Google is saying goodbye to its beloved Chromecast device, which was first released more than ten years ago. The tech behemoth is replacing it with a brand-new streaming device called the Google TV Streamer, which will go up against the likes of Nvidia Shield, Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire Stick.
Google unveiled the Google TV Streamer today, a $100 AI-enabled gadget that will be on sale the following month. In contrast to the Chromecast, the new gadget has an elegant, contemporary look. It is elegant and strong, and comes in hazel green and porcelain white.
Internally, Google has packed the device with advanced technology. It boasts Gemini AI for enhanced content overviews and streamlined summaries, reviews, and descriptions. The new streamer offers faster load times and smoother performance, with memory doubled to 4GB and storage quadrupled to 32GB.
The Google TV Streamer is set to be a central hub for smart home devices. It supports Matter and Google Home-compatible devices, allowing users to control lighting, climate, and cameras directly from their TV screen. Additionally, Nest cameras will integrate seamlessly, offering more descriptive captions and annotations for video clips. Users can search camera history using natural language prompts, making it easier to find specific events.
Google Assistant receives an AI-powered upgrade, promising a more natural conversational experience with improved pacing and cadence. This updated Assistant maintains context throughout conversations, enabling more intuitive follow-up questions.
The device also includes a much-requested Ethernet port, providing more stable streaming for users with Wi-Fi issues. The remote has been redesigned for better grip, with volume buttons moved to the front and a programmable button for quick access to third-party apps.
Priced at $100, the Google TV Streamer is double the cost of the current 4K Chromecast but remains competitive compared to the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Apple TV 4K. Pre-orders opened on Tuesday, with the device hitting stores on September 24.
This launch signifies the end of an era for Chromecast, a product line that sold over 100 million units globally since its debut in 2013. While Google will continue selling existing Chromecast models while supplies last, production has ceased, and these older devices will soon join the list of discontinued Google products.