There’s no comparison between the Chromecast and Google’s next streaming player

Google appears to be shifting away from the HDMI dongle design that has characterized its streaming devices, transitioning instead to a more traditional set-top box. According to images published by 9to5Google, the new device is named the “Google TV Streamer,” signaling not only a design change but also a departure from the Chromecast branding.

The new Google TV Streamer sports a slanted top and aligns with the design aesthetics of Google’s recent hardware releases. The accompanying remote control closely resembles the one that came with the last-generation Chromecast, but with a notable difference: this version is longer and features a volume rocker on the front.

The Google TV Streamer is expected to be unveiled at Google’s hardware event on August 13th, alongside an array of other new products. These include the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9, Pixel Watch 3, Pixel Watch 3 XL, and potentially other surprises.

As a tech enthusiast, I’ve long hoped for Google to create a more robust streaming player capable of rivaling the Apple TV 4K. The 2020 release of the Chromecast with Google TV failed to meet this standard, making the Nvidia Shield the best option in terms of performance. The upcoming event will finally reveal whether the Google TV Streamer will elevate the competition or maintain Google’s typical sub-$100 pricing by keeping the specifications modest.

This transition to a set-top box could position Google more strongly in the streaming device market, potentially offering better performance and features. The move away from the dongle design might also appeal to users looking for a more stable and powerful streaming solution. With the official unveiling just around the corner, tech enthusiasts and consumers alike are eager to see if the Google TV Streamer will indeed bring a significant upgrade and compete more effectively with other high-end streaming devices.