Google’s Chromecast with Google TV is getting a new update passing the flagship torch to its new pricier sibling, the Google TV Streamer. The little dongle has just received its fifth update of the year, bringing the Android security patch level up to June 2024. While this update might not be flashy, it still packs a punch with bug fixes and performance improvements.
This steady stream of updates is a sign of Google’s commitment to the Chromecast with Google TV, even as it gears up to launch the all-new Google TV Streamer next month. If you’re keeping score, this update schedule has already outpaced last year’s cadence. The first update of 2024 brought Fast Pair and the Audio output switcher in Quick Settings, but subsequent updates have mainly focused on security patches, bug fixes, and improvements.
Later this year, Google will roll out a big update that will add “Home runtime,” transforming the Chromecast with Google TV into a hub for Matter devices. But for now, make sure to grab the latest update by heading to Settings > System > About > System update.
The Chromecast with Google TV has been a trusty sidekick since its launch in 2020. Despite some initial gripes about storage and hardware limitations, it has aged surprisingly well, thanks to continuous software updates and tweaks. But as they say, all good things must come to an end — or at least make way for something even better.
Enter the Google TV Streamer. This new set-top box is set to replace the Chromecast with Google TV and become the company’s flagship streaming device. According to a recent report, the Google TV Streamer 4K will cost about twice as much as the current Chromecast with Google TV in Europe, with a price tag of €119.99 compared to the Chromecast’s €69.99. This new gadget will come with an upgraded remote and other enhancements such as Ethernet and Thread support, and it’s expected to be officially announced tomorrow, August 6. However, eager fans will have to wait until September 24 to get their hands on it.
At this rumored price, the Google TV Streamer could hit local shelves priced at about Kshs 20,000.
