The Force Awakens on the New Starz App via Google Chromecast Review

This weekend Star Wars: The Force Awakens premieres on Starz, and I had the chance to watch via Google Chromecast and the new Starz app using my Smart HDTV and my iPad. It was a simple set-up, and I’m technology challenged — If I could get it all working, anyone could!

Chromecast is a nifty little device that you plug into the HDMI port in the back of your television and available power outlet. It took me all of a few seconds to get that done. When installation is complete, you download the Chromecast app to your smart phone or tablet and follow the easy instructions that allow you to sync your TV with your mobile device, which will act as a remote control once you’re ready to view your selected programming.

Content on streaming apps that you have on your device – such as HBO GO, Netflix, or Hulu, to name a few — will be “Cast” to your TV via your Chromecast device. That’s where Starz and The Force Awakens comes in!

You can download the all-new Starz app to your mobile device and, if you’re already a subscriber, you will immediately be able to watch programming via Chromecast simply by tapping the icon found within the app once your desired movie or series is launched. From there, you can control the volume, pause, rewind — anything you’d do with a remote.

You can also navigate away from the Starz app while your movie or series is in progress. That’s handy if you like to check in on other apps, or turn off your device altogether so you’re not distracted. It will not affect what’s on your TV screen.

If you are not a Starz subscriber, you will be able to sign up for a free seven-day trial once you launch the app. Having Chromecast is not necessary — you will still be able to stream Starz programming on your mobile device.

The Starz app also lets you download programming to watch offline, which is convenient if you’re not within reach of wi-fi or a cell signal, share on social media, and create playlists. The app itself is intuitive and very user friendly.

Watching Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Starz via Google Chromecast was a great experience, and the quality of the picture and the sound — the whole playback — worked seamlessly.