Google’s annual product launch bonanza is in full swing, and amongst the releases is an entirely new device.
Say hello to the Chromecast Audio – leaked under the codename ‘Hendrix’.
The device plugs into any speaker with a standard audio jack, and lets your broadcast music over Wi-Fi using your smartphone. It’s just like how the regular Chromecast lets you broadcast video to a TV.
What’s more, the device also comes with support for Spotify built in.
Chromecast Audio isn’t a hugely different proposition to Bluetooth speakers. However, Google hopes to set itself apart by broadcasting “high quality” audio.
The fact that the system runs on Wi-Fi means Chromecast Audio is more of an assault on Sonos systems than a standard Bluetooth speaker.
That’s particularly true because if you buy multiple Chromecast Audio devices, you’ll be able to set up multiple room zones. That means you can play the same audio on different speakers in different rooms, a la Sonos.
It’s also worth noting that because the Chromecast Audio runs on Wi-Fi, not Bluetooth, you’ll be able leave the room to take a call on your phone without interrupting the music.
The device works with iOS, Android, and a laptop running on Mac OS, Windows, or Chrome OS.
Related: Best Portable Speakers 2015
Google has confirmed that the Chromecast Audio will retail at £30 – the same price as the new next-gen Chromecast. It’s available starting today in 17 countries.
What do you make of Google’s new Chromecast Audio? Let us know in the comments.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
