Next week, Google will release the new versions for Chromecast, both an audio and video version. The new things to note are the redesign of the video product and the addition of an audio product. Google has been an innovator with their Chromecast stick, selling over 20 million worldwide. That said, it is not a huge step forward to think they could do the same with music streaming. What is a big step is the way Google has done it.
As I mentioned, the design of the Chromecast is different. Instead of looking similar to a USB drive, the new Chromecast has a larger disc, and a short, flat cable that contains the HDMI connection. According to the head of Chromecast in Europe, the redesign takes advantage of the new dual band wi-fi technology, and provides a more robust experience. That is not the only way Google accomplishes it’s robust experience however.
Much like Apple’s new version of the assistant, the device is supposed to be proactive. It will anticipate what you are going to do, and start pre loading apps based on what it thinks you are going to do. The plan by doing this, is to decrease buffering and loading times. Just what we need, another proactive device. If it does what it is supposed to do though, it will definitely give it a jump on other devices.
The other exciting thing to discuss is the launch of Chromecast Audio device. This item has almost the same look to it as the video version. Interestingly, With the Chrome icon in the center, and the grooves that go around the icon, it looks very much like a 45 RPM record. I am sure many will appreciate the nod to classic technology. What the audio version does is allow you to stream music to any speaker system that allows for an rca jack input. Imagine going to your parents’ house, plugging in Chromecast audio, and streaming music through the same speakers that may have one played jazz or Pink Floyd.
If you would like to access streaming video or audio in another country you can use a SmartDNS with Chromecast to enjoy content in other areas of the world. A good SmartDNS service will help you unblock geographic restrictions. Enjoy popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, Pandora, and more from anywhere in the world.
