Streaming sticks and dongles have long dominated the media industry. Tech companies like google have promoted the convenience of these devices, which disappear neatly behind your TV.
However, leaked details suggest Google is taking a different approach. They’re reportedly returning to the traditional set-top box design, a style less common today.
9to5Google first reported on this new device, claiming it will have features not found in the current Chromecast.
But is this set-top box real? And when will it be released? We’ll answer those questions below.
When will TV Streamer release?
The leaks haven’t revealed a release date for the Google TV Streamer. The next “Made by Google” event is on August 13th. We expect to see the Pixel 9 series, a new watch, and a foldable phone.
There’s a chance Google might unveil the TV Streamer at this event too. It’s been four years since the last model, and rumors have just started. However, it could still be early in development. We’ll know more on August 13th.
How much will the TV Streamer cost?
No fees were announced within the Google tv Streamer leaks. But, we will have a look at the launch charges of past media gadgets from the brand for reference:
- Chromecast with Google TV – £59/$49
- Chromecast Ultra – £69/$70
- Chromecast 3rd-gen (2018) – £30/$35
- Chromecast 2nd-gen (2015) – £30/$35
- Chromecast 1st-gen (2013) – £30/$35
What are the specs of TV Streamer?
Design
The leaked Google TV Streamer is shaped like a slanted pill and comes in white. It’s a set-top box, unlike previous Chromecast devices which had different colors. We can see two wires at the back, likely for power and HDMI.
The device’s flat shape should allow it to fit under most TVs or in TV stands. It won’t be completely hidden, but Google doesn’t seem worried about this.
The new remote is longer than previous models. The volume control has moved to the front, and there’s a new customizable magic/star button. The remote also has power and home buttons, a microphone, and shortcuts for Netflix and YouTube.
Features
A new report from 9to5Google’s claims the upcoming Google TV Streamer will include Ethernet and USB ports. This information comes from Quanta Computer, the manufacturer of devices like the Pixelbook and Pixelbook Go.
With an Ethernet port, the streamer can offer a stable wired internet connection, similar to the Chromecast Ultra. Additionally, the USB port allows users to connect other compatible devices. The box also allegedly has the following radio signals:
- Bluetooth
- Thread
- Wi-Fi 5GHz 802.11a/n/ac
- Wi-Fi 2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n
The latter will allow you to hook up with different gadgets which have Google Assistant for your property ecosystem, without the want for a hub. The Pixel nine gadgets are also rumoured to be coming with Thread radio.
Other specification rumours have not yet surfaced, so we don’t understand what streaming satisfactory it’s going to guide, what processor it will run on or how much RAM/storage can be blanketed. For reference, the current Chromecast with Google’s tv runs on an Amlogic S905X3 CPU and has 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage.
Considering Google is changing the scale of the device extensively, we’d assume these specifications to be beefed up slightly.
Software
- This device likely runs on the latest Google TV OS.
- It offers AI recommendations for shows and movies.
- The OS supports Android 14 for TV and has new icons.
- Expect a clean interface that syncs with your Google account.
- It supports a wide range of streaming and entertainment apps.
Discover the full guide about Google Maps for Wear OS get a tile redesign
Will Google ditch the Chromecast?
If 9to5Google’s claims are accurate, sure. The Google’s television Streamer will replace the cutting-edge Chromecast with Google’s tv. However, many of these products are usually still available from third-birthday celebration retailers for a little at the same time as after new generations are released.