>
Google is reportedly planning to launch an all-new Chromecast, so anyone looking to buy a 4K streaming stick might want to wait to see what the new gadget has to offer.
Following on from the 2020 Chromecast with Google TV and the step-down HD-only Chromecast launched last year, it looks like Google is planning to launch a new best streaming stick in the near future.
This is based on code found by 9to5Google (opens in new tab) in the latest preview version of the Google Home app. The report says there are references to a never-before-seen Google TV device called YTC, with the piece adding that some of the code directly confirms that the product is indeed a Chromecast device rather than other hardware. In addition, this claim is seemingly supported by the codenames for both previous Chromecasts with Google TV, namely YTV and YTB.
Unfortunately, the code doesn’t reveal what the Chromecast will be capable of, but since the latest entry was a budget-friendly gadget that only supported HD resolution, we expect Google’s next model to be a follow-up to the more premium Chromecast with Google TV from 2020. This means the return of 4K HDR with support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.
What we want to see from a new Chromecast
Besides the return to 4K, there are several upgrades we hope to see Google make with its next Chromecast, the first being a bump in the device’s storage space.
Streaming sticks don’t need a ton of storage space, but they do need something to house their operating system and the necessary data to run your favorite streaming apps. As more streaming services enter the market and the market becomes flooded with more must-see TV, streaming sticks will require more storage space to accommodate a large library of applications.
We also hope that Google will increase the power of its Chromecast. Again, these streaming-focused TV add-ons don’t need much power, but Google’s 2020 already looks rather sluggish compared to some of its rivals – in our review we noticed the software wasn’t as responsive as we’d like it to be expect from a premium product.
Speaking of software, we want Google to improve the search function of its Chromecast Assistant as well. While the Google Assistant often works as expected, some queries can produce complicated or even inaccurate results, somewhat limiting its usefulness.
But for now, we’ll just have to wait and speculate what Google has in store for us. While this leak suggests the device is close enough to launch, it should be tested on Google’s latest Home app build, but we’ve heard little else about it. Hopefully more leaks or an official statement from Google will come out soon so we don’t stay in the dark for too long.
If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your home entertainment setup today, check out our best TV guide for 2023.