Lilbits (2-01-2014): Getting more out of a Chromecast

The Google Chromecast is a simple (and cheap) device you can plug into the HDMI port on your TV to stream internet videos from Netflix, Hulu, and other sites while using your phone, tablet or PC as a remote control.

But it can also do so much more. Google hasn’t officially released the software developer kit for the Chromecast, but we’ve already seen it hacked and rooted and seen a number of tricks for getting it to do interesting things.

The folks at Pixel Dynamo have put together a pretty handy list of Chromecast tips and tricks ranging from using a Chromecast with a hotel room TV to bypassing geographical restrictions for online video sites.

Here’s a roundup of tech news from around the web.

• Compilation of Chromecast tips, tricks, and tweaks
  Tired of using Google’s cheap TV box the way it’s meant to be used? This list of tips ranges from the obvious (installing Chromecast-compatible apps) to the more unusual (Playing Wiimote-style games on a TV). [Pixel Dynamo]
• Testing 4 different Linux distros on an Intel NUC mini PC w/Core i5 Haswell
  The tricky bit is finding software that works with the relatively new wireless card. Ubuntu pretty much works out of the box. [Ars Technica]
• CyanogenMod 10.2.1 maintenance release fixes bugs
  This is one of those boring but important updates that doesn’t add any new features, but which should offer more reliable performance. [CyanogenMod]
• Alcatel One Touch Fire won’t get a Firefox OS 1.2 update… but it WILL be updated to version 1.3
  While Alcatel is skipping the latest Firefox OS software update, the company is committed to offering new software for its low-cost Firefox phone. When OS 1.3 hits the streets users will be able to download and install it. [CNET]
• Basis B1 fitness tracker/wristwatch review
  KT Bradford’s been wearing one of the most advanced fitness trackers on and off for the past few months, and while she’s pretty impressed with its sensitivity and the stats it offers she’s still not sold on wearing this type of gadget on her wrist. It’s also one of the most expensive devices of its type. Powerful features don’t come cheap. [High Tech Health]
• Get S-Off on any rooted/unlocked HTC device easily with Firewater tool
  If you have an HTC device, unlocking the bootloader is all you need to do to install custom ROMs. But if you want complete access to all storage partitions so you can resize them, make permanent changes, or just have full control of your device, you need S-Off. This tool makes it easy on most recent HTC devices. [Android Police]

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