James R | On 02, Apr 2014

VUDU and Rdio have both joined Google Chromecast.

VUDU is a video streaming app that allows you to watch movies and TV shows. Using Google’s streaming platform, the VOD service will be able to be watched on your TV via your laptop, tablet or smartphone with no set-top box needed.

As with all Chromecast video apps, you will be able to use VUDU’s enabled mobile device to control video playback, volume and closed captions, just like a remote control.

You can begin casting immediately by using the Chrome browser (with Google Cast extension installed) on a PC or Mac. On mobile devices, just download the latest VUDU Player for Apple iOS and VUDU App for Android to get started.

Rdio is a radio subscription service that offers a library of music available on-demand. Essentially a rival to Spotify and Google Music, Rdio offers 20 million songs available to listen to free on the web for up to six months. For unlimited listening, the service costs £9.99 a month. (A Rdio mobile app is available with a 7-day free trial.)

Once the Chromecast device is setup, simply press the cast icon in the Rdio iOS, Android or Web apps.

“Rdio on Google Chromecast marks another milestone in Rdio’s commitment to delivering the best music experience everywhere,” said Anthony Bay, chief executive officer of Rdio. “Music fans can access Rdio’s massive catalogue of over 20 million songs or start a station easily, all from Chromecast on their TV.”

Google Chromecast is a new device that turns your TV into a smart TV without a set-top box. The stick plugs into the HDMI port of your television set and allows you to connect via Wi-Fi from your mobile devices or computer and stream – or “cast” – content onto the big screen. The platform is open to developers, which gives it strong potential for living room entertainment, although its launch was not accompanied by many apps, other than Netflix, iPlayer and YouTube. The release of Rdio and Spotify mark a growing number of apps available on the platform – and highlight the range of media that Chromecast can work with.

Chromecast is available in the UK for £30.

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