No, a new Chromecast didn’t just go through the FCC

A Google “wireless streaming device” went through the FCC on Thursday, which many interpreted to mean a new Chromecast is on the way, but it doesn’t appear to be.

On Thursday morning, the model number “GJQ9T” appeared at the FCC for approval as a “Wireless Streaming Device”. Given that last year’s Chromecast appears at the FCC in August, this sparked rumors that we might see another Chromecast released later this year. So let’s take a closer look at this new Google device and see what it’s actually for.

First, on the same day the new FCC listing appeared, Google announced a new Nest Doorbell, along with three unique Nest Cam designs. Despite launching four devices, we have so far only seen three relevant lists arrive at the FCC for approval – in March, June, and now August – suggesting there may be another list to come.

Then nowadays the word “streaming” conjures up the image of enjoying movies, music or even games from an online service, but any video sent from one device to another via the Internet or your local network could be considered “streaming.

At that time, in March, another Google’s “Wireless Streaming Device” has appeared at the FCC. At the time, we highlighted the Nest camera line that Google promised to launch this year. Notably, this week’s and March’s FCC listings appear to be nearly identical, with the main difference being that the new listing doesn’t mention a battery.

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The similarities extend to the wireless bands used – both models use identical Bluetooth and Wi-Fi bands – and even the physical FCC tag on the device. Both “wireless streaming devices” have an FCC tag that is placed on the back and appear to be very similar in shape.

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Putting it all together, it seems all too clear that Google is not (yet) preparing to launch a new Chromecast device. Instead, we’re probably looking at another piece of the 2021 Nest camera lineup, which we should be able to somehow confirm when the cameras start arriving at customers.

Since the new wired cameras are both ready to ship later than the new Nest Cam (battery operated) and the Nest Doorbell, this week’s GJQ9T listing is likely either the Nest Cam (wired) or the Nest Floodlight.

Last year, Google launched the new Chromecast as a starting point for the Android TV-based “Google TV” experience. While the Chromecast with Google TV managed to hit the mark with its $ 50 price tag, some were longing for a Made by Google device with a bit more processing power and more storage. Unfortunately, we still have a bit of a wait for an improved model.

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