Google Chromecast’s entry-level device is getting a significant update. On Thursday, Google unveiled the $30 Chromecast with Google TV (HD). It has a new (old) look and performs better than Chromecast’s predecessor. Because Google reused the same design used for the 4K-capable Chromecast, I argue it’s a new (old) design.
The tiny dongle comes with remote control with a special button for activating Google Assistant, and it plugs right into an HDMI socket on your TV. The Chromecast with Google TV (HD) uses the Google TV interface. To help you search episodes and movies and stream material in 1080p high definition with HDR support.
What does Google claim?
Google claims that there are currently over 10,000 apps accessible on the Google TV platform. Of course, you can still cast material from your computer, tablet, or smartphone straight to the new Chromecast. Similar to the original Chromecast that debuted nine years ago. Google TV offers services like Peloton in addition to streaming your favourite shows. Hence it can double as a fitness accessory in addition to being used for entertainment. You can also ask Google to show you a Livestream of your Nest security camera or Nest doorbell with the built-in Google Assistant interface.
Google is accepting orders for the new Chromecast with Google TV (HD), and shipping will begin soon. It costs $29.99 to purchase straight from the Google Store, which is cheaper than the $35 launch price of the original Chromecast device.
Google’s cheap Chromecast HD is available for $30
The Chromecast HD is intended for consumers who haven’t yet upgraded to a 4K TV. Especially those are looking for a solution for a less expensive secondary set in the home. Similar to similar streaming products from Amazon and Roku that top out at 1080p quality. Although the HD hardware is only available in white, it has the same general design and voice remote as the 4K counterpart.
Starting today, you can purchase it via Google as well as its customary retail partners. It includes Best Buy, Target, The Home Depot, and others. The 4K device lacks native AV1 decoding capabilities, but the Chromecast HD’s SoC has. AV1 is open source, free of royalties, and more effective than the outdated H.264 standard for streaming high-quality video material.
It’s hardly surprising that Google is implementing native AV1 decoding. It starts with Chromecast with Google TV HD. Almost similar to YouTube, which has actively promoted it on hardware partners like Roku.
Last but not least, the cheaper model will actually launch with Android 12 rather than the 4K variant’s Android 10, and the 2020 Chromecast is still locked on Android 10. Google promises a “shortly” upcoming upgrade for the latter.
The main rivals of the Chromecast HD were the $29.99 Roku Express and Amazon’s entry-level $39.99 Fire TV Stick. There isn’t much of a price difference between these goods and the respective 4K versions each firm offers. But saving $20 might benefit the frugally inclined shopper who doesn’t care about anything related to the resolution.
Also read: 4 Smart Watch for Men & Women Who Love Tech
