Pixelation on startup with Google TV

[Pat9]

Sometimes when I start a chromecast session the image (possibly from an earlier session) is badly pixelated and the audio is very noisy. Then the Samsung TV resets and the session proceeds normally. This has only started in the last months. I did a Factory reset but it hasn't helped. Is this a firmware problem?

[armandofloripa · Accepted solution]

It's possible that the pixelation issue you're experiencing with Google TV on startup is caused by a firmware problem. There have been reports of similar issues from other users, and some have found that updating the firmware on their Chromecast or TV has resolved the problem.

Here are some things you can try to troubleshoot the issue:

1. **Make sure your Chromecast and TV are running the latest firmware updates.** You can check for updates on the Chromecast app or by going to Settings > System > About on your TV.
2. **Restart your Chromecast and TV.** This can sometimes clear up minor glitches that can cause pixelation.
3. **Try using a different HDMI cable.** A damaged or faulty HDMI cable can cause pixelation and other video problems.
4. **Try connecting your Chromecast to a different HDMI port on your TV.** Some TVs have HDMI ports that are better suited for streaming devices.

If you've tried all of these steps and are still experiencing pixelation, then it's possible that the problem is with the Chromecast itself. You may need to contact Google support for further assistance.

Here are some additional tips for preventing pixelation with Google TV:

* Make sure your Chromecast is connected to a strong Wi-Fi network. Weak or unstable Wi-Fi can cause pixelation and other streaming problems.
* Avoid using too many bandwidth-intensive apps simultaneously. If you're using other devices on your Wi-Fi network, it can reduce the bandwidth available for Google TV, which can lead to pixelation.
* Keep your Chromecast and TV software up to date. Software updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can help prevent pixelation.

[Pat9]

Thank you very much for your detailed reply. However, many of them do not apply as far as I know because the pixellating only happens when the Chromecast starts (and not always). It lasts for a few seconds then it restarts the TV and resumes normal video for the rest of the session.  

The system settings are "Android TV security patch level Sept 1, 2003."

My TV is an old Samsung and at first I thought it was the problem but the other "channels" including antenna have not problems. I do not think I can update the software for it. There is an update function on the menu but it wants a USB connection. 

I have restarted Chromecast and even did a force reset and nothing helped.

I don't think the HDMI cable is a problem since most of the video sessions are fautless.

I did try using a different HDMI port but it didn't help.

So I guess I need to contact Google support.

[Pat9]

After I completed this reply I started another channel (antenna) no problem and then switched to a different one (not the Chromecast one) and for the first time it pixellated the same way and the background image was that of the antenna channel. So now I think it must be the TV.

Thanks

[Kimy]

Hi folks,

We appreciate your help here, @armandofloripa.

@Pat9, thanks for posting and for being a step ahead of us. I was thinking it could be the TV as well, because of the way you described it. It happens during initial streaming or casting, as if it’s still rendering until it coops up. The best way to isolate it is to try your Chromecast device on another TV to see if it persists. Let us know how it goes.

Thanks,

Kimy

[Kimy]

Hi Pat9,

Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s possible. It may lead to the downfall of major functions that require the most up-to-date software. Let us know if you still have questions.

Sincerely,

Kimy

[Pat9]

is it possible to install an earlier firmware version?

[Pat9]

If it was happening 100% of the timing then trying on a different tv would make sense but it doesn't. 

[Pat9]

we couldn't test it because just when it appeared to be failing 100% of the time it stopped briefly and it would interfere with the use of the other tv. 
it seems that the chromecast adapter is faulty. Is it covered under warranty?

[Kimy]

Hello Pat9,

Thanks for the details. The same theory can be applied to the Chromecast device. We can’t confirm if it’s the device or if it’s the TV until we test it on another TV (or multiple TVs, if possible). Get back to us once you confirm that the Chromecast device is behaving the same way regardless of which TV model was used. We will then proceed to the next course of action.

We look forward to your response.

Thanks,

Kimy

[Pat9]

I am using the 4k version. I have decided to get the HD version rather than spend a long time on the 4K one. If they both fail then the TV is probably the problem. 

[Kimy]

Hi Pat9,

I see that you have it replaced already. Let’s see how it goes once the replacement arrives. Keep us posted.

Best,

Kimy

[Pat9]

I have tried to install the HD version many times but each time I get an error when I enter the password to sign onto my app. I can sign on to the app using the same password from my iPad. Is it possible Google is not transmitting my password correctly?

[Kimy]

Hello Pat9,

This sounds different now from the original issue. You mean, you’re having trouble logging in with your credentials to your subscription apps (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc.)? Are you having a hard time using the remote as you input those credentials? Which app(s) specifically are you having trouble with? Any update about the original issue?

We look forward to your response.

Thanks,

Kimy

[Pat9]

It's an consequence of the original issue because i gave up on solving it with the original 4k Chromecast and decided to install the HD version. I was able to do that but i needed to use the CBC app (which is the main reason i got it in the first place).  In order to use all of the features of the app I have to sign into a CBC account. Now I have hit a road block because it keeps saying I have an incorrect password. I am using the remote to enter the password but i used it for other passwords (network etc. )

in my discussions with CBC support they eventually said I do not have the most recent version of the CBC app. I have double checked and it is the only one available. So there is nothing more I can do until this gets resolved. 

thanks

[Kimy]

Hi Pat9,

Let’s determine if the original issue has been resolved. Try playing apps like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc. to see if it’s still doing that rendering. Then we determine what’s going on with this CBC login issue. We look forward to your response.

Regards,

Kimy

[Pat9]

Hi Kimy

Today when I started Chromecast I noticed that the background to pixilation included Crave images. I don't have the Crave app installed and when the pixelation stopped the Home screen displayed and I had to move to one of my installed apps. 

[Kimy]

Hello Pat9,

I would like to refer this to our support team. Kindly fill out this form and let me know once it’s done so I can forward it to them.

Best,

Kimy

[Pat9]

My opinion is that the pixelation had nothing to do with any apps. It starts before them. It may last several seconds at startup but before it gets to an app. Once it has gone through the pixels it settles down and I can choose an app or continue with the one I was using when I shut down. The only other app i use is YouTube. The pixelation doesn't happen every time i start chromecast but most times. 

[Pat9]

I have completed the form. Thanks for your help. I'm about to throw it out especially because it freaks my cat out. 

[Kimy]

Hi Pat9,

We got your form — thanks for filling it out. I’ve endorsed it to the support team, so kindly wait for them to reach out to you via email.

Please allow a few days for the team to contact you.

Cheers,

Kimy

[Pat9]

Please cancel this request. My television stopped working completely (after 15 years) so Chromecast wasn't the cause. 
thanks

[Kimy]

Hello Pat9,

Understood! I’ll reach out to the team and have the case closed. Feel free to create a new thread if you have questions or concerns in the future.

Thanks,

Kimy