If you own a Xiaomi TV (Mi series) TV 4/5, A Pro, P1, Q2 And more recently, you've probably noticed that you've got a Chromecast built in, but what is it in practice? Why do some features work differently than on an external Google Chromecast device, and how do you make your phone or laptop stream work without delay? In this article, we will understand how Chromecast technology is integrated into Xiaomi firmware TV, How it differs from the original Google solution, and give step-by-step instructions for setting up - from basic activation to solving typical problems.
Letโs clarify the key point right away: Xiaomi TVs do not have a physical Chromecast module โ this is a software implementation of the Google Cast protocol built into the Android operating system. TV This means that the functionality may differ from the external Chromecast Ultra or Chromecast with Google. TV, But the basic features -- video, music and screen -- are available, and the main advantage is that you don't have to buy a separate device, you just have to turn it on in the settings.
What is Chromecast and how does it work on Xiaomi TVs?
Chromecast is a technology that wirelessly streams content from mobile devices or computers to the big screen developed by Google, and in its classic version, it is implemented through a separate device connected to the big screen. HDMI-But Xiaomi, like some other manufacturers like Sony or Philips, have integrated Google Cast support directly into the firmware of their TVs:
- ๐ฑ Broadcast videos from YouTube, Netflix, Kinopoisk and other services directly from your phone to TV without wires.
- ๐ต Play music from Spotify, Yandex Music or local files with high sound quality.
- ๐ฅ๏ธ Duplicate the screen of a smartphone or laptop (Mirroring function) to show presentations, games or photos.
- ๐ฎ Play mobile games on a large screen with minimal latency (with good Wi-Fi).
It is important to understand that the built-in Chromecast in Xiaomi TV โ It's a simplified version of the original technology, and it doesn't support all the functions of an external device (like Google Stadia or some games), but it's enough for most tasks. Xiaomi has also added its own features, such as integration with Mi Home (for smart home management) and optimization for Chinese services (for example, iQiyi or Youku, which may not be available in Russia).
The difference between the built-in Chromecast in Xiaomi and the external device Google
Many users expect the built-in Chromecast in Xiaomi TV It will work just like Google Chromecast 3 or Chromecast with Google. TV. However, in practice, there are several key differences that should be considered:
| Function | External Chromecast (Google) | Built-in to Xiaomi TV |
|---|---|---|
| Support for services | All official apps with support for Google Cast (Netflix, Disney)+, HBO Max and others.) | Restrictions due to regional blockages (e.g, HBO Max may not work in Russia) |
| Firmware updates | Automatic updates from Google | Depends on Xiaomi updates (sometimes delayed) |
| Quality of broadcasting | Support 4K HDR Dolby Vision (in new models) | Limited by the hardware capabilities of the TV (e.g. Mi) TV 4S supportive 4K) |
| Voice control | Full support for Google Assistant | It works only through XiaoAI (Chinese assistant) or Alice (in Russian firmware) |
Another important difference is performance: the external Chromecast has its own processor and memory, whereas the built-in version uses the resources of the TV, which means that with weak hardware (for example, in Mi). TV 4A) Lags may occur when broadcasting heavy content (such as games or video games). 4K-On the other hand, in new models (e.g. Xiaomi). TV Q2 75) performance problems are usually not.
โ ๏ธ Note: If you are using Xiaomi TV With Chinese firmware (e.g., purchased on AliExpress), the built-in Chromecast may not work as well due to restrictions on Google Services in China, in which case it is recommended to flash the TV to a global or Russian version of the software.
How to turn on and configure Chromecast on your Xiaomi TV
Activation of the built-in Chromecast on Xiaomi TV It takes less than a minute, but there are a few nuances that depend on the model and the firmware version:
- Connect your TV and phone to the same Wi-Fi network, and that's a must-have -- the Chromecast doesn't work over the mobile Internet or over different networks.
- On the Xiaomi remote, press the Settings button and go to Settings. โ Connections and sharing โ Google Cast (or Wireless Broadcast in Older Versions).
- Activate the switch Turn on Google Cast. TV should appear in the list of available devices for broadcast on your smartphone.
- On your phone, open an app that supports Google Cast (like YouTube), click on the stream icon (usually in the upper right corner) and select your Xiaomi. TV.
If the TV doesnโt appear in the list of devices, try the following:
Restart the TV and phone|Check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network|Update the TV firmware|Shut down. VPN phone-on|Reset network settings on TV (Settings) โ Network โ Reset)
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On some models (e.g., Mi) TV P1) You may need to add a new setup to the developer menu:
- Go to Settings. โ On TV.
- Click on the Version several times MIUI TV, Until the message comes out, you become a developer.
- Return to the main settings menu and open the developer settings โ Network debugging.
- Turn on the option to Enable Wireless Debugging (this can help with connection issues).
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If the broadcast is constantly interrupted, try connecting your phone and TV to Wi-Fi at 5GHz โ this reduces latency and improves stability.
What apps support Chromecast on Xiaomi TV
Built-in Chromecast in Xiaomi TV It's compatible with most popular services, but there's a nuance. Here's a list of apps that are guaranteed to work:
- ๐ฌ Video: YouTube, Netflix, Kinopoisk HD, IVI, Okko, Amediateka, Wink, Megogo.
- ๐ต Music: Spotify, Yandex Music, Apple Music (via browser), VK Music, SoundCloud.
- ๐ฑ Screen broadcast: Built-in Mirroring feature in Android (starting with version) 5.0) Windows 10/11 (via Connect app).
- ๐ฎ Games: NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming (via browser), Steam Link.
But there are limitations.
- ๐ซ Disney+ It may not work due to regional blockages (decided by the VPN TV-wise).
- ๐ซ Some Chinese services (e.g. iQiyi) require an account with a Chinese phone number.
- ๐ซ Ambient Mode (Stop Photos) feature available on the external Chromecast in Xiaomi TV absent.
If the app you want doesn't support Google Cast, you can use a workaround, which is a screen broadcast.
- On Android-smartphone open Settings โ Connected devices โ Screen broadcasting.
- On iPhone, use Screen Mirroring in Control Point.
- On Windows, press Win. + K and choose your Xiaomi TV.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Mirroring consumes significantly more resources than live streaming via Chromecast, and if you have weak Wi-Fi or an old phone, you may experience audio and video delays. In this case, it is better to download the app directly to the TV via Google Play (if it is supported).
Typical Chromecast issues on Xiaomi TV and their solutions
Even after setting up the Chromecast on Xiaomi correctly TV There are some mistakes that can happen. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The TV is not displayed in the list of devices | Different Wi-Fi networks, Google Cast disabled, outdated firmware | Check the network, update the TV, reboot both devices |
| Video lagging or slowing down | Weak Wi-Fi, overloaded TV processor, high-resolution content | Switch to 5GHz, reduce video quality, close background apps |
| No sound when broadcasting | The phone turned off the sound for Chromecast, problems with the HDMI-port | Check the volume on TV, reconnect the cable (if used), reset the sound settings |
| The app does not support Cast | Regional restrictions, outdated version of the application | Use it. VPN, Update the app, try the screen broadcast |
If nothing helps, try resetting your Chromecast settings on your TV:
- Go to Settings โ Applications โ System applications.
- Find Google Cast Receiver (or Wireless Broadcast).
- Click Stop, then Clear the cache and Reset the settings.
- Reboot the TV.
For PatchWall models (e.g. Mi) TV 5 Pro) may require additional configuration through Developer Settings:
How to Enable Chromecast Debugging on PatchWall
Chromecast comparison in different models of Xiaomi TVs
Chromecast functionality may vary greatly depending on Xiaomi model TV. Here's a quick comparison:
| Model | Chromecast support | Max, permission. | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi TV 4A/4S | There's (simplified version) | Full HD (1080p) | Frequent lags during broadcasting 4K, No Dolby Vision |
| Mi TV 5 / 5 Pro | Full support | 4K HDR | Stable work, support for Google Assistant (in global firmware) |
| Mi TV Q1 / Q2 | Full support + ALLM | 4K @ 120Hz | Minimum delays optimized for gaming |
| Mi TV P1 | Full support | 4K Dolby Vision | Best sound quality (Dolby Atmos), stable Chromecast |
| Mi TV A Pro | Yes, but with limitations. | 4K | There may be problems with Chinese services in Russian firmware |
If you are planning to use Chromecast for games or 4K-It is better to choose the Q-series or P1 โ They have a more powerful processor and are better optimized for broadcasting, and for basic use (like watching YouTube or Netflix), Mi will do. TV 4S, But be prepared for occasional lags.
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On new models (2023-2026) Chromecast is more stable thanks to the updated chipset MediaTek MT9638 or amlogic T972, Which are better at decoding streaming video.
Chromecast Alternatives for Xiaomi TVs
If the built-in Chromecast is unstable or doesnโt support the features you need, you can consider alternative ways to stream content to Xiaomi. TV:
- ๐ Miracast/Wi-Fi Direct: Built-in wireless technology that doesn't require internet.Works for all Xiaomi TV, It may be less stable than Chromecast.
- ๐ฆ External Chromecast: Connecting the original Google Chromecast device to HDMI-This will give full support to all functions, but it will require additional costs.
- ๐ฅ๏ธ DLNA/UPnP: Protocols for broadcasting media files from a PC or NAS. Supported by the majority of Xiaomi TV through the Media Player app.
- ๐ฎ Steam Link/Moonlight: For streaming PC games, requires customization but provides minimal delays.
- ๐ Browser solutions: Some services (e.g. Plex or Jellyfin) allow you to stream content via a web interface.
If you don't like the quality of the Chromecast, try Miracast.
- On TV: Settings โ Connections and sharing โ Miracast.
- On the phone: Settings โ Screen. โ Wireless display (on Android) or Screen Mirroring (on iPhone).
- Choose your Xiaomi TV list.
Miracastโs main difference from Chromecast is that it streams the screen live, not through the cloud.
- โ No Internet dependency (works via Wi-Fi Direct).
- โ Less latency when playing games or video.
- โ Higher load on the phone (the battery can quickly go down).
- โ Not all apps support sound when broadcasting.