Chromecast is no more. Google has now launched Google TV Streamer, a new device that replaces it for the next-generation 4K TVs that’s faster and makes use of Google Gemini AI features.
Google TV Streamer functions for both streaming as well as serves as a smart home hub for Google Home and Matter devices. With the device, you can access content from popular streaming services, including YouTube TV, Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV and more, in addition to live TV with 800+ free channels.
Google AI is incorporated into the mix, making it easier to find what you want to watch next through curated content suggestions across all your subscriptions, all conveniently located in one place. You can build watchlists with individual recommendations for each person in the home. With Gemini, you lso get full summaries, reviews, and season-by-season breakdowns of TV shows.
With ambient mode, you can display works of art on an idle TV. Use your voice to pull up favourite memories from Google Photos or create unique and personalized screensaver art with generative AI. Use voice commands to dictate what you want to see, or have Google provide a guided experience.
Google TV Streamer has an improved processor, double the memory, and 32GB of storage for faster app load times and smoother navigation than previous generation Chromecast. With 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, you also get a better picture with compatible subscriptions.
Connect Google TV Streamer to a Wi-Fi network, or use an ethernet port for faster, buffer-free streaming. The unit is now also designed to sit in front of the TV rather than remain tucked behind it.
Google TV Streamer has connectivity support for Matter along with a built-in Thread border router, a technology that allows you to quickly and safely connect smart home devices like locks and motion sensors.
The Google Home panel can now appear on your big screen through Google TV streamer. Use this to do things like check on compatible security cameras, like a Nest Doorbell, adjust lights and temperature, open or close the blinds, and more. It automatically syncs with the Google Home app and works with millions of devices, including the new Nest Learning Thermostat.
Additionally, you can cast connect from a connected smartphone, add Google TV Streamer to speaker groups, and control music directly from the TV.
Google TV Streamer is available in Porcelain and Hazel (exclusively available only in the U.S. Google Store) and comes with a redesigned voice remote that Google says it easier and more comfortable to hold with improved ergonomics, like a textured back for better grip and an optimized button layout to fit hands of all sizes. You can also program its new customizable button to immediately open your favourite app, switch inputs, or launch the Google Home panel with a click.
Use your voice not only to search but also to find your lost remote. Ask your nearest Google Assistant-enabled speaker or Pixel phone for help by saying, “Hey Google, find my remote,” and the remote will beep. You can also press the button on the back of your Google TV Streamer or from the Google Home app to chime the remote, too.
Google TV Streamer is available for pre-order and will start shipping on September 24 for $129 in Canada.