What do you want from a new Chromecast with Google TV? [Poll]

Ben Schoon | Sep 11 2023 - 2:00 pm PT

Last week, we reported that Android 14 contains hints of a new Chromecast with Google TV, and while that device doesn’t appear to be coming imminently, it’s still an exciting prospect. What would you want from a new version?

In the latest beta for Android 14 for Android TV OS, there’s a brief animation that shows a clearly new design for the remote included with Chromecast with Google TV. The updated remote has reorganized buttons, but the same basic design. That’s good news overall, as the Chromecast’s compact and easy-to-use remote has been a highlight of the device since its 2020 debut.

That animation showed up a few months after our Kyle Bradshaw reported in January of this year that a new Chromecast with Google TV was in the works.

But, at this point, we still don’t really know much of anything about Google’s plans. The original Chromecast with Google TV launched in late 2020 and the low-cost “HD” model then arrived in 2022.

The door is really wide open to what Google could be doing with an updated Chromecast. The existing streaming dongle on its own is due for an update. Google has, in the time since, had a pretty heavy focus on the AV1 protocol, which the original “Sabrina” dongle doesn’t support on a hardware level. So, at the very least, that’s something we can expect from new hardware.

Common complaints about the existing Chromecast could also focus on common user complaints of the device. That could, and should, include more onboard storage. The 8GB of the existing model is highly restrictive, and a cap that users hit often. Performance is another area where Google could easily make improvements. While Chromecast with Google TV isn’t as slow as many built-in TV OS’s, it’s a far cry from something like an Nvidia Shield TV, Apple TV, or honestly even a Roku in some cases.

Top comment by Mckillio

Liked by 15 people

Basically what Ben said, mostly better in every way and for $50. It definitely needs better performance relatively speaking that the 4k had when it came out, the update needs to age better.

I also agree that there should be a pro version for more and love Craig's idea for a Home or home screen for it too.

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But the better question is what form the hardware may take.

Personally, the path I’d love to see Google take is with two devices. Firstly, a refresh to the existing Chromecast. More storage, a new chip, and this updated remote is all I’d change. The rest, I feel, it’s totally fine for the $50 cost Google has been targeting.

Beyond that, I think Google needs to invest in giving Google TV a proper competitor to Apple TV’s hardware. Something that can act as a smart home hub, offer a few more ports for added flexibility, and support stronger hardware for better performance, local gameplay, and more. It’s abundantly clear that “cheap” streaming hardware is what people are buying, but just like with smartphones, a “flagship” is an important part of the story. It’s the “crown jewel,” offering the best experience and features that more affordable devices can strive to follow. Google TV just doesn’t have that today, even in the Shield TV, which is four years out of date and still running Android TV instead.

What about you? What do you want to see in a new Chromecast with Google TV? Vote below and let’s discuss in the comments!