Things to Know about Google TV Streamer: Price, Specifications, Features, and Release Date

Streaming devices come in various price points, just like Android smartphones. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is one of the more reasonably priced options, while the Apple TV 4K is one of the more expensive models. Before the release of the Google TV Streamer this year, Google lacked a high-end streaming device. Everything you need to know about Google’s most expensive streaming device is right here.

Google TV Streamer: Specifications and Design

The new Google TV streamer is stylish and has all the features you need.

You’ll notice right away that the Google TV Streamer appears different than previous Chromecasts. Instead of hiding behind the screen, the new device has a wedge-shaped set-top box form factor that fits neatly beneath your TV, marking a substantial shift from the typical dongle design. Both porcelain and hazel finishes are available, albeit only the Google Store offers the Hazel option.

It fits practically any place because of its small and simple design. A USB-C port, an HDMI 2.1 port, and an Ethernet port for wired internet access are located around the rear. However, you will need to buy an HDMI cable separately because the TV streamer does not come with one in the box. Nonetheless, a power adapter and a USB-A to USB-C cable are included in the package.

The remote control was improved. It still has the same battery-powered design and shape, but it has dedicated volume controls now instead of the Google Assistant button. There is a new customized star button that you may map to your favorite app, most-used input, or the smart home control panel in addition to the standard Netflix and YouTube shortcut buttons.

The most notable feature, though, is that the remote is compatible with Google’s Find My Device network, which allows you to find it using your Android phone’s Find My Device app.

Although Google has not formally announced it, the MediaTek MT8696 chipset powers the Google TV Streamer. The performance of this chipset is 22% faster than that of its predecessor. With 4GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, the TV streamer operates quickly and fluidly. There are Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 5 built-in for wireless connectivity.

Google TV Streamer: Software

Familiar interface with smart upgrades.

With a familiar and easy-to-use interface, the Google TV Streamer comes pre-installed on Android TV OS. Google TV compiles content from a variety of streaming services and makes tailored suggestions depending on your subscriptions and viewing preferences. Google TV Freeplay on the TV Streamer allows you to watch free channels, while the Play Store gives you access to hundreds of apps.

The TV Streamer has AI features since it is a Google product from 2024. Gemini offers season breakdowns, reviews, and brief summaries of content. You can also use generative AI to make your own screensaver.

Google also transformed the TV streamer into a smart home hub. It has a dedicated Google Home panel and serves as a central hub for devices that are compatible with Matter and Thread. This enables you to check security cameras, change the thermostat, and adjust lights all from the comfort of your couch.

Google TV Streamer: Audio and video quality

Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos provide the best possible audio and video quality.

The Google TV Streamer, Google’s most expensive streaming device, offers remarkable audiovisual performance with support for 4K HDR resolution at 60 frames per second. It is future-proof for your next smart TV because it supports multiple HDR formats, such as Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG.

Regarding audio, the gadget offers three-dimensional sound through Dolby Atmos support. When used with appropriate sound systems, this feature is extremely helpful in providing home theater-quality audio. Additionally, you may use the TV Streamer to wirelessly enjoy spatial audio if you have a set of Pixel Buds Pro 2.

Google TV Streamer: Price and release date

A little more expensive, but still a strong competitor.

On August 6, 2024, Google made the TV Streamer public, and pre-orders went live right away. But it wasn’t until September 24, 2024, more than a month and a half after its unveiling, that the gadget was formally put on sale.

Although there are occasionally bargains, the Google TV Streamer costs $100, which is double the price of its predecessor, the Chromecast with Google TV. Major shops including Best Buy, Target, and the Google Store offer the device for sale both in-person and online. When placing an order via Google’s online store, you can select between the colors Porcelain and Hazel.

The best Google TV streaming box yet

Although Google has stopped producing Chromecasts, the Google TV Streamer is a great substitute for anyone searching for a high-performing Android TV box with superior audiovisual quality and integrated artificial intelligence features.

The TV Streamer is more expensive than its predecessor, but it has enough power to last for years. This gadget offers fierce competition to competing streaming boxes for those who would rather stay in the Google ecosystem.