#Google chromecast remote app android for android#

It’s a bit confusing, but this is basically a new look for the operating system, and you’ll still use the same apps already available for Android TV.įor those who already have a smart TV or set-top box, the addition of the Google TV interface doesn’t mean much. Android TV took over that system, and the new Google TV runs as a layer on top of Android TV. If the name “Google TV” sounds familiar, it’s because the company already used that name for an ill-fated smart TV platform 10 years ago. The new Chromecast also launches with the new Google TV interface and it’s a mix of the existing Android TV system and Play Movies and TV app. I still can’t switch my TV off completely with this remote though. I could control my TV’s native volume with this, which is a nice expansion from the limited options via my phone before. The power, input and volume controls are programmable to your TV via an infrared sensor, which gives you more control than using your phone with an older Chromecast. You won’t have to say “Hey Google” when you do this, and you can let go of the key when you’re done. To talk to the Assistant, you’ll have to press and hold down the dedicated button and speak into the remote control. Google said it picked these two streaming services because they’re the most popular among users. The eight buttons are: Back, Assistant, Home, Mute, Power, Input, as well as dedicated options for YouTube and Netflix. The controls here feature a circular four-way navigation pad near the top and eight buttons below that, as well as volume controls along the right edge. The remote feels smooth and light, and Google was kinda enough to include the two triple A batteries required to power it. There’s a little dent on the bottom to help it sit level on a table instead of rocking side to side. New remote controlĪ highlight this year is the new remote control, which Google said was “our most requested feature.” It’s slightly longer than my palm with a curved shape that makes it comfortable to hold. While Roku’s new $100 streaming box only just added support for Dolby Vision, Amazon’s $50 Fire TV Stick 4K and the Apple TV 4K have both had the codec for years. It’ll also work with Dolby Vision content for better colors, contrast and brightness, as well as offer surround sound for more immersive experiences. The new Chromecast has a beefed-up processor that helps it run the new interface and support 4K HDR at up to 60 frames per second. Google also minimized the power adapter that comes in the box so it takes up less room on your strip of sockets. The new snow (white), sunrise (coral) and sky (blue) hues are are in line with Google’s recent pastel-toned devices. It’s also much thinner than the Ultra and I love the fun colors available. It feels like a credit card holder with the smooth finish and oval shape of a pebble, except with a small cable sticking out of it. Google is calling this the “best Chromecast yet.” and it looks more like the Chromecast Ultra from 2016 than the original stick. The device is now available for $49.99, and it comes with a remote control with a mic built in for Assistant access. I’ve spent two days with the new Chromecast and Google TV and so far, it seems like a serious improvement on an already excellent device. But Google believes there is still a place for the little streaming player and it’s announcing the new Chromecast with Google TV today. Since then, smart TVs, gaming consoles, set top boxes and other streaming gadgets have made watching Netflix or YouTube on your television a lot easier.

Seven years ago, Google launched the original Chromecast - a $35 HDMI dongle that you could plug into any TV to get your streaming apps on a big screen.

Google chromecast remote app android