Google has unveiled the second-generation of its Chromecast media streaming dongle.
There have been a number of changes, including a re-engineered Wi-Fi architecture that will let you stream higher resolution video.
Mario Queiroz, VP of Product Management at Google’s Chromecast division, says the new device “can sustain the flow of more data”. No mention of 4K though.
The Chromecast app has also been “overhauled” so that you can browse featured content across apps – universal search – coming soon to iOS and Android.
There are also a number of new Cast-enabled apps, including Spotify and Google Photos, with BBC iPlayer Radio coming soon.
For the unaware, Chromecast is a dongle that you plug into the HDMI port of your TV or monitor.
It connects to your Wi-Fi connection – or wired with an adapter, if you prefer – and streams content over the internet.
There are two main channels of content: (1) mobile apps and web apps that support Google Cast, and (2) mirroring content you’re playing on Google Chrome or a recent Android device.
The new Chromecast works with iOS, Android, and your Windows, Mac, or Chrome OS laptop. And it’ll cost you £30 to purchase.
The original Chromecast was first announced back on July 24, 2013.
As of May 2015, Google confirmed it had sold 17 million Chromecasts over its two years on sale. At today’s event, it revealed it had topped the 20 million mark.
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The new Chromecast 2 will be available to buy in three colours: Black, Lemonade (yellow), and Coral (pale pink), across 17 countries. It’s on sale at Google’s online store.
Not that you’ll see those colours much, since the dongle will more than likely be hidden behind your TV.
Will you buy Google’s new Chromecast for 2015? Let us know in the comments.
Check out our smartphone buyer’s video guide below:
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Editorial independence
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.