Google replaced the Chromecast line with the Google TV Streamer: a set-top box with 32 GB of storage, Ethernet, and a Thread radio for smart-home gear. Setup runs through the Google Home app and takes about fifteen minutes.

What you'll need

  • A phone with the Google Home app installed
  • A Google account
  • Your Wi-Fi name and password (or an Ethernet cable)
  • An HDMI cable and a free HDMI port

The steps

  1. Connect the box

    Plug the streamer into your TV's HDMI port and connect power. If you have Ethernet nearby, plug it in now — the box prefers wired when available.

  2. Switch inputs and wake the remote

    Set the TV to the right HDMI input. Pull the battery tab on the voice remote; it pairs automatically and can be set to control TV power and volume in a later step.

  3. Open the Google Home app

    The TV shows a QR code and a prompt. On your phone, open Google Home, tap the plus icon, then 'Set up device' > 'New device', and scan the code or pick the streamer from the list.

  4. Sign in and choose Wi-Fi

    Confirm your Google account, pick your Wi-Fi network (skipped if wired), and choose which room the device lives in.

  5. Pick your streaming services

    Google Home asks which apps you subscribe to so recommendations match what you actually watch. Select them now; installs happen automatically.

  6. Set up TV and volume control

    In Settings > Remotes & accessories > Set up remote buttons, teach the remote your TV brand so power and volume work from one remote.

  7. Check the picture settings

    Go to Settings > Display & Sound. Leave resolution on automatic, and match content dynamic range if your TV handles Dolby Vision and HDR10+ well.

Worth knowing

  • The remote has a find-my-remote chime: press the button on the back of the streamer and the remote rings.
  • Add a second Google account in Settings if two people in the house want separate recommendations.
  • Ambient mode pulls your Google Photos albums — pick them during setup rather than later.

Common mistakes

  • Skipping the TV-control setup, then juggling two remotes forever.
  • Using a USB port on the TV that can't supply steady power; use the wall adapter.
  • Expecting Chromecast-style setup through Chrome — the streamer sets up through the Google Home app.

For account-specific or warranty issues, go straight to Google's official Google TV help. FoxStream publishes guides and is not an official support channel for Google TV.

Research basis: Google TV Streamer (4K), Android TV OS 14. Steps checked against current manufacturer documentation as of the last-updated date above.