For Chromecast users seeking deeper control and customization, AutoCast offers a powerful solution. This tool extends beyond basic casting, enabling users to automate and personalize their TV experience in ways the standard Chromecast interface does not allow.
What is AutoCast?
AutoCast is a specialized Android application that functions exclusively as a plugin for the automation app Tasker. Its primary purpose is to provide advanced, automated control over Google Chromecast devices. The target users are tech enthusiasts and Tasker aficionados who want to display custom information, manage media playback, and create integrated smart home displays on their television screens.
Why Should You Use AutoCast?
Users choose AutoCast to break free from the limitations of standard casting applications. It provides a framework for truly personalized big-screen experiences.
Enables the creation of custom information screens (e.g., weather, calendar).
Allows for advanced automation of media casting from various sources.
Provides greater control over playback of other casting applications.
Key Features of AutoCast
Custom Screen Creation: Design and cast personalized screens that can display images, data, and other content.
Full Screen Media Casting: Cast video, photos, and audio in full screen, with support for slideshows and system audio.
Alternate Home Screen: Create a customized version of the Chromecast home screen with your own background and information.
YouTube Integration: Cast specific YouTube videos or entire playlists directly to your TV.
Playback Control: Manage media playback for other apps casting to the Chromecast, such as pausing or skipping tracks.
Additional Features
Broad Source Compatibility: The app supports casting media from a wide array of web sources and services like Dropbox, Vimeo, and Flickr.
Multi-User Potential: Enables basic collaborative features, such as multiple users interacting with a single cast image or presentation.
How to Download and Install AutoCast
1. Ensure you have the automation app Tasker installed on your Android device. A free trial is available.
2. Open the Google Play Store on your device.
3. Search for “AutoCast”.
4. Select the app from the search results and tap “Install”.
5. Once installed, open AutoCast and follow any initial setup prompts.
How to Use AutoCast
1. Open the Tasker app on your device.
2. Create a new task or project.
3. Add an action and locate the AutoCast plugin from the list.
4. Configure the action within the plugin, such as selecting a media file to cast or defining a custom screen.
5. Run the task to execute the casting command.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
Offers an incredibly high degree of customization for Chromecast displays.
Powerful integration with Tasker allows for complex automation.
Provides functionality not available in most standard casting apps.
Cons
Not a standalone app; requires a separate purchase and understanding of Tasker to be useful.
Has a significant learning curve, making it inaccessible for casual users.
The free demo version is extremely limited, with watermarks on text and restricted media sources.
Is AutoCast Safe to Use?
AutoCast is safe to install from the official Google Play Store. As a casting tool, it will request permissions related to network access and storage to function correctly. It does not engage in malicious data collection practices.
Compatible Apps or Tools
AutoCast is designed to work seamlessly with Tasker. For enhanced functionality, it can also be integrated with other plugins like AutoShare and AutoRemote to trigger casting from other applications or a web browser.
FAQs
Do I need to buy Tasker to use AutoCast?
Yes, AutoCast is a plugin and is completely non-functional without the full version of Tasker installed on your device.
Can I cast Netflix with it?
No. While AutoCast can control playback (play/pause) of some apps, it cannot cast content from DRM-protected streaming services like Netflix or Disney+.
Is the free version useful?
The free demo of AutoCast is severely limited, primarily serving as a trial to test basic functionality before purchasing the full version, which is required for practical use.
Conclusion
AutoCast is a niche but immensely powerful tool for users who have Tasker and want to push their Chromecast to its absolute limits. It is not for everyone due to its complexity and dependencies, but for the right user, it unlocks a new dimension of television interaction and automation.
