Kicking off Google hardware rumors for the day is a new Chromecast. The current rumor states that instead of an updated model to the current one, its updating the older 3rd-gen model for consumers still rocking their older non-4K TVs.
Now this would offer the same hardware/software from the current model but will max out at 1080p video quality. So w/ the lower resolution support, you would get 2GB of RAM, cap out at 60fps, & support for Google AV1 codec to reduce bandwidth to make the bitrate low while retaining a high-quality video. Why would Google make this you might ask?
Simple being competitive by offering 1080p + 4K streaming stick options. Apple, Amazon, & Roku all do this and w/ only having the newer 4K option, Google ain’t putting up a fight in that entry-level streaming category to push their Google TV software. The current model retails for $50 as you can often find them on sale. As this HD version could range below that starting at $20 or slightly higher price point.
Now I think everyone’s concern would be performance as many have had issues w/ it being sluggish or bogging down after a while. I’ve been using mines since it dropped and have been fine. So how has yours been treating you? And is anyone looking forward to this HD Chromecast that could arrive later this year?
