Chowmainsoft has introduced a Google Cast driver for Control4, bringing the audio capabilities of Google Home and Google Cast devices into the Control4 smart-home ecosystem.

Control4 already integrates with Google Home for functions such as lighting, shades and other smart-home devices. The driver extends that relationship to audio, allowing Google Home, Nest speakers and Nest Hubs to work more closely with Control4 audio systems.

Users can continue casting music from their phone or using Google Assistant commands, while Control4 gains visibility and control over the resulting audio session.

The driver provides Now Playing information, including artwork, title and artist metadata, along with playback controls, volume and mute. It can also automatically turn Control4 rooms on and off when a Google Cast audio endpoint becomes active.

For integrators, the driver adds further options through Control4 bindings, programming events and local IP control with instant feedback. Devices with analogue outputs can also be bound into the system, while programming functions allow integrators to trigger announcements using audio files hosted on the local Control4 controller or play audio from URLs, including MP3 files and internet radio streams.

Playback commands include play, pause, stop, next and previous, with corresponding events available for programming.

The result is a more unified audio experience for homes where Google Cast devices and a Control4 system coexist, allowing home owners to retain the simplicity of Google voice control and mobile casting without keeping their Google and Control4 audio experiences completely separate.