Update 1: Videostream for Google Cast is now named as Videostream for Google cast following Google's naming convention changes. Google now refers software as Google cast, and hardware as Chromecast. We don't think it's necessary to update the page for such a name change.

To stream local videos to Chromecast seamlessly, you can rely on another simple method using a Chrome extension: Videostream for Google Cast. This method complements other three methods of streaming local media to Chromecast: Chrome browser tab casting, desktop sharing, and using Plex media server (and a web app).

Advantages of Using Videostream Extension

The Videostream extension offers several advantages when it comes to streaming local media files to Chromecast:

  • Simple to set up and use, compared to using the Plex media server.
  • Supports more video formats with some sort of trans-coding, compared to Chrome browser tab casting.
  • Very reliable and stable, compared to desktop sharing.
  • Remote control for Android (currently free).
  • Works just like a local media player with output to TV (Chromecast)!

Limitations of Using Videostream Extension

There are some limitations of using the Videostream extension to stream local media files to Chromecast:

  • Free to use, but not all features are available. Some features require a subscription.
  • No support for photos or pictures. Videostream extension is primarily designed for videos (and audios).
  • No remote control for iOS at the time of writing this page.

Step-by-Step Guide on Using Videostream Extension

Videostream extension for Google Cast is very simple to set up, just like any other Chrome extensions. You need to install the Google Cast extension as well.

Step 1: Install Videostream Chrome Extension

To start, go to the Chrome web store and search for Videostream in the web store. Click the "FREE" button to add the extension to your Chrome browser. You will receive a confirmation message telling you what permissions the Videostream extension requires. To install this Chrome extension, click "Add."

Step 2: Using Videostream Chrome Extension

After installation, you can use Videostream to stream local media for Chromecast immediately. No setup is required (although there is a setup icon). Once you finish the installation, the Videostream extension starts automatically. Click the "Select a movie to play" button.

This will open your file explorer, where you can navigate to the directory and select the files to be played and click "Open." Once you select the file, the Videostream extension will start searching for Chromecast devices in your home network. If a Chromecast device is found, the Google Cast extension should pop out a window for you to select the device.

Step 3: Some Advanced Features of Videostream Chrome Extension

The Videostream extension offers some advanced features:

  • Premium subscription allows playlist support, beta features, and ad-free experience (not intrusive, just an Amazon affiliate link).
  • Use your Android phone as remote control for the casting. They released the app in the Play Store: Videostream Chromecast: Remote. It is simple and functional without bells and whistles.

How to Launch Videostream for Google Cast After Initial Installation?

After initial installation, you can launch Videostream for Google Cast in three different methods:

  • From Chrome apps page (chrome://apps)
  • Using a desktop shortcut for Videostream app
  • From bookmarks bar

Please refer to this guide for details on how to launch Videostream for Google Cast app (and other Chrome apps as well).

Do You Have Any Problems or Questions?

If you have any questions or encounter any problems, please let us know in the comment box below.

For more Chromecast tutorials, check our Chromecast how-to guide page. For Chromecast Audio guides, visit our Chromecast Audio guide page. Happy casting!