Spotify is updating its desktop apps on macOS and Windows, bringing the ability to stream to Chromecast devices. The Android and iOS apps were the only clients that could initiate a Chromecast stream via the Spotify Connect functionality. The updated app should be rolling out to all desktop versions now.
The addition of the feature is a nifty one for Chromecast users that prefer the music streaming service on MacBook laptops or other Windows PCs since those could previously not cast their content to a TV. The stream initiation can be done right from the Spotify Connect UI at the bottom of the app, just like one would for switching between other devices. The connected Chromecast devices show up in the list of available devices.
The feature has been requested for a long time, as viewed on this Spotify Community thread which dates back to 2016. Recent responses by Rock Star MattSuda on multiple threads (via 9to5Google) confirmed the availability of the functionality. The app must be updated to version 1.1.38 or newer.
Spotify is also bringing video podcasts to the app on all platforms. The addition of the ability to stream to a TV via Chromecast right from the desktop further makes the service a viable alternative to competing offerings.