Your Guide to Using Google Chromecast for Digital Signage

The many benefits of digital signage are well-known by this point. Digital signs are dynamic, they’re far more engaging than static signage, they’re easily customizable—the list goes on and on. 

Since you’ve probably already made the decision to adopt digital signage for your business, the next step is getting everything you need to set it up. 

While Google Chromecast isn’t exactly a powerhouse, it’s adequate to operate digital signage on a small scale. It’s a good low-budget option to get your foot in the door. Best of all, it’s super easy to set up and start using. 

Here’s everything you need to know about using Google Chromecast for digital signage. 

Find the Best Digital Signage Software for Your Needs

First things first, you should choose digital signage software that’s easy to use, and offers the features you need. Since your digital signage system will be on a relatively small scale, you can probably get everything you need with free digital signage software. 

As you go, you can consider subscribing to a monthly plan that will allow you to create and broadcast playlists without any watermarks. This is obviously preferable, and won’t set you back too much. Especially if you plan on using multiple digital signs, it’s definitely worth it.

Get Your Chromecast Devices

Next, buy your Chromecast devices. Google’s latest version is Chromecast with Google TV, and it comes in two options, 4K or HD. 

You’ll need a designated device for each screen you plan to use as a digital sign, and you’ll need to set them up individually. However, if you are using smart TVs, you might not even need a Chromecast device at all. 

Smart TVs that support the Google Play Store can install and run applications on their own. This means you can run your digital signage software directly through a compatible smart TV without needing to connect it to anything else. 

Although this is the easiest and most convenient option, keep in mind that consumer smart TVs aren’t designed for incessant use like commercial screens are. Displays that are designed for digital signage will offer more longevity and durability. So when you’re ready to expand your setup, it’s a good idea to pick up some commercial displays. 

Note that older Chromecast devices (those released before Chromecast with Google TV) can’t install their own apps, and therefore can’t download and run the Luna Screens app. Be sure to get the latest version if you plan to use Chromecast as a digital signage media player. 

Setting Up Chromecast with Google TV for Digital Signage

Getting your Chromecast device set up for digital signage isn’t hard and only takes a few minutes. Simply plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect it to wi-fi, and follow the on-screen instructions. 

Chromecast with Google TV includes the ability to install apps from the Google Play Store. So all you need to do is search for Luna Screens - Digital Signage, install it and set it up on your Chromecast device, and you’ll be ready to start crafting your own playlists using in-app templates and an intuitive design editor. 

Pros and Cons of Using Google Chromecast for Digital Signage

Even the most basic digital signage system is going to be much, much better than a poster board. Having said that, it’s still important to consider the upsides and downsides of Chromecast as a media player for digital signage. 

After all, there are many different options out there, and some are even purpose-built for use with digital signage, albeit at higher price points. 

Here are the ups and downs of using Chromecast for digital signs. 

Pros

• Chromecast is a very cost effective solution for those with displays that don’t have app stores and can’t install digital signage software

• Chromecast comes with built-in apps that are useful for digital signage. You can also use a feature called Chromecast Built-In to stream content from apps on your personal device directly to your display

• The device updates automatically

• The device is very compact and lightweight 

Cons

• With Chromecast, you can’t update or change content remotely while casting content through apps like Google Photos on your personal device. However, with the Luna Screens app, you can manage content remotely 

• Chromecast isn’t as powerful as media players that are purpose-built for digital signage. It’s not designed to handle things like 4K video walls, or 24-hour use. This may result in issues

• Chromecast doesn’t offer an option for vertical screen orientation on its own. However, through the Luna Screens app, you can change the orientation

What Are the Best Use Cases for Chromecast Digital Signage? 

If you have a small store or restaurant, Chromecast can be a great low cost digital signage solution. It’s cheap, easy to figure out, and does what it’s supposed to do. 

For use with a few screens, like a digital menu board, it’ll work just fine as long as you have one Chromecast device for each display. 

However, if your business expands and more and more screens are needed across multiple locations, you might want to consider using more powerful media players that are better suited for digital signage. 

The good news is that even if you upgrade your media players and displays, you can continue using the same digital signage software and keep all of your playlists if you so choose. 

Conclusion 

Google Chromecast is a good low cost digital signage solution. Coupled with Luna Screens digital signage software, it’s an easy way to turn any display into a digital sign in minutes. 

Try Luna Screens digital signage software for yourself now and see how easy it is to turn any displays into an effective digital signage system for your business.