Google unveils refreshed Chromecast with refined design, lack of new features

by Joshua Swingle / Oct 09, 2018, 1:23 PM

Google unveils refreshed Chromecast with refined design, lack of new features

Although Google’s main focuses at today’s event, aside from the new Pixel phones, were the Pixel Slate and the Google Home Hub, the internet giant did also have a new Chromecast up its sleeves.

Overall, the new Chromecast doesn’t bring anything major to the table. In fact, the biggest change is the design which now makes use of a simplistic matte finish complete with a small Google “G” on top, rather than the glossy plastic and Chrome logo seen on the previous model. Feature-wise, there are only a few changes. Namely, the new Chromecast is now 15 percent faster, something that allows for 1080p streaming at 60fps, rather than the 720p quality possible with the second-generation device. Also, a future update will allow the device to act just like a Chromecast Audio whereby it can play music in sync with other Google Home speakers. Despite rumors of Bluetooth connectivity, though, this feature is unfortunately still missing.

Just like previous generations, the new Chromecast will set consumers back $35. In order to match its range of speakers, Google has updated the colors to include Charcoal gray and Chalk white.

source: Google

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11 Comments

1. JCASS889

Posts: 630; Member since: May 18, 2018

why say it lacks new features and yet state that it now supports 1080p at 60fps? sounds like a new feature to me.

posted on Oct 09, 2018, 1:26 PM 7

3. nikhil23

Posts: 503; Member since: Dec 07, 2016

typical PA at it's best

posted on Oct 09, 2018, 1:29 PM 1

4. middlehead

Posts: 468; Member since: May 12, 2014

I assume they're nitpicking that that's enhancement of an existing feature, rather than a NEW option like Bluetooth would've been.

posted on Oct 09, 2018, 1:35 PM 1

5. joshuaswingle

Posts: 672; Member since: Apr 03, 2018

All They've done is improve an existing one slightly. It was expected to support both Bluetooth and faster Wi-Fi, but neither of those features have been introduced.

posted on Oct 09, 2018, 1:38 PM 1

6. JCASS889

id call the jump to 1080 60fps a little bit more than a slight improvement. and the thing is already on your network, i see no benefit for Bluetooth

posted on Oct 09, 2018, 1:49 PM 0

7. Dr.Phil

Posts: 2488; Member since: Feb 14, 2011

I believe the main reason people wanted bluetooth is because they wanted to hook up bluetooth accessories such as remotes, controllers, speakers, etc. to the Chromecast.