Why can't I connect a second remote to Chromecast?

[Wainwright]

I bought a second remote for Chromecast.  It doesn't work. After time spent with chat help I was told it doesn't work.

What happens when some loses/ breaks a remote?  You need an entirely new Chromecast?

If you can buy another remote, you cannot use your TV until them?  I'm Chromecast / Google TV / YouTube TV

Why are earth design it this way?  

[Kimy]

Hi Wainwright,

Thanks for posting here in the Google Nest Community. A Chromecast Voice Remote is intended to control a Chromecast with Google TV (HD or 4K) one-to-one (1:1). If the remote is experiencing some issues, you can factory reset the remote. If it’s defective now, you can pair a new remote, which would take over the controls for the Chromecast device. Just do a quick press on the (only) button of the actual Chromecast device to initiate pairing mode, then follow the on-screen instructions. I hope this helps. Let us know if you have questions.

Thanks,

Kimy

[Wainwright]

Thanks,  Seems like allowing multiple remotes to control a single Chromecast is the ideal topology.  Why do it any other way?  Especially when that's what other TV/ remote provider do.

Please look into updating the way it works.  Much easier, flexible, and no lose of down time when a remote breaks, depowers, or goes missing.

[Kimy]

Hi there,

We hear you! The Chromecast Voice Remote doesn’t have hardware similar to universal remotes. With its size, it emphasizes the controls for the Chromecast device, a little control for certain devices (soundbar, TV, AVR, etc.) for the usage of certain buttons (volume, power, input), and utilization of Google Assistant, which will be a challenge if two inputs (remotes) control one host (the Chromecast device). I hope this gives clarity to what the Chromecast Voice Remote can do. Let us know if you still have questions.

Regards,

Kimy

[Kimy]

Hi there,

I'm just checking in to make sure that you saw our responses. Please let us know if you still need our help, as we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Regards,
Kimy

[Wainwright]

Yes.  Thanks. 

NOTE: Chromecast should be able to get input from multiple devices. Why?  It makes it more useful.

[Alex_S]

Hello Wainwright,
 

We are grateful to you for sharing your thoughts about some improvements on Chromecast devices/remote. If you can, please send us feedback. If you have other questions in mind, let us  know; otherwise, I'll be locking this thread in the next 24 hours.

Sincerely,
Alex