Google Releases Two New Chromecast Devices

Google’s New Chromecast Device


It’s been nearly two and half years since Google released the first Chromecast and they have decided that it’s finally time to release a new version. During Google’s Nexus event back on September 25th, they showed off two new devices. First, an updated version of the Chromecast. The new version has been given quite the overhaul as far as looks go while still retaining the same great functionality that we have all come to love with the original Chromecast. The second device announced is dubbed as Chromecast Audio. This device allows you to plug speakers directly into the Chromecast through a 3.5mm jack which will then allow you to “cast” music directly to your speaker.

Chromecast 2 Overview

new-Chromecast-2-coral

As you can see by the picture above, the look of the new Chromecast has departed quite significantly from the original Chromecast.  There are three color options available, Black, Lemon (yellow), and Coral (pictured above).  Instead of being one solid plastic device, the HDMI connector is now attached to a cable.  This should help those of you that have a tight fit between the HDMI port on your TV and the wall.  Aside from looks and colors, Google has also helped improved the WiFi capabilities of this new device.  According to Google. the bandwidth throughput is more than double the speed of the original Chromecast if your device has a poor wireless signal.

Chromecast-wifi-graph

Google has promised that the new Chromecast will be able to start streaming videos faster.  You will no longer have to wait 5-10 seconds for the your Netflix videos to start.  During Google’s event, they showed off this feature.  The new Chromecast did indeed start videos almost instantly.  Since the Chromecast itself is such a simple design, there isn’t much that Google could change.  A few features that we were hoping they would add is 4k streaming and 120hz.  Maybe they are saving these features for next year?

Chromecast Audio

chromecast-audio

The second Chromecast that Google announced will allow you to easily stream music from your PC/Tablet/ or Phone to any speaker set.  This means that you can dust off your old high end Bose speakers and start using them again.  The Chromecast Audio works by connecting to your wireless network and sending the music stream directly to the Chromecast Audio device.  That’s right, no more bluetooth to rely on.  More importantly, the Chromecast Audio will offer an affordable alternative to music players such as SONOS.  The Chromecast Audio also supports an optical connection for those of you who prefer a higher quality listening experience.

Both the Chromecast Audio and new Chromecast are available to purchase from most online retailers (excluding Amazon.com) or you can buy them right from the Google’s Store.

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