Starting with version 51, Google Chrome has the built-in ability to "cast" media straight from your computer to your TV. Well, actually, to any device that's connected to a Google Chromecast device.

google-chrome-new-cast-option

It's quite simple to do. Pull down the options menu (with the hamburger icon) and select the newly-available Cast action.

This brings up a selection menu where you can choose which device you want to cast onto, which is nifty if you have multiple Chromecasts in your house. In the future, you'll also be able to cast into Google Hangouts!

With a device selected, you'll see this:

google-chrome-new-cast-selection

No matter what, you'll be able to cast your current tab or your entire desktop screen. However, if the tab includes a video source, such as YouTube.com, then you'll be able to specifically cast the video as well.

And that's it. The nice thing about this update is that Chrome automatically handles everything behind the scenes, including resolutions, bitrates, and all of that jazz.

Google Chromecast was already awesome, but it's advancements like these that make it worthy of being a home media center replacement.

Does this make you more likely to purchase a Chromecast? If you already own one, what's your favorite way to cast media to your TV? Let us know in the comments!