Google TV Streamer replaces Chromecast as a faster, more premium streaming box with 4K Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos Atmos, Gemini, Matter and Thread.

Many details about Google's new streaming device had already leaked but today Google officially announced the Google TV Streamer, which will launch next month for $100.

- "It replaces Chromecast, bringing its best features to our next-generation 4K TV streaming device — but as a faster, more premium version," said Christina Cao, Product Manager, Google Nest. "Complete with the best of Google TV, Google TV Streamer doubles as a smart home hub for your Google Home and Matter devices. It also has a sleek design that fits right into your home’s decor without standing out."


 Google TV Streamer. Photo: Google

Bigger, faster, more storage
The Google TV Streamer is bigger and looks more like a compact box than the Chromecast dongle that it replaces.

The company said that it features "an improved processor, double the memory and 32GB of storage for faster app load times and smoother navigation than previous generation Chromecast". The older Chromecast was often criticized for its sluggish performance and low storage capacity, but it is currently unclear if Google TV Streamer will feel like a significant upgrade as the processor is only 22% faster, according to Google.

It still features 4K, HDR10, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos sound. It also supports HDR10+.


 It is Android-powered with the Google TV user interface. Photo: Google

In addition, Google TV Streamer now comes with a built-in Ethernet port in addition to WiFi 5.

Google claims that it features an HDMI 2.1a port, but it is unclear what it is referring to as it is still limited to HDMI 2.0-bandwidth, i.e. 4K 60Hz. None of the optional HDMI 2.1 features (ALLM, eARC etc) are mentioned.


Matter, Thread, Google Home
Google said that the box doubles as a smart hub home, and for this purpose it features a built-in Thread border router and Matter support.

Matter is the new common smart home connectivity standard also supported by Amazon, Apple, Samsung and others while thread is a low-power networking protocol that connects newer smart home devices in a mesh network.

It is all brought together in a new Google Home panel that can be accessed from the control center. From here, you can also control music in your house directly from the big screen.



- "The home panel lets you check your cameras (see who's there when your Nest Doorbell rings!), adjust the lights and temperature, close the blinds and more — without leaving your couch. It automatically syncs with your Google Home app, so it works with millions of devices, like the new Nest Learning Thermostat," said Christina Cao.


A refreshed remote control
The remote control has been refreshed with volume controls on the top (instead of the side), a textured back, and a customizable button in addition to two sponsored buttons.


 The refreshed remote control has two sponsored button plus a customizable button. Photo: Google

There is a 'Find My Remote' feature that can be activated via voice or a press of a button on the back of the box.

In addition, Google said that it now uses AI to curate content suggestions on the homescreen while it uses Gemini voice technology to help you get summaries, reviews, and more. You can also use Gemini voice commands to generate personal screensaver art.

The Google TV Streamer will be available starting September 24 for $100.

Google TV Streamer – specifications
Dimensions and weight
Length: 6.4 in
Width: 3.0 in
Height: 1.0 in
Weight: 5.7 oz

Resolution
Up to 4K HDR,1 60 FPS

Video formats
Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG

Audio formats
Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos

Connectivity
Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
Bluetooth® 5.1

Memory
4 GB

Storage
32 GB

Ports
USB-C (power/data)
HDMI 2.1 (Type A)
Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps)

Operating system
Android TV OS

Smart home connectivity
Matter
Thread border router
 FlatpanelsHD