/users" roaming this device then we do developers. And when the proof-of-concept that the CC could playback local media emerged, everyone was FLING'n to that and didn't allow their minds to see outside that box (like the pun there?).
I for one am still extremely excited for this product. As a developer, I see it as a great tool that adds an outlet to my creativity which can be integrated with current relevant apps and web experiences, and future ones.
I truly hope that the rest of the community can see this "light at the end of the tunnel" as well. I'd hate to see the CC get such a bad rep just because an ability that was never promised in the first place, got, for all we know, temporarily disabled.
Unholyfire said:
I think so many people are caught up in the idea of playing their local media, that they had forgot that this device can do so much more!
I am personally working on a couple of preview/proof-of-concept projects, within the guidelines that Google has given us, including having my Chromecast whitelisted. And they still work just fine, aka not blocked.
One is a game (with plans to develop quite a few games).
One is a home automation/security hub integration.
There is a lot of potential for this device. And even with an unfinished SDK, the current API allows for all of this still.
Consider this. The receiver app API is 100% compatible to JavaScript and HTML5. And so much can be developed on these platforms.
The problem I see is, we have SOOOOOO many more "consumers/users" roaming this device then we do developers. And when the proof-of-concept that the CC could playback local media emerged, everyone was FLING'n to that and didn't allow their minds to see outside that box (like the pun there?).
I for one am still extremely excited for this product. As a developer, I see it as a great tool that adds an outlet to my creativity which can be integrated with current relevant apps and web experiences, and future ones.
I truly hope that the rest of the community can see this "light at the end of the tunnel" as well. I'd hate to see the CC get such a bad rep just because an ability that was never promised in the first place, got, for all we know, temporarily disabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for this post. We finally get one of the few adult posts around here. I'm very interested in what you have planned so far.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 4
Unholyfire said:
I think so many people are caught up in the idea of playing their local media, that they had forgot that this device can do so much more!
I am personally working on a couple of preview/proof-of-concept projects, within the guidelines that Google has given us, including having my Chromecast whitelisted. And they still work just fine, aka not blocked.
One is a game (with plans to develop quite a few games).
One is a home automation/security hub integration.
There is a lot of potential for this device. And even with an unfinished SDK, the current API allows for all of this still.
Consider this. The receiver app API is 100% compatible to JavaScript and HTML5. And so much can be developed on these platforms.
The problem I see is, we have SOOOOOO many more "consumers/users" roaming this device then we do developers. And when the proof-of-concept that the CC could playback local media emerged, everyone was FLING'n to that and didn't allow their minds to see outside that box (like the pun there?).
I for one am still extremely excited for this product. As a developer, I see it as a great tool that adds an outlet to my creativity which can be integrated with current relevant apps and web experiences, and future ones.
I truly hope that the rest of the community can see this "light at the end of the tunnel" as well. I'd hate to see the CC get such a bad rep just because an ability that was never promised in the first place, got, for all we know, temporarily disabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I look forward to the gaming part as from what I understand there is a lag between the input and display on the tv. And for gaming lag is an absolute no-no.
Unholyfire said:
I think so many people are caught up in the idea of playing their local media, that they had forgot that this device can do so much more!
I am personally working on a couple of preview/proof-of-concept projects, within the guidelines that Google has given us, including having my Chromecast whitelisted. And they still work just fine, aka not blocked.
One is a game (with plans to develop quite a few games).
One is a home automation/security hub integration.
There is a lot of potential for this device. And even with an unfinished SDK, the current API allows for all of this still.
Consider this. The receiver app API is 100% compatible to JavaScript and HTML5. And so much can be developed on these platforms.
The problem I see is, we have SOOOOOO many more "consumers/users" roaming this device then we do developers. And when the proof-of-concept that the CC could playback local media emerged, everyone was FLING'n to that and didn't allow their minds to see outside that box (like the pun there?).
I for one am still extremely excited for this product. As a developer, I see it as a great tool that adds an outlet to my creativity which can be integrated with current relevant apps and web experiences, and future ones.
I truly hope that the rest of the community can see this "light at the end of the tunnel" as well. I'd hate to see the CC get such a bad rep just because an ability that was never promised in the first place, got, for all we know, temporarily disabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The thing with local media streaming is that it should have been included from the start and is one of the most common and basic needs for Android users. We all have these really nice smartphones with incredible cameras and want a very easy way to push pictures or video we have taken to our big screens for reviewing as a group. I have no doubt it will come once the SDK is out of beta and it's really too bad that we all had access to AirCast because it provided a key functionality then Google took it away. Yes, it should never had happened and I understand why they had to block the hack but they also had to realize it was going to upset a lot of people. I just don't get why they didn't provide this functionality from the start, it's just such a natural solution for Android to share pictures on a big screen....
verysmartncool said:
I look forward to the gaming part as from what I understand there is a lag between the input and display on the tv. And for gaming lag is an absolute no-no.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since my proof-of-concept game does not require millisecond latency for control interface from the player to the screen, this is not an issue. Also, the lag that is present appears to be less than a second thus far anyway.
rkirmeier said:
The thing with local media streaming is that it should have been included from the start and is one of the most common and basic needs for Android users. We all have these really nice smartphones with incredible cameras and want a very easy way to push pictures or video we have taken to our big screens for reviewing as a group. I have no doubt it will come once the SDK is out of beta and it's really too bad that we all had access to AirCast because it provided a key functionality then Google took it away. Yes, it should never had happened and I understand why they had to block the hack but they also had to realize it was going to upset a lot of people. I just don't get why they didn't provide this functionality from the start, it's just such a natural solution for Android to share pictures on a big screen....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure why it should have been included. It was never advertised as having that functionality. The Chromecast website states...
The easiest way to enjoy online video and music on your TV.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will be great once the SDK is officially released and developers can release an app for that... but it was and is sold as a solution for online video.
I am hopeful people can bring a variety of things to the Chromecast. I can stream my local files to the roku quite easily. And actually I have a slimport and a push2tv. So it is easy. I can already use the roku for angry birds. Not sure whether latency is an issue. It is true that Google did not advertise that it could play local files but they are smart enough to know that customers would want to. If they are worried about upsetting the Cable companies, etc. We have plenty of ways to stream content from our Android devices to the television. I. Can play a local file on the computer using a chrome browser. Granted it looks terrible but it works.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 4

Chromecast apps besides netflix, youtube,play music,

Why cant mobile tab cast yet? I hardly ever usemky clunky laptop. Inprefer not to.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using xda app-developers app
Because?
It's in beta, what do you expect?
jpirog said:
Because?
It's in beta, what do you expect?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know what, my check that paid for my Chromecast was in Beta. Sorry if it doesn't work!
aiiee said:
You know what, my check that paid for my Chromecast was in Beta. Sorry if it doesn't work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, I didn't realize people were so ignorant about beta products / early adopters.
If you don't want to be a guinea pig, don't buy a first gen product.
jpirog said:
Wow, I didn't realize people were so ignorant about beta products / early adopters.
If you don't want to be a guinea pig, don't buy a first gen product.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aiiee said:
You know what, my check that paid for my Chromecast was in Beta. Sorry if it doesn't work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol, I actually thought his comment was funny and should be taken less seriously. "Lighten up Francis".
Personally, I don't mind $35 for this device in its current state, but I can understand others' frustration. It's not free like many beta programs AND it's intentionally crippled (I understand why, not that I fully agree, but that's just my opinion).
YouTube... eh...
Netflix... seems like everything I like isn't available on streaming
Google Music... inefficient; other easier, simpler ways to play music on speakers, lol.
Personal movie collection and family videos... would be nice... patiently waiting...
My chromecast is on its way. My living room is already a media paradise though. Ps3 and Xbox and bluray player can all stream personal videos and downloads and Netflix. Being in Canada it cost me like $75 when all was said and done to get my chromecast which is way less functional than anything I already have. I can stream any music I want through my surround sound from my nexus 7 or 4 even my chromebook or PC with Bluetooth. And of all that fails for some reason the HDMI cable coming from my PC can do all of that media stuff very efficiently. So why did I spend all that money on a chromecast, well I don't know. But I can't wait to find out what this thing will be able to do eventually after the nerds get SDK accessibility. The future is bright my friends. Let's just hope its not a flop like Google TV. But I think they learned a valuable lesson there.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4
I too am looking forward to when it can do more. Wonder what challenges they are facing to get the SDK finalized etc.
For someone living in a smaller space like myself its great to have the combo of all access and the ability to control your music in the living room from the bed room. The best part about this over google tv...this was only $35, minimal investment.
jpirog said:
Wow, I didn't realize people were so ignorant about beta products / early adopters.
If you don't want to be a guinea pig, don't buy a first gen product.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amen.
I feel the real issue isn't that it's beta/1st gen, we aren't talking about "bugs" here. The issue is this, if the SDK is still in beta, and we can't know its capabilities until that's done, then don't issue an "update" breaking it's current capabilities. Everyone was happy with what it could do while the SDK was still in beta, but then they "updated" it to remove nearly all of its functionality, while still not providing the final SDK and capabilities. This is akin to buying a 1st gen car, then the dealer says "we are going to release new ECU software that will change the way is works soon, but for now, we are going to make it only go 15MPH until we can release that software.
SalTNutz said:
I feel the real issue isn't that it's beta/1st gen, we aren't talking about "bugs" here. The issue is this, if the SDK is still in beta, and we can't know its capabilities until that's done, then don't issue an "update" breaking it's current capabilities. Everyone was happy with what it could do while the SDK was still in beta, but then they "updated" it to remove nearly all of its functionality, while still not providing the final SDK and capabilities. This is akin to buying a 1st gen car, then the dealer says "we are going to release new ECU software that will change the way is works soon, but for now, we are going to make it only go 15MPH until we can release that software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google is trying to get more media providers to sign on. No one wants to sign on for a payed service on a "hackable" device. I don't see this device being "open" for a while yet, but with the popularity of the device we can only hope media providers sign on and add content and functionality to the device the right way before it gets all hacked up and no companies want to touch it
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4
Cuzz1369 said:
Google is trying to get more media providers to sign on. No one wants to sign on for a payed service on a "hackable" device. I don't see this device being "open" for a while yet, but with the popularity of the device we can only hope media providers sign on and add content and functionality to the device the right way before it gets all hacked up and no companies want to touch it
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't make sense to me.
The Chromecast simply receives the command from your device of PC to play whatever you have access to from that said device. It's not like having the Chromecast will allow you to watch fee Netflix. Many companies have already said that Chromecast support is in the world.
RojasTKD said:
Didn't make sense to me.
The Chromecast simply receives the command from your device of PC to play whatever you have access to from that said device. It's not like having the Chromecast will allow you to watch fee Netflix. Many companies have already said that Chromecast support is in the world.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Living in Canada it is very easy to get american Netflix on my PC yet it is blocked on my chromecast.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 4
TabGuy said:
Amen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was a joke, you speedbumps.

Is it me or.....

..... Are there way to many local media casting apps?
It seems another one pops up every few days.
I am all for a free market but, c'mon, let's get some originality!
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
Nothing wrong with it, in my opinion. One of them might come up as the ultimate Chromecast app. So far for me, top stop is reserved for BubbleUPnP, but I would change in the heartbeat if something better comes out (tough ask).
abuttino said:
..... Are there way to many local media casting apps?
It seems another one pops up every few days.
I am all for a free market but, c'mon, let's get some originality!
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was about to post the same thing. So far it has been very redundant and underwhelming. We need mirroring ASAP. And I'm still waiting for that app that makes me say, "Wow, I never thought of using the chromecast that way!"
Don't get me wrong, I love my chromecast. Best bang for the buck in the history of computers/electronics. I'm just spoiled. LOL!
I've never been opposed to choice. In fact it's why I own Android products and not an iPhone.
Sent from my Nexus 7 (2013) using xda-developers app
I stated that in my post. I am all for free market.
I would just hope that someone can think of something better than all these local media streamers.
Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk
abuttino said:
..... Are there way to many local media casting apps?
It seems another one pops up every few days.
I am all for a free market but, c'mon, let's get some originality!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it's just a matter of those apps being the most logical early adopters for CCast support cause once one media player supports CCast the rest have to make sure to follow or lose marketshare.
And I wouldn't discount Google and the Whitelisting for reasons why we aren't seeing more innovative Apps for the CCast.
Players are pretty straight forward and other Apps are probably getting a bit more scrutiny from Google before getting approved for Whitelisting since those operations actually require a more complex code on the CCast side than the Local Player apps do.
The only thing that I'm disappointed in is the fact that none of the Local Stream Devs are doing much to expand the capabilities of the player on the CCast side. Bubble has probably done the most with it's subtitle support, and Plex's latest release has added a ton of features including Music Photo and some Eye Candy during navigation.
The Most popular Android player apps were popular due to the extra container and codec support they had but unless they can add that support to the CCast side player (difficult I know) their supporting CCast really isn't going to help them retain Market.
As for Mirroring you probably have two forces at play holding it up.
First the Operating System support has to be there which means only devices with 4.2.x or higher will likely be able to run it,
and Second would be the security issues (@bhiga mentioned early on) that could be triggered by some malware that could trigger your unit to mirror to someone else and violate privacy.
Even if someone finds a way to do Mirroring well I would expect Google to go over it with a fine tooth comb before they whitelisted it and lets be honest they may NEVER allow 3rd party Mirroring Apps and prefer to control that function all on their own. Perhaps as part of future versions of Android which currently the SDK seems to have the code for it but is not being used by anyone at the moment.

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