The Chromecast is getting its biggest update, with the introduction of a built-in OS called Google TV and even it’s own remote.
Available now for $50, the new Chromecast is the first to include a physical remote, complete with Google Assistant for voice control. There’s also an actual on-screen menu system, powered by Google TV, the company’s new name for its Android TV operating system. Google TV is similar to its predecessor, with access to thousands of apps including Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and Spotify (but not Apple TV Plus).
Google is calling this the “best Chromecast yet.” It looks more like to the Chromecast Ultra from 2016 than the original stick, with a slightly oval shape and a thinner profile. The design looks rounder and softer, similar to Google’s latest Nest Mini speakers, with a color palette to match.
A new component of the Chromecast is the remote control, which Google said was “our most requested feature.” It has a round four-way navigation pad near the top and eight buttons below that, as well as volume controls along the right edge. The keys here include Back, Assistant, Home, Mute, Power, Input, as well as dedicated options for YouTube and Netflix. Google said it picked these two streaming services because they’re the most popular among users.
With the Assistant integration, you can ask the digital helper to play your favorite songs on Spotify, show your Nest camera stream, change up the color of your lighting or play specific shows.
Chromecast with Google TV has all of the big features found on competing streamers. In addition to 4K HDR video, it also supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos on compatible TVs and sound systems. The remote can control volume and power on a TV or soundbar, allowing me to (mostly) ditch my TV remote. I can press and hold on a button and speak into the mic for Google Assistant, which allows the digital helper to control your smart home, search for content, open apps, display the weather and perform other tasks.
The new Chromecast with Google TV is already available today from Google for $49.99. If you’ve been looking for a cheap way to turn your TV smart, this could be a solid option.
