Google has introduced a new TV set-top box, Google TV Streamer. The new product is priced at $99.99 and will go on sale on September 24. The device replaces the Chromecast series of TV set-top boxes that Google will no longer produce. Google TV Streamer differs from its predecessor not only in its form factor (it is no longer a USB dongle, but a desktop media console), but also in the presence of new features, including built-in Gemini AI.
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Google TV Streamer is equipped with a LAN connector, which makes it a more effective entertainment hub compared to its predecessor. However, the new set-top box is connected not via USB, but via an HDMI 2.1 cable, which must be purchased separately.
Google TV Streamer will be offered in two colors: white and dark gray. The latter option will be available exclusively through the Google Store. Unlike the Chromecast TV box, which could be hidden behind the TV, Google TV Streamer is designed to live next to or under it. The change in form factor is due to the presence of a built-in border router with support for Thread networks, as well as support for the Matter connection standard for smart home devices. The set-top box is equipped with a Google Home digital console, which provides access to control all smart home devices.
Support for Thread networks significantly increases the relevance of Google TV Streamer, which slows down its obsolescence. But at its core, Google TV Streamer is still an entertainment gadget. Google reports that the new product is significantly more productive than its predecessor. Google TV Streamer uses a processor that is 22% more powerful than the chip used in Chromecast. The new product is unlikely to reach the performance of Nvidia Shield TV or Apple TV 4K, but progress is obvious. Google TV Streamer also received twice as much RAM (4 GB) and 32 GB of storage.
Google TV Streamer claims to support 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. It supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos technologies. As before, you can connect external signal sources to it. The set-top box is also equipped with a USB-C port, an HDMI 2.1 connector, a gigabit LAN, and supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1.
The remote control included with the Google TV Streamer set-top box looks similar to its predecessor, but has also undergone some design changes. For example, volume control buttons are now on the front of the device rather than on the side. There is also a multifunctional customizable button. You can set it, for example, to open the Google Home console above or launch your favorite video streaming service.
The Google TV Streamer set-top box itself has a search button on the back side. When you press it, the control panel lost in the depths of the sofa will emit a sound signal.
The aforementioned Gemini AI integration provides users with “summaries, reviews, and seasonal content breakdowns” as they watch. Otherwise, the console features the same Android TV OS interface as before, with personalized recommendations as well as explanations in the form of movie ratings on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. AI can also create digital screensavers in Ambient mode. In the same mode, the TV box can also display photos from Google Photos.