Cast Local Media to Chromecast from Android - Easy Guide
Casting Local Media to Your Chromecast from Android
Streaming content from services like YouTube and Netflix to your Chromecast using an Android phone is straightforward. However, what about videos stored directly on your device or accessible through your home network?
A Reader's Question
Dear How-To Geek,
I regularly use my Chromecast with YouTube and Netflix. Is my access limited to apps with built-in Chromecast support? Can I stream any file from my Android phone to my HDTV? I’ve used media center hardware in the past, but it would be incredibly useful to simply play files from my phone or a network share directly on the Chromecast.
Is there an application that can facilitate this?
Sincerely,
Castin' Crazy
You've inquired at an opportune moment. The ES File Explorer app for Android has recently been updated with a dedicated Chromecast plugin.
ES File Explorer: A Powerful Solution
This plugin is remarkably effective, enabling you to stream compatible video and audio files from your phone’s internal storage, SD card, or any connected storage device.
Furthermore, it extends to any compatible media source accessible through ES File Explorer, including network shares.
Alternatives and Why ES File Explorer Stands Out
While numerous apps in the Play Store offer similar functionality, many prove unreliable.
These alternatives often come from less established developers, exhibit compatibility issues across various devices, and suffer from ongoing problems.
We recommend utilizing the new plugin for ES File Explorer to avoid potential frustrations with programs that may lack consistent updates or initial functionality.
How to Cast with ES File Explorer
Let’s examine how easily ES File Explorer’s plugin enables casting. If you haven’t already, download the application from the Play Store.
If you already have it installed, ensure it’s updated to the latest version.
Launch the app and navigate to the file you wish to stream to your Chromecast.
To access the casting options, long-press the filename and select the "More" button located in the lower corner.
Within the "More" menu, click the "Chromecast" option.
If this is your first time using the plugin, you’ll be prompted to download it – a small file from the Play Store.
Confirm the download by clicking "Yes".
After installation, repeat the process by selecting "More" then "Chromecast". All Chromecasts detected on your network will appear in the ES File Explorer menu.
Selecting your Chromecast will initiate playback on your connected HDTV through the ES File Explorer native player.
Enjoy Seamless Streaming
The ES File Explorer plugin provides a clear on-screen display, showing the filename and basic controls like play/pause, forward, and scrubbing, mirroring the interface on your Android device.
This streamlined process allows you to effortlessly stream content from ES File Explorer to your Chromecast!
Have a tech question you need answered? Send us an email at ask@howtogeek.com and we’ll do our best to assist you.
