4K Chromecast gets Aug 2026 patch; HD variant remains on old code

Google has initiated the rollout of its first software update of 2026 for the Chromecast with Google TV (4K), ending an eleven-month period since the previous release. According to reporting by 9to5Google, this deployment targets only the 4K device, leaving the HD variant without a concurrent security improvement. The release note identifies the build as UTTA.260813.002.

The risk

The primary function of this update is to advance the Android Security Patch Level from October 2025 to August 2026. This patch level designation indicates that the software includes security fixes up to that date. Google’s release notes also mention "Other bug fixes and performance improvements," though specific details regarding those changes are not provided in the public summary.

Who is exposed

The update is available for the Chromecast with Google TV (4K). The HD variant of the device is explicitly excluded from this release cycle. Historically, both streaming devices receive updates simultaneously, making this separate rollout an anomaly that requires manual verification for HD device owners.

Cost and compliance

There is no mention of financial penalties or specific compliance mandates tied to this update in the source material. The update simply advances the security patch level and includes general bug fixes. Users must manually check for the update on their devices to ensure they are running the latest version.

What should you do?

Managers should verify that all 4K Chromecast devices have received update UTTA.260813.002. Users can check for the update by navigating to Settings, then System, About, and finally System update on the device interface. HD device owners should monitor for a separate announcement, as they are not included in this batch.

What to do and how to stay safe: Google

• Verify the current Android Security Patch Level on all connected streaming devices to ensure they match the August 2026 standard.
• Manually check for system updates on 4K models if automatic installation has not occurred within the expected rollout window.
• Isolate HD variants that have not received updates from sensitive network segments until a compatible patch is released.
• Document the build number UTTA.260813.002 in asset management records to confirm the device is running the latest available software.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Security Architecture: 8 Practices for Device Integrity

General security guidance from the Vector Tribune newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Chromecast with Google TV HD get this update?

No, the HD variant does not receive a new release today; the update is exclusively for the 4K model.

What is the new security patch level?

The update bumps the Android Security Patch Level to August 2026, up from the previous October 2025 level.

How long has it been since the last update?

According to 9to5Google, the last release occurred eleven months prior to this 2026 update.