Google announced the Google TV Streamer, a new premium 4K streaming device priced at $99.99, designed to compete with high-end streaming devices like Apple TV 4K and Roku Ultra, offering faster performance, improved features, and a redesigned interface.
The TV Streamer supports 4K at 60 frames per second, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, spatial audio, and has amenities like an Ethernet port, 32GB of built-in storage, and a faster processor (22% faster CPU, more RAM) than previous models. It also includes a built-in Thread border router for improved connectivity.
The device offers enhanced search capabilities with Gemini AI, providing curated recommendations, show summaries, reviews, and season breakdowns based on streaming subscriptions and preferences. It integrates with Google Photos and supports features like ambient mode and spatial audio.
The Google TV Streamer functions as an entertainment device and smart home hub, integrating with Google Home and Matter to control various smart home devices through voice commands and routines. It also serves as a control panel for viewing security cameras and receiving alerts from appliances.
The device has a wireless remote with improved grip, programmable buttons, and a function to search for lost remotes. It supports voice commands.
The Google TV Streamer is scheduled for release on September 24, with preorders starting earlier. Google plans to eventually phase out the Chromecast in favor of the TV Streamer,but will continue to support existing Chromecast devices with updates. Google may introduce a cheaper, HD-only version of the new set-top box in the future.
The Chromecast brand will be available while supplies last, but newer devices like the Chromecast with Google TV will continue receiving software and security updates.
While the TV Streamer supports a wide range of apps and over 800 free channels, its $100 price point may be a barrier for those who only stream in HD, and it lacks appeal to the gaming market.
Google has also unveiled the new Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with a new design inspired by the Pixel Watch, featuring a slimmer, more premium look, a larger screen, rotating metal dial, and made with recycled materials. It supports Matter, has a dynamic farsight feature showing weather and temperature, and comes with a redesigned Nest Temperature Sensor for better whole-home temperature tracking. It is available for pre-order at $279.99 in the U.S.
Sources: Mobile Time, Business Insider, Wired, Ars Technica, Forbes, USA Today, CNN, CNET, The Verge, Engadget, PCMag, TechCrunch, TechRadar, Mashable, Gizmodo, ZDNet.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
