After several years without an update, the Google TV Streamer is set to replace the old Chromecast dongle – which has changed its form factor design after 11 years in service.
Google’s next streaming device is taking a different route with upgrades to device storage and functionality tweaks being among them. The Google TV Streamer is a 4K set-top-box valued at $99, which is more expensive than the previous Chromecast model.
The pill-shaped device will be available in Porcelain (white), while those in the US will be able to get their hands on the exclusive Hazel (dark green) model. It should be noted that both colours are meant to be neutral to match your home setup. The device maintains a small-factor design allowing users to keep it hidden with easy-to-hide wires.
Aside from the colour choices, which are quite limited, to be honest. The Google TV Streamer comes with HDMI 2.1, Ethernet (supporting – 10/100/1000 Mbps), and a USB C port for power. The streamer is powered by a 22% faster CPU with 4 GB of RAM more than the 2020 model including 32 GB of storage (for a 4x increase).
The streamer supports 4K HDR at 60 FPS with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Spatial Audio is available on supported content when you pair Pixel Buds Pro. Video (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG) and audio (Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos) formats are supported as well as including Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz), and a Thread radio for direct smart home communication.
Much as the Google Chromecast fans are pleased with the update, the question remains whether it’s worth upgrading to given the other choices on the market right now offering much more features.
Should you get a Google TV Streamer?
Some of the obvious complaints users online are hinting at the new Google TV Streamer is the limited hardware specs and pricing of the device. In the previous models, many have complained about them being laggy and slow making them unbearable to use when streaming content which is all due to the limited storage and poor performance.
Most users expected Google to learn from its past mistakes and make drastic changes to its upcoming model but it turns out not many are impressed. However, on the bright side, most users say the reason why they kept using the Chromecast was due to its simplicity in design, menu system and remote design.

Some of the users online claimed that they got so frustrated with their previous CWGTV setups they switched to other services such as Apple TV 4K which is more responsive, fast and with WiFi 6 connectivity even though it is $30 more expensive.
Software updates
In addition to the change of design and hardware upgrades, Google TV will show Gemini Overviews on content listings, like “What’s it about,” “What people are saying,” and “What to know.” It can provide “full summaries, reviews and season-by-season breakdowns of content.” Another generative AI feature is the ability to generate custom screensavers that match your home.
The Google TV Streamer (4K) costs $99, which is $50 more compared to the 2020 Chromecast. Once purchased, the box is expected to have a Google TV Streamer, Voice Remote (with 2 colour-matched AAA batteries included), USB-A power adapter, and USB-C to USB-A power cable (1.8 m). No HDMI cable is included.
Pre-orders on the Google Store and Amazon began a few days ago with availability set for September 24 this year.
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