Chromecast with Google TV rolling out fourth update of 2024

Google has released its fourth Chromecast with Google TV update of 2024, featuring the April 2024 security patch. This update, sized at 134MB, includes various bug fixes and performance enhancements. Notably, this year Google has increased the frequency of updates compared to 2023. Additionally, upcoming features include transforming the dongle into a Google Home hub.

Google is preparing to launch a new version of its Chromecast with Google TV, which will maintain the 4K resolution of its predecessor but will include a newly designed remote24. This update comes nearly four years after the original model and follows the HD version released two years ago. The new Chromecast is expected to offer improved specifications over the 2020 model, which featured a 1.9 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor, 2 GB of RAM, and 8 GB of storage4. These specs, particularly the storage, were seen as limitations in the previous model.

The anticipated Chromecast will likely feature the Amlogic S905X5 chipset, which is a significant upgrade from the previous chip used. This new chipset is more efficient due to its 6 nm process technology (down from 12 nm) and includes support for the AV1 video codec, enhancing video streaming capabilities14.

The remote for the new Chromecast will also see changes. It retains the familiar pill-shaped design but adds more buttons, including a relocated volume rocker and a new "magic" button, which users can customize for quick access to favorite features or settings2. This new remote design was revealed in a leak from the Android TV 14 Beta, indicating that the upcoming Chromecast device will also likely run on a newer version of Android TV, given the current model is still on Android 12.

In summary, the new Chromecast with Google TV is set to provide a more powerful and efficient streaming experience, retain its competitive price point, and include a redesigned remote with enhanced functionality24.