Today, Google launches the Google TV Streamer. It’s replacing the Google Chromecast, but also gains several new features. It will be a lot more similar to the Apple TV when we look into the features of the TV Streamer. With support for Matter and Tread, it will enable users to use it as a Smart Home hub, like the Google Nest 2. It’s available for $99.99/ÂŁ99.99/€119.99 on Amazon (United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, The Nederlands).
The product page of the Google TV Streamer on Amazon.com (United States) is currently unavailable, but with the link provided you are still able to add it to your cart and order the product.
Features
Unlike the Chromecast, the Google TV Streamer is no longer a simple HDMI stick. Instead, it is a standalone device that can sit in front of your TV, and it includes an Ethernet port for a more stable internet connection. Here are the key features:
- Resolution: 4K HDR, 60 FPS
- Support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG
- Dolby Atmos support
- WiFi, Ethernet and Bluetooth
- 4GB RAM
- 32Gb storage
- USB-C port for power and data
- Smart Home hub with Matter and Thread Border Router
- HDMI 2.1 (cable not included)
- Updated Remote with favourites button
The Google TV Streamer will be shipped with a USB-C to USB-A cable, a power adapter, remote and 2 AAA-batteries.
Smart Home hub
In addition to streaming content and playing music like its predecessor, the Chromecast, the Google TV Streamer boasts a faster processor and increased storage, making it better equipped for handling apps. A new feature includes a button on the back of the device that will help you locate the remote by making it ring.
Perhaps the most significant upgrade is the Google TV Streamer’s smart home functionality. It now supports both Matter and Thread, two essential protocols for smart home connectivity. This allows direct integration of Matter-over-Thread devices with the Google TV Streamer, linking them to Google Home.
This functionality is similar to that of the Google Nest Hub 2, but the Google TV Streamer might appeal to a broader audience, including those who don’t yet own smart home devices. By including these protocols, the TV Streamer could bring a Matter-compatible smart home hub into more households, lowering the barrier to start with smart home products. No separate hub is required to connect devices to Google Home, simplifying the process. However, the price is notably higher than the Google Chromecast, raising questions about whether it will achieve the same level of household adoption as its predecessor.
Availability and price
The Google TV Streamer is available immediately in the Google Store and on Amazon (United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, The Nederlands) for $99.99/£99.99/€119.99.
