Google's Chromecast app is now called Google Cast. The rebranding is part of a bid to reflect how the technology works across different devices.
Adam Champy, product manager at Google, announced the rebranding in a post on the Chrome Blog, alongside the introduction of the VIZIO P-Series.
"We're also changing the name of the Chromecast app to Google Cast app, to better reflect that Google Cast technology is now supported across a wide range of devices such as Chromecast, TVs, displays and speakers. The Google Cast app makes it easy for you to discover great stuff to watch, find more apps, customize backdrop, and more," says Champy.
The Chromecast dongle is available at about $35 and the Chromecast app is used for controlling media streaming via the dongle. The device allows streaming of multimedia from mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to big TV screens.
"Chromecast is a media streaming device that plugs into the HDMI port on your TV. Simply use your mobile device and the TV you already own to cast your favorite TV shows, movies, music, sports, games and more. Chromecast works with iPhone®, iPad®, Android phone and tablet, Mac® and Windows® laptop, and Chromebook," says Google.
The rebranding of the Chromecast app may seem minor, but it shows Google's future plans of the Cast technology. The company managed to sell about 20 million units of the first-gen Chromecast within two years, which made the dongle one of the most-popular streaming devices on the market.
In 2015, Google launched the second-generation Chromecast. The company also granted access to the Cast technology to third parties making devices such as speakers, TVs and more.
Champy's post highlights Google's partnership with Vizio, a consumer electronics manufacturer. Vizio's upcoming P-Series speakers, displays and soundbars will incorporate Cast technology. Devices in the P-Series will support casting in Ultra HD (up to 4K) and Dolby Vision High Dynamic Range content for clear and bright colors.
The rebranding of the Chromecast app sends a clear message that the Chromecast dongle is not the only device to benefit from Cast technology. The name change also points at Google's efforts into getting more Cast partners.
In addition to rebranding of the Chromecast app, Google has also launched an updated Google Cast website, which gives details of TVs and speakers that support Google Cast without additional accessories.
The updated app for iOS and Android will roll out to devices and will be available as a free download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store toward the end of this week.
