(Image source from: Twitter.com/9to5Google)
Google is discontinuing another product. Chromecast is dead. It appears that Google is abandoning the Chromecast dongle and opting for a set-top box design instead. This was first reported by 9To5Google and if you look at the image shared, you can see a shiny white box with two wires attached to the back. This device features a sloping roof that matches the aesthetic design of Google's latest hardware. The image also shows a white remote that resembles modern Chromecast devices, with a round dial at the top for navigation and other settings and shortcut buttons at the bottom. Google has yet to confirm this, but it appears to be called “Google TV Streamer.” For those unfamiliar, Google Chromecast is a streaming device that plugs into your TV's HDMI port and allows users to stream content from your smartphone, tablet, or computer directly to your TV. By connecting to the same Wi-Fi network, users can stream videos, music, and other media from apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify. Chromecast offers a simple and affordable way to turn your standard TV into a Smart TV, allowing you to seamlessly stream and share digital content on your big screen. Combined with Google Assistant, it also supports voice commands for added convenience and functionality.
The current Google Chromecast supports 4K resolution for high-quality streaming and is powered by an efficient Amlogic S905X5 processor with 2GB of RAM. The device offers 8 GB of internal memory for applications and system functions. Additionally, the Chromecast remote was recently redesigned and now features a pill-shaped design with a D-pad, additional buttons, a new adjustable magic button, and a forward volume button. The device runs on Android TV 14 and comes with new features like quick pairing, improved audio output switcher and home screen settings. Additionally, the processor supports the AV1 codec for more efficient video playback and offers greater compatibility with devices such as the Pixel tablet and integration with platforms such as TikTok. When it comes to the Google TV Streamer, one can only hope that Google plays a pioneering role. However, it will be interesting to see how Google manages to do this while keeping the price at least as good as the Chromecast, which currently sells for under Rs 10,000 in India.
The product, called Google TV Streamer, will be unveiled at the Pixel event on August 13, where the company will also unveil its flagship Pixel devices. This version includes Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. In addition, Google could also unveil the new Pixel Watch 3 and Google Buds Pro 2 at the event. Some big AI announcements are also expected based on this teaser. Interestingly, this is the first time that Google is bringing the Pixel Fold to the Indian market.
(Video Source: 9to5Google)
