Have you ever curled up on the couch, ready to stream the latest YouTube video on your fancy new smart TV powered by Google TV, only to find…nothing happens?
Or the YouTube app crashes unexpectedly when streaming? Frustrating doesn’t even begin to describe it.
We feel your pain.
We’re here to help with simple, step-by-step instructions to get YouTube streaming app up and running again on your Chromecast with Google TV or smart TV powered by Google TV. No CS degree required.
First, the Basics
- Did you restart your TV? This sound obvious, but a quick power cycle can clear up glitchy apps. Unplug the TV from the wall outlet. Wait 30 seconds. Plug it back in.
- Is YouTube updated? Check for a pending app update. Bug fixes in updates often resolve issues.
- Strong WiFi signal? YouTube needs internet to cast. Check connection strength.
Simple stuff first. You’d be amazed how many problems that fixes.
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How to Troubleshoot and Fix Youtube App Not Working or Loading and Keeps Crashing on Chromecast with Google TV & Smart TVs
But if YouTube still isn’t working, don’t chuck the remote across the room just yet. More advanced troubleshooting is required.
Delete and Reinstall the YouTube App
Corrupt app data is a common culprit with non-working apps. The nuclear option is to delete YouTube and reinstall a fresh copy:
- On the app home screen, find YouTube, press and hold the select button on the remote until the app begins to wiggle
- Then select the (-) icon to delete
- Open the App Store on your TV and search for YouTube
- Download and install a clean copy
- Log into YouTube with your Google account when prompted
This essentially resets the app. Deleting and reinstalling flushes out corrupt data.
Update YouTube App and Google TV Device Software
- Navigate to Settings and check for System Software updates. Install if any are available. Updates often fix bugs.
- YouTube app updates can also resolve issues. Check the YouTube page in the App Store for updates.
Firmware and app updates are an easy software fix for problems. Like applying patches in a video game. Updates improve performance and squash bugs.
Reset Your Chromecast with Google TV to Factory Settings
When all else fails, a factory reset gives you a clean slate:
- Back up important info first, like WiFi passwords
- Go to Settings > System > Advanced System Settings > Factory Data Reset
- Select Reset. This erases all data and resets to original factory settings.
Resetting your TV to factory default clears out any weird software gremlins that may have crept in over time. Your TV will be like new again. Minus the cool new TV smell.
Still Nothing? Could Be the Router
YouTube depends on internet access to cast video to your TV. WiFi dead zones or router issues can break that connection.
If YouTube isn’t working after the steps above, try:
- Power cycle your router by unplugging it from power for 60 seconds
- Ensure your TV is within strong WiFi signal range of your router
- Check for firmware updates for your router and install if available
- Forget the WiFi network on your TV and reconnect from scratch
Rebooting your router and verifying the WiFi signal could get YouTube up and running again.
Hope this helps you get YouTube working again so you can get back to cat videos and epic fails ASAP. Let us know if you have any other questions!
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