Vizio Smart TVs Will Get Casting Support For Disney+ In December

Vizio is rolling out software updates for its SmartCast HDTVs that'll make it possible for Disney Plus subscribers to access the new streaming service. Rather than making the Disney Plus app available on its smart TVs, Vizio is using something like a workaround solution involving casting (for now). Select models have already received new Apple AirPlay support and Chromecast built-in will arrive next month.

In a statement this week, Vizio revealed that it has pushed out a software update bringing new AirPlay support to its 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 SmartCast HDTVs. With this, Apple device owners can send Disney Plus content to their television using either a Mac running at least version 10.14.5 or an iOS device running iOS 12.3 or later.

Non-Apple users will have to wait a few more weeks before they get similar abilities. Vizio said it will release another software update for these smart TV models in early December that'll add Chromecast built-in functionality. Once that arrives, Disney Plus subscribers will be able to cast content from the streaming service to their TV.

If you're using AirPlay, the smart TV and the Apple device must be connected to the same WiFi network for the feature to work. This is only a temporary solution to the streaming issue — Vizio says it is currently working with Disney in order to bring a proper Disney+ streaming service app to its SmartCast TV platform.

Disney Plus is available on a large number of consumer streaming devices, including Fire TV and Roku, but availability on smart TVs is a bit slim. Those with Roku OS and Fire TV Edition smart TVs can download the app to their television, but others must have certain Samsung or LG smart TVs to directly access the service.