Google TV Streamer: The Chromecast Successor We've Been Waiting For?

Image: 9to5Google.com

I've recently become a much bigger fan of Google TV. I've always been a loyal Roku user, but the recent improvements to the Google TV interface have won me over. I rarely even use my Roku anymore.

Traditionally, the Chromecast dongle and the Walmart Onn Streaming Box have been the go-to devices for Google TV. However, the Chromecast with Google TV is getting a bit outdated, and an update has been highly anticipated. Now, 9to5Google reports that the new device won't be a Chromecast at all, but rather a set-top box called the "Google TV Streamer."

This upcoming device was first revealed back in April, and 9to5Google has confirmed it will be named the "Google TV Streamer:"

Google is ditching the compact dongle form factor that plugs into your TV and remains out of sight.

As seen in images shared with 9to5Google, Google is aiming for a set-top/table-top design that has a slanted, pill-shaped surface. It's rather wide compared to other streaming boxes, and unclear if it serves any functional purpose. For example, this would be great for Ultra Wideband-powered Tap to Cast that was announced for the Pixel Tablet earlier this year.

This is joined by a pill-shaped base, with the entire thing vaguely looking like a miniature Pixel Tablet Charging Speaker Dock. Two cables — presumably power and HDMI — protrude from the back. Overall, it should have a minimal (height) presence underneath your television.

While the article doesn't mention any specs, I hope they will be significantly better than the current Chromecast. One of its biggest drawbacks is its limited technical specifications. Perhaps the new device will have more RAM and local storage, along with better app management.

The article states that the device will be officially announced in August, but it's unclear if it will be released then or later down the line.

My Streaming Life has involved Google TV a lot more lately, and I'm really excited about this new device, whenever it may arrive.