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Google updates its $ 35 Chromecast dongle with new design and better performance, but no 4K video.
The third generation of Chromecast is 15% faster than its predecessor and supports 1080p video at 60 frames per second. (The second generation of Chromecast only supports 1080p video at 30 frames per second and 720p video at 60 frames per second.) Although most movies and TV shows are played at 30 frames per second, higher framerate could prove useful for some YouTube videos. , live streams and sports programs.
Unlike Amazon's Fire TV Stick and Roku's Streaming Sticks, Chromecast does not include remote controls or TV-based menus. Instead, you must use a phone, tablet, or laptop to launch videos from supported applications. If you have a Google Home speaker, you can also start videos on Chromecast with hands-free voice commands. The new design is available in white or black and has a more fleshy appearance than the old Chromecast, but it's still a circular pendant hanging on TV by a short built-in HDMI cable.
Chromecasts can also stream music from services such as YouTube Music and Spotify, and Google is announcing multi-room audio support later this year. This will allow Chromecast TV dongles to sync with Google Home speakers, Chromecast audio devices, and speakers with built-in Chromecast technology.
When Chromecast is not used for TV or music, it can display images from Google Photos. These screensavers will soon support Live Albums, which can automatically display photos of specific faces. (The same feature is also debuting on the new Google Home Hub countertop.)
According to Variety, FCC records have indicated that the new Chromecast supports Bluetooth and offers improved Wi-Fi connectivity with 802.11ac. Google is not commenting on these additions for the moment, although it is possible that the new Chromecast will get new Bluetooth-related features over time.
Rumors had also suggested that Google would offer a "Smart TV kit" kit with Chromecast and a Google Home Mini speaker. Google has not announced anything like this, but you can still get the second-generation Chromecast and a $ 74 Home Mini at Walmart or Best Buy.
The impact on you: It's a bit surprising that Google does not add 4K HDR streaming to Chromecast or at least not lower the price of 4K HDR Chromecast Ultra, which costs $ 69 two years after launch. In the past few weeks, Amazon has announced the $ 4K Fire TV Stick at a price of $ 50 and Roku has announced its own inexpensive 4K HDR broadcast devices (Premier at $ 40 and Premiere at $ 50). These devices also include appropriate remote controls and on-screen menus, like the Xiaomi Mi Box S, which offers Chromecast features and an Android TV interface complete with 4K HDR for $ 60. Chromecast still has a few virtues: it's easy to use and works with other Google services, but it's not just gaining value anymore.
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