1 min readGoogle is ending the era of the Chromecast with the introduction of the new Google TV Streamer.
As those keeping score when it comes to streaming hubs might expect, the Google TV Streamer builds on the formula laid out by 2020's Chromecast with Google TV. Like that device, the hardware here features a minimalist design, a low profile and plenty of rounded corners. It also comes in two colours: Hazel and Porcelain. Regardless of which one you pick, you'll have to bring your own HDMI cable.
For Google at least, the TV Streamer represents the end of the road when it comes to dongle-powered accessories. Instead, the setup here is more-or-less akin to an Apple TV 4K. It's a set-top box by any other name. That's a pretty big change, but it's far from the only one.
The processor inside the Google TV Streamer is said to be around 22 per cent faster than the one in its predecessor, with double memory, 32GB of onboard storage and a redesigned remote control. Other specs include support for Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, WiFi 5, HDMI 2.1a and Bluetooth 5.1.
Thread and Matter integration is also included, which promises to complement the dedicated Google Home panel built into the user interface for the unit. In addition, the Google TV Streamer comes with a few new AI-powered features. The list here includes generative AI screensavers, dynamically generated season-by-season summaries, and breakdowns of content you're considering viewing.
Apart from that though, the software experience here looks very much of a kind with the one found on the Chromecast with Google TV.
Google's new streaming hub has yet to get an official Australian price tag or release date. However, Google Australia representatives have confirmed to Reviews.org that the device is on its way to Australian consumers.
