Google has refined its streaming offerings with the latest iteration, merging a seamless user interface with impressive smart home capabilities. The new device promises enhanced performance and robust smart home integration.
Merging the best of streaming and smart home technology, this device aims to cater to users looking for an all-in-one solution. Let’s delve into the details of this newly released product.
A Comprehensive Upgrade
The Google TV Streamer 4K is available at $99.99, a set-top box that significantly upgrades its predecessor. Featuring a new processor, increased RAM, and four times the storage, this device is designed to keep up with modern streaming needs. It also includes a built-in ethernet port, which is a departure from the dongle design.
This device not only enhances streaming but also acts as a smart home hub. With support for Matter and a built-in Thread radio, it doubles as a Thread border router, integrating smoothly with other smart home devices.
User Interface and Experience
The Google TV interface continues to impress with its intuitive navigation and personalised recommendations. Powered by the Android TV OS, the platform constantly evolves to make content discovery seamless. Whether you’re searching for specific shows or sifting through the ‘Trending on Google’ section, the interface is user-friendly and dynamic.
The new hardware facilitates a smoother and faster user experience compared to previous versions. Users will notice a significant reduction in lag, providing a timely response to both streaming and smart home controls.
Hardware and Design
The design shift from dongle to set-top box brings both aesthetic and functional benefits. While it might not be the most inconspicuous piece of hardware, its ‘hazel’ option blends well with most media setups. The remote is slightly larger but remains similar to its predecessor’s design, offering voice control and easy navigation.
Setting up the device involves using the Google Home app, simplifying the process of connecting to your Google account and smart home devices. The inclusion of an ethernet port and support for various audio and video formats ensures the device’s compatibility with a wide range of TVs and audio systems.
The setup process, which includes a software update, is user-friendly and efficient, typically taking around ten minutes.
Smart Home Integration
One of the standout features is the new smart home panel on the right side of the TV screen. This panel allows users to control smart home devices like lights and cameras directly from their TV, enhancing the home automation experience.
The integration with smart home devices is seamless, allowing for quick responses when controlling lights or watching live camera feeds. Though the device lacks support for Wi-Fi 6, the ethernet port compensates by offering a stable connection for homes with numerous smart devices.
Voice Commands and Remote Control
Google Assistant, integrated into the remote, makes navigation and control remarkably easy. Voice commands like “Play Industry on Max” respond accurately, streamlining the user’s experience. Most voice commands work well, making it a reliable tool for search and control.
However, there are some limitations, such as the inability to pair with Nest speakers for TV audio. Despite this, the remote’s mappable shortcut button adds flexibility in navigation, allowing users to customise their experience further.
With features like the ‘Find My’ function for the remote, users can locate their remotes easily, adding convenience to everyday usage.
Performance and Speed
The Google TV Streamer features a noticeable performance boost, significantly faster than its predecessors. However, it’s not the fastest on the market, trailing behind premium alternatives like the Apple TV and Nvidia Shield.
The device’s speed should be more than adequate for most users, providing a reliable and responsive experience. Its strengths lie in the seamless integration of streaming and smart home functionalities.
Smart Home Capability and Matter Support
This device’s strongest suit is its smart home integration. It’s the first Google Home hub to support Matter, Thread, ethernet, Google Assistant, and smart display functions, making it a versatile centrepiece for smart homes.
The Google TV Streamer 4K emerges as a robust choice for those seeking both a powerful streaming device and a comprehensive smart home hub. Its seamless integration and improved performance make it a worthy contender in the market.
While not without its minor limitations, the device’s extensive feature set at under $100 makes it a smart investment. This upgraded offering effectively bridges the gap between entertainment and home automation, providing users with a superior, unified experience.
