Google is retiring the Chromecast brand after 11 years and replacing it with a more powerful and expensive streaming device called the Google TV Streamer. This new device offers enhanced features including a faster processor, more RAM and storage, support for 4K at 60FPS, and integrated Google Gemini AI for personalized content recommendations and summaries. The Google TV Streamer is available for pre-order and will launch on September 24th for $99.99.
The new Google TV Streamer has a hidden feature that makes finding a lost remote much easier. A dedicated button on the back of the device triggers a sound from the remote, similar to Roku’s feature. This simple but valuable addition could make the Google TV Streamer a more appealing option for users.
Google appears to be releasing a new Chromecast with Google TV, but this time, it’s ditching the boxy design and adopting a sleek, circular form factor resembling a wireless charging pad. The device is expected to launch on August 13th, potentially hinting at new internals or a completely fresh approach to streaming.
Don’t miss out on the remarkable opportunity to own the colossal 100-inch Hisense U76 Series QLED TV at an incredible price of only $2,800. This exceptional TV boasts an impressive array of features that will redefine your home entertainment experience. With its stunning 4K resolution, immersive Dolby Atmos support, and the user-friendly Google TV smart interface, the Hisense U76 Series is the epitome of cinematic greatness. Additionally, gamers will delight in the exceptional performance and smooth visuals provided by its 4K/144Hz HDMI 2.1 ports and advanced motion technology.
The initial batch of Onn 4K Pro Streaming Devices came with a non-backlit remote control, while later devices had backlit remotes with a “Free TV” button. Walmart has confirmed that the backlit remote will eventually replace the non-backlit version. However, the key features of the remote (customizable star button, dedicated YouTube button, and remote-finder capability) remain the same across both versions.
Google has announced an update to Android TV, bringing the operating system to version 14. The update includes performance improvements, new energy modes, accessibility features, and improved multitasking. The update is expected to roll out to Android TV devices in the near future.
Walmart’s new Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device has stirred excitement as a potential rival to the aging Chromecast with Google TV. Despite being four years old, Chromecast with Google TV has faced criticism for its limited capabilities. The Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device, priced at $50, boasts improvements in several key areas, including a built-in microphone array for hands-free control, a customizable ‘Magic Button’ on the remote, and upgraded Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. Additionally, it offers increased RAM (3GB) and on-board storage (32GB), as well as support for USB-3 and Ethernet. While the device’s performance remains to be tested, its competitive features and budget-friendly price have generated intrigue among streaming enthusiasts. Whether it will prove to be a formidable competitor to Chromecast with Google TV or suffer from sluggish performance or cluttered software remains to be seen.
Hisense has unveiled its CanvasTV, a direct competitor to Samsung’s popular The Frame TV. The CanvasTV will be available in two sizes, 55 and 65 inches, and will start at $999 when it launches this summer. Like The Frame, the CanvasTV offers interchangeable frames and an ‘Art Mode’ that allows users to display high-resolution artwork when the TV is not in use. It features a 4K QLED panel with over a billion shades of color, a ‘Hi-Matte’ anti-glare layer, and a 144Hz refresh rate. The CanvasTV runs on Google TV and includes a multichannel 2.0.2 surround sound system.
The Nvidia Shield TV line, last refreshed in 2019, has been consistently ranked among the best Android TV devices. While we don’t know anything about an upcoming refresh, here are some features that we would like to see in a new Shield TV. These include an updated Tegra chip for increased performance, SDR to HDR upscaling, and an updated remote.
The Chromecast with Google TV Streaming Stick is a great alternative to Fire TV, offering many of the same benefits at a lower price. You can stream hot movies, your favorite TV shows, and live TV, all in 1080p HDR. The streaming is fast and has brighter colors and a clearer picture. The Chromecast with Google TV home screen offers personal recommendations based on what you subscribe to, watch, and own. You can also create a kids profile and set parental controls. The Google Assistant button on the remote allows you to search by mood, genre, actor, or specific shows. You can also control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and manage connected devices. The Chromecast with Google TV Streaming Stick is compatible with most TVs that have an HDMI port and can be easily installed by plugging it in and connecting to Wi-Fi.
