Streaming video to your TV through Chromecast sometimes requires pausing the screen—whether to answer a call, take a break, or focus on something else. Chromecast streams content from your phone, tablet, or computer to your TV, but the method for pausing playback depends on your specific device and app. Pausing the screen stops the video and audio, holding your place until you’re ready to resume.

Pausing Chromecast Streaming Using Your Phone or Tablet

Step 1: Open the app you’re using to cast (such as YouTube, Netflix, or Spotify) on your phone or tablet. The app should display a casting icon, indicating that content is currently streaming to your Chromecast device.

Step 2: Locate the playback controls within the app. This is typically at the bottom of the screen for most video and music apps. You’ll see standard controls including play, pause, rewind, and fast-forward.

Step 3: Tap the Pause button. This immediately stops the video or audio on your TV. The stream remains loaded, allowing you to resume playback by tapping Play when you’re ready.

Step 4: To resume, tap Play in the same controls. Playback will continue from the point you paused.

Pausing Chromecast Streaming from a Computer

Step 1: If you’re casting from a browser (such as Google Chrome), look for the cast icon in the video player or browser toolbar. For example, when casting a YouTube video, the controls appear in the video window.

Step 2: Click the Pause button within the video player or in the casting controls that appear in the Chrome toolbar. This will pause the content on your TV instantly.

Step 3: To resume, click Play in the same area. The video or audio will pick up where it left off.

Pausing with a Smart TV Remote (Where Supported)

Step 1: Some newer TVs with Chromecast built-in allow you to use the physical TV remote for basic playback control. If this feature is available, press the Pause button on your TV remote while streaming.

Step 2: The TV should respond by pausing the stream. This works with supported apps and TV models only. If nothing happens, use your phone or computer as described above.

Step 1: If you need to stop playback entirely, you can disconnect the casting session from your device. In the casting app, tap the cast icon and select Stop Casting or Disconnect.

Step 2: This will remove the stream from your TV, but you’ll lose your place in the video or audio. Use this only if you want to fully stop the stream, not just pause temporarily.

Pausing Chromecast streams is straightforward when using your phone, tablet, or computer. For the fastest results, use the playback controls in your casting app or browser. Some TV remotes also support pause functions, but device compatibility varies. This approach keeps your spot in the video or audio, making it easy to pick up right where you left off.