Google is currently facing backlash from users of its second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio devices due to what has been termed the "Untrusted device" error. This issue arose over the weekend of March 8-9, 2025, rendering many of these devices unable to cast video and audio content as intended. Users have expressed frustration as they are met with error messages indicating their devices cannot be verified, and various online forums, particularly Reddit, are flooded with complaints.
On March 12, 2025, Google addressed the issue by sending out emails to affected users, acknowledging the problem and assuring them of efforts to rectify it as soon as possible. The email read, "We apologize for the issue and understand your frustration. We are working to roll out a fix as soon as possible and will share updates and guidance on the Nest Community page." This response, albeit timely, has not quelled the tide of user dissatisfaction.
According to Google, the root cause of the issue appears to stem from the expiration of a certificate authority (CA) for the affected devices, which is believed to have occurred on March 9, 2025. Information sourced from both Reddit users and industry analysts suggest this expired CA is preventing the devices from being recognized as legitimate by the Google services they connect with.
Interestingly, this error has only affected the older second-generation models, with users of later generations such as the Chromecast (3rd gen) and Chromecast Ultra reporting no problems. This disparity has led to speculation among users about whether Google is intentionally ending support for the nearly decade-old devices.
One knowledgeable Reddit user noted, "It's most definitely due to the certificate baked inside the Chromecast having expired," indicating the core of the issue rather than potential user error. While users eagerly await confirmation of the fix, many have resorted to potential workarounds, including changing their device's date settings to before March 9 to bypass the error when attempting to reconnect.
On March 11, Google issued another update, stating they had identified the cause of the problem, offering both clarity and frustration for users still unable to cast content. The Nest Community has recommended avoiding factory resets on the devices, warning it may exacerbate the problem and lead to more prolonged outages.
Speculations on when the issue will be resolved vary widely, with some experts like Tom Hebb, a former software engineer, estimating it could take weeks or even months before Google rolls out a reliable fix. "It may take more than a month to prepare," Hebb suggested, pointing to the inherent complexity of troubleshooting certificate-related issues on legacy devices.
Despite these setbacks, Google's acknowledgment of the issue and their promise to provide updates seems to resonate with users who feel increasingly sidelined as newer technologies take precedence. Users are demanding prompt communication from Google about the exact steps they will take moving forward to resolve the current outrage over the malfunctioning devices.
While Google has yet to provide specific timelines for when the fix will be released, the option of unofficial workarounds has become increasingly popular among the affected user base. The idea of backdating device settings or enabling certain hidden options have been floated as temporary solutions, but skepticism persists about their effectiveness.
While waiting for major updates from Google, many users continue to voice their grievances on social media platforms, sharing frustration about how much they rely on their devices for streaming entertainment. The unresolved issue around the second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio not only impacts these individual users but reflects broader concerns about the longevity and support of older technology.
For now, Google's customer support has indicated they are aware of the situation, and users are encouraged to maintain communication through their Nest Community forums for real-time updates as the issue evolves. The commitment to addressing the matter, albeit imperfectly, highlights Google’s obligations toward its customer base.
User expectations remain high as they await resolution, longing to return to utilizing their beloved streaming devices without interruption. The anticipation for the forthcoming fixes symbolizes the challenges of maintaining older technology and the complications involved when support is diminished, leaving loyal users on the brink of obsolescence.