Since the beginning of 2020, we have been talking about a Google Chromecast device. In June, we got to know more about the new Chromecast device. And today, Google is making things official.

The company just introduced a new, entry-level Chromecast that cost $49.99. There is a lot of major improvements here, mainly the new Google TV experience that’s shipping with the new Chromecast.

Google TV seems to be the new name for Android TV, and it introduces a new design for the Android TV interface. But more importantly, the new Chromecast also comes with a dedicated remote. The dedicated remote includes buttons for things like Google Assistant, as well as YouTube and Netflix.

With Google TV on the new Chromecast, you will be able to access all supported apps, including things like Prime Video, Spotify, Disney+, etc. The device is also 4K and HDR compatible and supports multi-user accounts. The new Google TV interface brings content from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and other streaming services together — so you will no longer need to go into these individual apps to see all the different shows/movies you are watching. The new Google TV experience will be coming to other, third-party devices too.

Welcome to Google TV. The entertainment you love, with a little help from Google. 📺 Available today. pic.twitter.com/qJYSbWWUeM

— Google (@Google) September 30, 2020

It doesn’t officially support Google Stadia, but that probably won’t matter to most people buying this thing.

The new Chromecast is a big deal for one main reason: you no longer need to use your phone to be able to use the entry-level Chromecast. Because it is now powered by its own OS, you don’t need anything else. You can simply just browse and watch things on it without needing a phone.

The new device is going on sale today for $49.99 in the United States. It comes in three different finishes: Snow, Sky, and Sunrise. Coming to more countries later this year.

Tagged with Android TV, Google, Google TV, Sabrina