Google has launched an official Google Cast Software Development Kit (SDK) for app-developers, unlocking the path to now allow a flood of new apps or web sites to stream to the Chromecast dongle. This will allow app makers to easily add Chromecast integration to their iOS, Android and web apps.
Chromecast was introduced six months ago by Google as a $35 HDMI dongle with limited support for only a handful of selected apps which included Netflix, YouTube and a few of Google's own apps including its Chrome browser. It has since been expanded to allow new partners such as Pandora, HBO Go, Plex and Hulu Plus onto the platform.
The announcement made in Google's blog post said that the SDK publishing "means even more of our favourite movies, TV shows, and music will become available on Chromecast as developers work with the SDK."
We can see a lot potential in Chromecast in the coming months. If you are already a Chromecast owner you won't need to do anything as the device has already been updated to be compatible with Google Cast SDK. Once an app has been tested and published, users would be able to get the updated app (with cast button) through their regular app markets.
Rishi Chandra, Chromecast PM Director, believes that we could see millions of websites and mobile apps eventually add support for Google Cast, but its future depends on developers. "Gaming is an exciting opportunity for what you can do with Chromecast," said Chandra, pointing out it's an area that could be focused on by developers. "It's exactly the right model. The fact that it works with your iOS phone and Android tablet and Windows laptop is true multiscreen. There's a lot of potential there," he added.
Developers can find out more details on how to use the SDK and integrate the Google Cast APIs into their iOS, Android or Chrome apps on the Google Cast Developers site. There will also be some user experience guidelines for developers to make the most of the big screen.
