Google launches Chromecast in India

Google has launched its Chromecast streaming device in India, in a move to tap into the growing consumer market for devices in the country.

Chromecast is a thumb-sized media streaming device that plugs into the HDMI port on the TV. Simply using an Android phone, tablet, Windows laptop, or Chromebook it makes possible to cast entertainment and apps right onto the big screen.

The device, which resembles a USB flash drive, allows users to stream videos from the internet to a television from a laptop, phone or tablet, and is currently available in 10 countries, including the United States, Germany and Denmark.

According to CNET, the expansion to India is Google's latest effort to gain traction in the country, an important region as tech giants in the United States aim to extend their reach to emerging markets.

Google has collaborated with Bharti Airtel, India's largest mobile carrier, to allow mobile devices to stream the online videos.

Using the Chromecast, one can mirror what is seen on the small screen to the big screen.

From a laptop,  users can cast any website in Chrome; and from their Android phone or tablet, can mirror their screen to the TV.

With Chromecast, the mobile phone is the user's personalised remote control.

Users can use it to search and browse, play, pause, rewind, control the volume and even make playlists. While casting, you're free to use your phone for other things.