TCL launches 5 and 6 series TVs powered by Google TV

TCL is the first brand of Roku TV since it first partner with the streaming platform in 2014, but on Tuesday the company announced it was expanding its horizons, especially with Google, which will feed the new versions of its 5 and 6 series models.

TCL recently showcased its latest offerings at an in-person briefing in New York City, and the new line looks gorgeous, with notable improvements over previous installments. As with the Roku models, the main differentiator between the 5 and 6 Series always seems to be that the 6 Series is slightly more sophisticated, with TCL’s pioneering mini-LED backlight technology and four HDMI ports (the 5 Series n ‘into only three). Gamers will also be especially excited to learn that the new 6 Series with Google TV will be capable of 4K at 120Hz, which outperforms the Roku model at 120Hz at 1440p, and will also be equipped with the THX Certified Game Mode. The new models will support both HDR10 Plus—A new HDR format that offers higher levels of brightness and contrast — and will be equipped with QLED technology to provide greater brightness and a rich, rich color palette.

Other than that, it’s the same: Google TVs will also be billed the same as last year’s. Powered by Roku Series 5 and Series 6, with Google TCL Series 5 TVs starting at $ 599 for 50 inches and going all the way up to $ 1,299 at 75 inches. Google TCL Series 6 TVs start at $ 999 for 55 inches and go all the way up to $ 1,799 for 75 inches.

While there is no 8K model supported by Google just yet, there is at least some encouraging news for anyone looking to write off theaters entirely during a global pandemic that still rages on: Reps of TCL said the company was working on a Google TV-powered version of its flagship 85-inch QLED for its XL collection, which includes screens 85-inch and larger. This model is expected to roll out later this month, although exact pricing and release information is not yet available.

The Google TV interface on the new 5 and 6 Series is clean and intuitive, and comes equipped with a For You tab that algorithmically generates a list of content that users might enjoy and a watchlist that syncs with your phone so you can record TV recommendations on the fly. In addition to making it easier to find shows, a voice-activated Google Assistant button on the remote has smart home integrations that can help users check their security cameras, weather, etc. as well as the traffic conditions for their morning trips. Apparently aware of the Google Assistant’s potential to scare away privacy-conscious customers concerned about eavesdropping, the brand has also provided a manual switch, which viewers can use to physically mute the microphone.

Chris Larson, TCL’s senior vice president for North America, said that far from abandoning its partnership with Roku, the company is excited to continue offering consumers both options in the future, especially at a As forced shutdowns and the threat of another endless quarantine have more and more users clamoring for home entertainment options.

“Pairing our high-performance hardware with the user-friendly, content-focused Google TV was an easy decision for us as we both put user needs first,” Larson said in a press release. . “From their robust library to hands-free voice assistance and smart home control, Google’s intuitive entertainment platform is the perfect addition to our TCL sets. “

The new Google TV line is currently available for pre-order from Best Buy.