And they're replacing it with a new device that does the same thing for twice as much money.
this post was submitted on 06 Aug 2024
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Not sure if you were being facetious or not, but that is in fact what they're doing
Google TV Streamer is designed to give you the best entertainment and smart home experience possible. It replaces Chromecast, bringing its best features to our next-generation 4K TV streaming device — but as a faster, more premium version.
It's actually more than 2x the price at $99
:-(
I was being serious. The 4k Chromecast is $49.99, so I guess the new one is a penny more than 2x, but close enough. The differences are not worth that upgrade though:
- Dolby Atmos vs Non-Atmos Dolby encoded
- Customizable button and find feature on the remote
- 32 GB vs 8 GB of storage
- An ethernet port (which is surprising that the current gen doesn't have one given that the previous gen does)
- Thread border router
That's it.
If you use a chromecast to just cast from your phone this upgrade isn't worth a damn. If you use a settop box to like play android games or something then an Nvidia Shield is a better option for you. For everyone else this is just an excuse to raise prices for new customers that aren't aware of existing offerings.
It doesn't matter if it's "faster" 4k 60 is going to play at the same speed.
Oh I wasn't aware they went up to $49.99, I remembered them being $30-40, maybe it was a sale or older model.
Strange about the Atmos though, I could swear my 4k Chromecast does support Dolby Atmos.
Also for a streaming box, what is the point of increasing the storage?
This "upgrade" just seems so useless.
Iirc, the Google TV has installable apps to include games. I have a Chromecast ultra that is streaming only, no remote, 4k, and Ethernet. In my opinion it's where they peaked. But subsequent versions had the built in interface for remote control and apps.
The 1080p Chromecast is about $30.
But it has AI!! /s
I got downvoted for this previously but I like to use Xbox Series S consoles as my set top boxes. I just search for certified refurbs under $200 and normally find them. If you don't have GamePass, don't game amd would rather have a Bluray player, then a PS4 is also a good choice and definitely under $200 ($174 last I checked).