Google may have discontinued the Chromecast but Thomson is preparing to launch a spiritual successor that closely resembles it in both form and function.
The Cast 150 was unveiled late last week in Vienna, Austria, as a new affordable 4K HDR streaming dongle from Thomson.
FlatpanelsHD was on site in Vienna and will soon publish more details – and a full review – but here is what we know so far.
Thomson's 'Chromecast'
The Thomson Cast 150 bears a strong resemblance to the Chromecast with Google TV, which Google has discontinued in favor of the newer and more expensive Google TV Streamer.
Also read: Review: Google TV Streamer
The Thomson Cast 150 and its remote. Photo: FlatpanelsHD
It runs Google TV with access to apps from the Google Play Store, including the Apple TV app, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and Netflix. It supports 4K up to 60fps with HDR10 (but not Dolby Vision) and Dolby Atmos.
It is powered by a quad-core A35 processor paired with 2GB of RAM. The specifications mention 8GB of storage but Thomson stated at the event that it features 16GB – we are seeking confirmation.
The remote control features more buttons than Google's version, including the new 'Live TV' button that we reported on earlier this month.
It runs Google TV – just like the Chromecast with Google TV – and has been approved for Netflix and other major services. Photo: Thomson
Coming later this year
The Cast 150 was a surprise reveal last week in Vienna. It expands Thomson's lineup of media players, which was recently expanded by the more powerful Streaming Box Plus 270.
Thomson did not share official details on pricing or launch timing but told FlatpanelsHD that it is aiming for a Q3 launch in Europe, priced around 60-75 Euro, including a 3-year warranty.
Thomson Cast 150 – specifications
FlatpanelsHD
