On April 25th, 2017, Onkyo announced a new firmware update for all home theater and hi-fi products manufactured during or after 2016. The firmware update will deliver built-in Chromecast feature to a spectrum of Onkyo and Integra home theater products.
Note: This firmware update will only support Chromecast audio streaming.
1. What is Chromecast Built-in?
Chromecast built-in products allows other apps to run simultaneously while streaming audio. Users may answer calls, send emails, or play games without risking interrupting audio playback. Supported by both Ethernet connectivity and dual-band 5 Ghz/2.4 Ghz Wi-Fi, updated products will enhance user experience by allowing users to play a broad range of music, radio, or other audio programs from popular Chromecast-enabled apps to their systems easily.
The update also add support for the Google Home speaker and other audio devices that support Google Assistant. Speaking aloud, users can ask Google Home to find and play music from streaming services to their home theater systems and adjust volume and song selection as well.
2. How To Get It and Use It
Installation of this firmware update simply requires network connection wirelessly or through ethernet connection to the internet.
To utilize this update, apps must be Chromecast-enabled. As well your Onkyo receiver and your streaming device must be connected to the same network. Chromecast built-in is supported by the following devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Android phones and tablets, Chromebook, and Chrome browser on Mac, Windows, and Linux PCs.
By tapping or clicking on the Chromecast icon in your Chromecast-enabled apps, audio signals are sent wirelessly to your home theater system.
With sampling rates of up to 48 kHz (for lossless sources), audio quality will be five-star.
3. Which Models Are Eligible For The Update?
The firmware update activates Chromecast built-in on the following Onkyo products:
- TX-NR676
- TX-NR575
- TX-8270
- PR-RZ5100
- TX-RZ3100
- TX-RZ810
- TX-TZ710
- TX-RZ610
- TX-NR757
- TX-NR656
- TX-NR555
- HT-S7800
- SBT-A500
- NCP-302
For more information visit: https://www.google.com/chromecast/built-in/