Google has made it official. Here is the new low-end Chromecast with Google TV that supports up to 1080p with HDR10 and HDR10+. Available now for $30, £35 and €40.
Google has just launched its sixth video Chromecast. Unlike the first four this one has a full user interface – just like the last one. With Google TV, the new user interface on top of Android TV, users have access to over 10,000 apps, the company said.
Available apps include Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV app, Disney+, HBO Max and Netflix. In addition, you get the classic Chromecast functionality that lets you cast content from a smartphone, tablet or PC onto the TV screen as well as other Google features such as Stadia, Assistant and Google Home support.
- "Today, we’re expanding this lineup with the new Chromecast with Google TV (HD). We built this product with affordability in mind and to help bring all our favorite features of Chromecast and Google TV to more people than ever," announced Google.
The new Chromecast supports up to 1080p resolution in SDR, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG as well as Dolby Atmos passthrough.
Chromecast with Google TV (HD). Photo: Google
AV1 but only 8GB of storage
At $30, it is a more affordable option than the existing 4K version, which costs $35. It has the same design and remote control. It replaces the 3rd Gen Chromecast (without Google TV) and meant to compete with FireTV and Roku sticks.
It is not a big saving but you are getting a few extra features over the 4K version such as pre-installed Android 12 and support for AV1 video decoding. Android 12 introduces frame rate matching for stutter-free video playback but it is unclear if it works on the new Chromecast.
On the other hand, the new Chromecast HD still offers only 8GB of internal storage part of which is reserved for system software and apps.
Google is pushing its partners to increase storage capacity to a minimum of 16GB starting with Android 13 so launching a new device with only 8GB of storage is a little controversial, even if it only runs Android 12. Android on TV has a storage problem and Google should lead the way in solving it.
Chromecast with Google TV (HD) is available now for $30 in the US, £35 in the UK, €40 in Germany, and similar prices in other regions.
Chromecast with Google TV (HD) – specifications
| Resolution
Up to 1080p HDR, 60 FPS
Dimensions and weight
Length: 6.4 in (162.5 mm)
Width: 2.4 in (61 mm)
Height: 0.5 in (12.5 mm)
Weight: 1.9 oz (55 g)
Colors
Snow
Video formats
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
Audio formats
Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos via HDMI passthrough
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
Bluetooth®
Ports
HDMI to plug directly into the TV
USB Type-C power
Operating system
Android TV OS |
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