Google’s Chromecast lineup has largely focused on making it easier to watch your favorite content on the big screen. But with the new Google TV Streamer, that’s changing. Google finally has a “real” set-top box for streaming content, and it also supports a much wider range of smart home controls.
The biggest innovation of Google TV Streamer is that it has transformed from a simple device that plugs into a TV to a truly independent device that appears on the media console. With its “Wedge” design, Google TV Streamer blends in with the general decoration of the room, making it easier to control with a remote control. In addition, communication with other smart home devices is also easier.
It is also worth noting that Google has made a serious leap forward in hardware in the TV Streamer. Compared to the 2020 Google TV Chromecast, users are awaited by a 22 percent faster CPU, twice as much RAM (4 GB instead of 2 GB) and four cards more storage (32 GB).
These improvements may not seem like much. However, considering that the previous model had a lack of space for downloading online platform applications, it can be said that it is a needed improvement. The tablet, which comes with 4k 60 fps image support, also has HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and spatial sound support (when paired with Google Pixel Buds).
For those who want the most bandwidth, the Google TV Streamer also includes an HDMI 1.1 input, a powered USB-C port, and a dedicated Ethernet slot. Google has extended the length of the remote, moved the volume up/down button to the top, and added a customizable button that can be set to launch your favorite app, switch inputs, or call up the new smart home control center. There’s also a dedicated button on the remote for Google Assistant.
Google TV Streamer also offers a more advanced experience when it comes to smart home features. Not only does it support Matter, but it also has a built-in Thread border router to easily communicate with other devices in your home. What’s more, TV Streamer gets its own version of the Google Home panel (which we’ve seen on previous Pixel phones and Nest Hubs), making it easy to set up things like smart lights, while also allowing you to view feeds from your security cameras and video doorbells.
Google TV Streamer also has AI features. Thanks to Gemini, TV Streamer can create custom recommendations based on the type of content you watch, and for content you haven’t watched, it can produce summaries, reviews, or even season-by-season breakdowns. It also offers an ambient TV mode that lets you pull screensavers or memories from your Google Photos library. But if you want something a little more unique, you can also get AI to help you produce something fantastic. By the way, if you lose your remote, you can ask Google Assistant (not Gemini) to help you find it, or you can press the dedicated button on the back of the box.
How much should I pay for Google TV Streamer?
The Google TV Streamer is available for pre-sale for $100. The general sale period will begin on September 24. The TV Streamer’s “Hazel” color option will be sold exclusively on the Google Store. The Porcelain color option will be available elsewhere.