Google Unveils New Google TV Streamer to Replace Chromecast
Google introduces the Google TV Streamer to replace Chromecast, offering enhanced features and AI capabilities. The Streamer supports over 800 channels and integrates smart home functionalities for improved user experience. Gemini powers AI features, providing personalised content recommendations and the ability to identify scenes from smart home video feeds.
The Google TV Streamer is a 4K set-top-box that promises enhancements over Chromecast's features. It doubles as a smart home hub, boasts a fresh design, and leverages AI to suggest content to users.
Similar to Chromecast, users can link their subscriptions to popular services like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV. Additionally, the Streamer will offer access to over 800 channels, expanding entertainment options for users.
The AI capabilities of the device are powered by Gemini, enabling users to access summaries and reviews of TV shows while making selections. Gemini will also personalise content recommendations across subscriptions based on users' viewing preferences and facilitate the creation of watchlists.
Google's new Streamer is notably larger than the Chromecast, designed to be a prominent feature on TV stands rather than hidden behind the screen. This size increase accommodates improved specifications, including 4GB of memory, 32GB of storage, HDMI 2.1, a 22% faster processor, and an ethernet port.
Moreover, the Streamer integrates smart home functionalities, supporting connectivity for the Matter standard and a Thread border router. This setup aims to simplify the connection of smart home devices from various manufacturers, promising faster response times and enhanced reliability.
A significant upgrade from Chromecast is the inclusion of the new Google Home panel. Users with video doorbells can now stream camera feeds on their TV, control lights, and adjust home temperatures – features long-awaited by Google Home users. The Home panel will also offer enhanced Nest Aware features.
Later this year, Gemini will gain the ability to identify specific scenes from smart home video feeds. For instance, users can ask questions like "did the kids leave their bikes in the driveway?" or "did my dog approach the cookies?" Nest Aware subscribers can expect these features in the Public Preview later this year.
The Google TV Streamer comes with a redesigned voice remote featuring a slimline profile, a textured back for better grip, a programmable button to launch preferred apps, and a chime option for locating the remote. Interested buyers can purchase the Google Streamer from the Google store starting September 24th for US$99.99.
Google introduces the Google TV Streamer to replace Chromecast, offering enhanced features and AI capabilities.
The Streamer supports over 800 channels and integrates smart home functionalities for improved user experience.
Gemini powers AI features, providing personalised content recommendations and the ability to identify scenes from smart home video feeds.
Source: FORBES