Google's September 29 press event unveiled new Nexus smartphones, and a powerful upgrade and speed boost for its Chromecast digital media player. The search giant also launched the new Chromecast Audio device, while the price point of both dongles will maintain at an affordable $35.
Chromecast and Chromecast Audio run on iOS 7.0 and higher, and Android 4.0 and higher. Google's new product supports High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) and Micro USB, making it ideal to plug into nearly any TV set, which is a big plus if ports are filling up.
The tech company also promised better wireless Wi-Fi performance on dual bands. Its new-and-improved antenna system allows its Wi-Fi chip to constantly use the best antenna/radio frequency due to changing wireless conditions in a home.
The dongle also got a facelift. It has been transformed from a USB stick-esque design into a round pod, according to BGR. The flexible connector is perfect for plugging into a television, and is available in lemonade, coral, and black color options.
Chromecast Audio works with external speakers, and after connecting it to Wi-Fi users can launch their favorite playlists on the speakers. A mobile phone functions as a controller to stream from Google Play Music and other music libraries.
Chromecast also now supports Spotify. This allows users to use the Chromecast device or speakers through Chromecast Audio to stream music libraries to a TV.
In addition, revamped Chromecast apps provide one place to browse cross-app content. It is now available for Android and will roll out for iOS during the next weeks, according to PC Mag.
Google has included a few special offers for Chromecast buyers, including 90 days of free music at Google Play.
Here is a first look at Chromecast Audio: