Google has officially announced that it is commencing the rollout of a fix for Chromecast devices that were rendered inoperable due to an expired security certificate authority. This deployment is expected to be completed over the next few days, providing relief to affected users.
On Sunday, March 9, numerous users of Google's second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio devices discovered that their streaming devices were not functioning with official Google apps. However, it's worth noting that unofficial applications, such as VLC, continue to operate without issues. The core problem was linked to the expiration of a device authentication certificate authority that had been valid for ten years, which led to devices displaying an untrusted device error.
While there has been no official update on the support page regarding this issue, Google has confirmed that a patch will be sent out over the internet to users' Chromecasts in the coming days. This firmware-level update will transition the devices to a new Google-owned certificate authority that is valid until 2045, ensuring users can continue to utilize their devices for another 20 years.
In order to receive the update, users must ensure their devices are connected to Wi-Fi, as confirmed by a Google spokesperson. Additionally, Google is working on a solution for users who performed a factory reset during their initial troubleshooting processes. For further updates and next steps, users are encouraged to check the Community page regularly.
Google has strongly advised owners of affected Chromecast devices against performing a factory reset. This reset can complicate matters, as it clears user data and disconnects the device from Wi-Fi, making it unable to receive the necessary updates. Tom Hebb, a Chromecast expert and former Meta software engineer, explained that the expired certificate is integrated into the firmware, and a factory reset will not resolve the issue.
As Google works to distribute the fix, challenges remain for users who have already attempted a factory reset. The Google Home app currently enforces the expired certificate, preventing updates from being pushed. To address this, Google will need to release an update to the Home app to stop enforcing the old certificate. However, this should be a relatively straightforward fix.
Hebb also pointed out that Google faces obstacles in reaching all affected users, as devices require an internet connection to receive the update. Furthermore, updates will also be needed for other devices facing impending certificate expirations, including the Chromecast Ultra, Google Home, Google Home Mini, and potentially some Chromecast-enabled smart TVs from third-party vendors.
In summary, Google has demonstrated impressive agility in developing a new firmware image for a ten-year-old device in just over two days. As they navigate the complexities of this situation, users can look forward to a resolution that ensures continued functionality and security for their Chromecast devices.
