Chromecast testing interrupted

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to spend more time with Chromecast. Specifically, Chromecast with Google TV. I like the overall interface. I like their Live TV section. I was planning to write next about another feature that a family member really likes, but some problems got in the way.

I started with my Chromecast HD device, but purchased one of the new 4K models. Last Monday, the new Chromecast arrived, and I swapped it out with the older device. That was a mistake.

Well, maybe it wasn't, but that is what started the problems. The new Chromecast 4K was not as responsive as the older Chromecast HD. Also, the remote would repeat arrow presses. Specifically, I would be on the menu, say in the YouTube app, and pressing the right arrow would sometimes keep scrolling to the right, as if I was continuing to press the right arrow. Same thing on the down arrow.

This wasn't a YouTube thing, as it happened when using Hulu, ESPN, Plex, and even on the actual Google TV interface. It wasn't the app. It was the device. Maybe the remote, but that was part of the device.

Last night, I was finally fed up with it and started a return. I don't really want my money back. Rather, I want to exchange it for another one. I want a Chromecast 4K. At least I think I do. When I upgraded to Chromecast with Google TV from the older Chromecast (the one that was for casting only with no remote) I liked the device. Later, I obtained one of the newer and lower priced HD models. That was what I had put, and left, on my primary TV.

After deciding to spend more time with Chromecast, I ordered the new Chromecast with Google TV 4K. That arrived last Monday, and I switched my testing to that. And that's when the trouble started.

So, I wanted to exchange it, but that's not an option. So, they've issued a return, and I'll be shipping it back today. I expect they'll refund the money, but I'm just going to turn around and buy another one. Whatever it takes, I suppose. I want one of the newer ones.

In the meantime, I've put the HD model back on my living room TV. My Streaming Life will still focus on Chromecast Google TV for the next month. I just want the new device to work right.