As expected, Google has also introduced the latest version of the popular Chromecast TV, which can add apps and many smart features to TVs. With an innovative remote control, support for the Google Assistant, 4K, and HDR capabilities, and a price of $50, Google wants to convince customers of the new GoogleTV dongle.
The Chrome TV dongle, originally codenamed “Sabrina”, has finally been officially launched under the name Chromecast with Google TV. Obviously, Google wants to compete directly with the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (from $49.99 on Amazon), because the new device can also display 4K HDR content at up to 60 frames per second, just like the counterpart from Amazon have had the Remote control a microphone, with which the Google Assistant can be addressed in this case.
The digital assistant can not only search for specific films and series but also recommend films. As you are used to from the Chromecast, content from compatible Android and iOS apps can still be transferred to the dongle. The connection to the television is via HDMI, the power supply via USB-C, the connection to the home network via Wi-Fi 802.11ac.
The highlight of the hardware is the brand new remote control, which is powered by two AAA batteries, and the Chromecast is connected via Bluetooth. In addition to a large D-Pad for navigation, there are also dedicated buttons for YouTube and Netflix, home and back buttons, a volume rocker on the side, and a power button.
The user interface of GoogleTV has also been fundamentally revised, content from all linked streaming services is now displayed on the home screen, so that, according to Google, you no longer have to switch between different apps to find your favorite series. The focus now is on recommendations based on history, purchased content, and linked subscriptions. Stadia’s support should follow in 2021.
Chromecast with Google TV price and availability
The brand new Chromecast with Google TV can now be pre-ordered from the Bhphotovideo.com and BestBuy.com online stores for $49.99. The dongle and the remote control are available in the Snow, Sunrise, and Sky color options.
