Device and app evidence
Isolate a missing Cast receiver on the local network
When the receiver is missing from the Cast picker, check receiver identity, local network and app permission before changing the video source.
Find the receiver before testing video
If the picker is empty, the sender has not discovered a suitable Cast device. Start with the receiver turned on and connected to the expected network. Check the room and device name on the television or Google Home. A television and a separate dongle can both be listed under similar names, so verify the HDMI input and receiver you actually intend to use.
Confirm both devices are on the same local network. In a home with a wired receiver, it still needs to be reachable from the sender’s Wi-Fi. A guest or isolated client network can allow internet access while blocking local device discovery. Join the correct trusted network before changing router settings.
Compare a second sender or app
| Result | What it helps isolate |
|---|---|
| A known Cast-enabled app sees the receiver | The original app’s Cast support or permission may be the issue. |
| No app sees the receiver on one phone | Check that phone’s network and Local Network permission where supported. |
| No sender sees the receiver | Check receiver power, network and client isolation. |
| The receiver is visible and connects, but one title fails | Investigate that title, sender app and receiver playback separately. |
Check permission before rebooting the router
- Select the intended receiver and confirm it is awake. Use a supported Cast-enabled app for a control.
- On Apple devices, review Local Network access for the sender app where applicable. Update or restart the app after changing a setting.
- Keep the sender and receiver on your intended trusted LAN. If the network is administered by someone else, ask whether local discovery is permitted.
- Try another authorized sender. If both fail, collect the receiver model, network layout and whether other devices in the home are discoverable.
Sources and further reading
- Google missing Cast device troubleshooting
- Google Cast-enabled app help
- Google Cast app playback · Cast-enabled apps and receiver choice
- Google Cast local network access · Permission on Apple sender devices
- Google Cast setup and client isolation · Guest network and client discovery checks