Google isn’t waiting for its upcoming hardware event to unveil the Chromecast’s successor. Today, the company introduces the Google TV Streamer, a $99.99 set-top box that significantly enhances the Chromecast with Google TV. With improved performance, Thread and Matter integration, and a new remote finder feature, the Google TV Streamer is set to boost home entertainment.
Introducing the Google TV streamer
Google is rolling out the Google TV Streamer alongside a new, sleeker Nest Thermostat. This device, priced at $99.99, is a substantial upgrade from the Chromecast with Google TV. It offers faster performance, integration with Thread and Matter, and convenient features like a remote finder.
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Additionally, the Google TV Streamer comes with a built-in ethernet jack and several Gemini AI enhancements, making it a more robust entertainment hub. The only drawback is that users will need to provide their own HDMI cable when it ships on September 24th.
Design and features
The Google TV Streamer boasts a low-profile, sloped design and is available in two colors: porcelain (white) and hazel (dark gray), with the latter being exclusive to the Google Store. Unlike the Chromecast, which could be hidden behind your TV, the Google TV Streamer is designed to sit beneath it and blend with your home decor. This design choice is intentional, as the device includes a Thread border router and supports Matter connectivity.
A standout feature is the ability to pull up a Google Home panel on the right side of the TV screen with a single button press on the remote. This functionality allows for easy control over smart home devices and cameras from your couch.
Enhanced performance and storage
At its core, the Google TV Streamer remains an entertainment device. Recognizing the demand for a more powerful device, Google has equipped it with a processor that is 22 percent faster, double the RAM, and 32GB of integrated storage. While this may still fall short of the Nvidia Shield TV and Apple TV 4K, it represents a significant improvement.
These enhancements aim to deliver a smoother user experience, preventing the lag and navigation issues seen in the previous Chromecast model. The device supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and users can continue to cast content to it as always. Notably, it is one of the first streaming devices powered via USB-C. Additional tech specs include HDMI 2.1a, Wi-Fi 5, gigabit ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.1.
Remote control upgrades
The bundled remote has been redesigned with usability in mind. The volume buttons are now on the face of the remote instead of the side, and a customizable button has been added. This button can be set to open the Google Home panel, launch a favorite streaming app, or switch HDMI inputs.
A remote finder button on the back of the Google TV Streamer emits a beeping sound, making it easy to locate a lost remote. The Google TV Streamer offers a choice of two neutral colors, and the remote has been enhanced for easier use, including a customizable button at the bottom right.
Smart software integration
On the software front, Google leverages Gemini AI to provide users with comprehensive summaries, reviews, and season-by-season breakdowns of content.
While the Google TV interface remains largely the same, offering personalized recommendations and Rotten Tomatoes scores, the new AI features add value. Users can also create generative AI screensavers in ambient mode, although this might be a novelty for many. The ambient mode can showcase Google Photos albums, which is likely to be a popular feature.
Anticipation for the release
With the introduction of the Google TV Streamer, Google aims to deliver a formidable competitor to the Apple TV 4K. Historically, Google has focused on value and price rather than performance. However, the new hardware upgrades and smart home features suggest that the company may have found the right formula this time.
Consumers will have to wait until September 24th to experience the Google TV Streamer for themselves. Priced at $99.99, this device is poised to make a significant impact in the streaming device market.
