Users of Chromecast 2nd generation and Chromecast Audio devices are facing significant connectivity issues since March 9, 2025. With millions of users reporting outages, the problem has raised concerns over the future of these popular devices.
The widespread outage primarily affects Chromecast devices introduced back in 2015, which ceased production back in 2019. Many users encounter error messages stating the device is "untrusted" or has "not been verified,” effectively rendering their devices useless. This situation has left users unable to cast content or use various streaming applications, such as Netflix, Google Home, and others.
According to several reports across multiple platforms, including Reddit, the issue appears to stem from the expiration of SSL security certificates, which are supposed to authenticate connections between devices and Google's servers. Affected users have taken to social media to express their frustrations, sharing messages like, "Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This could be caused by outdated device firmware.”
Despite the overwhelming noise from users across the globe, including individuals from Bolivia, Germany, Mexico, and the Netherlands, Google has yet to make any official announcement concerning the outage. The lack of communication has sparked speculation about whether this issue might be indicative of planned obsolescence, much like previous instances where Google ceased support for its older generation devices.
Experts and users familiar with the situation have suggested the problems are due to negligent oversight on Google's part. It seems the SSL certificate expiration happened without timely renewal, causing devices to lose their ability to connect securely. "Google is aware of the problem and working hard to fix it,” stated representatives from Google support, trying to assure users this isn't the end for their devices.
Users have reported different attempts to fix the issues, including factory resets; unfortunately, those efforts have been met with failure. Notably, Google has advised against any resetting of devices, indicating it could complicate future fixes. For those who have already reset their devices, some have found temporary success by changing the date on the configuring phone to before March 9, allowing them to reconnect to Wi-Fi, though streaming functions remain impaired.
Despite the turmoil, many hope for a swift resolution as Google works on deploying software updates to rectify the SSL certificate issue. The situation remains fluid, but the outage highlights significant concerns around product support and longevity. With millions reliant on these devices for entertainment and connectivity, users are right to demand clarity and quick remediation from Google.
For the moment, as users await official communication from Google, they are left contemplating alternatives, including the recently launched Google TV Streamer or other devices such as Amazon's Fire TV Stick.