Google introduced a lighter version of the Chromecast with Google TV inSeptember. The new HD version can stream with 1080p resolution and is cheaperwith its price of 39.99 euros. We discuss 6 novelties of the new Chromecast(HD), but there are also disadvantages.
1. More storage
A pain point of the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) has always been the limitedstorage you can use to install apps. That problem isn’t completely gone withthe Chromecast (HD), though you get an extra 300MB to use for apps. TheChromecast with Google TV (HD) comes with 4.7 GB compared to the 4.4 GB withthe 4K version.
300 GB does make a difference when you install apps in the Play Store, becausein practice you will be able to use three to four extra apps. Also payattention when setting up the Chromecast (HD), because for the first time thestreaming stick wants to install TikTok by default. If you don’t want that,you can prevent that during installation and save extra space.
2. Microphone Indicator
The Chromecast with Google TV (HD) works with Android TV 12, while the 4Kvariant has appeared with the older Android TV 10. That brings a number ofadvantages that Google describes. In Google TV, for example, you can see anindicator appear at the top right when an app uses the microphone in theremote. If that happens at an undesirable moment, you can revoke thepermission to use the microphone. This privacy feature is also known from theAndroid 12 update for phones.
3. Scale Text
Not everyone has an equally good view, and thanks to Android TV 12 it ispossible to adjust the size of letters. You can scale letters up to 130percent of the original, and there’s also the option of making lettersslightly smaller than standard – 85 percent – to fit more information on thescreen. So you don’t have to go looking for glasses if you want to see thetext in the interface of Google TV.
4. Adjust frame rate to the content
With the newer software of the Chromecast with Google TV (HD), it is possiblein the settings to adjust the frame rate in which an app is displayed on yourTV to the frame rate requested by the app. For example, you can choose to onlyinherit the app’s framerate if that works seamlessly, and this option isactive by default in Google TV.
Another option is to use an app’s framerate even when it doesn’t workseamlessly – basically forcing it – which can cause problems. You will thenbriefly see a black screen every time you play a video. With a final option,you choose never to take over the requested frame rate of an app.
5. Connect the WiFi with QR code
Connecting your Chromecast (HD) to a Wi-Fi network can now be done fasterwithout typing a password. That works with ‘Quick connect. If you choose thisoption in the connection menu, a QR code will appear on the screen of yourtelevision. If you then scan it with your phone, your Chromecast (HD) willimmediately connect to the network to which you are connected on yoursmartphone.
6. Turn off surround sound
The new Chromecast gives users more control over the sound of their TV, thespeakers or soundbar connected to it. You may not always want to blastsurround sound effects through your living room, for example when your partneror children are sleeping.
By default, Google TV uses all audio formats supported by your TV’s internalor external sound source. In addition, you now have the option in the settingsto always switch off surround sound, or to manually choose the allowed soundtechniques.
Less powerful hardware
We have now discussed six advantages with the Chromecast with Google TV (HD)compared to the 4K variant, but the stick also comes with one disadvantage.The HD version may perform slower when browsing the interface and apps. It hasa less fast chipset on board, a quad-core ‘Amlogic S805X2’ processor. Inaddition, it can also use less RAM: 1.5 GB of RAM instead of 2 GB.
We expect that the benefits of Android TV 12 will also reach the Chromecast(4K) via an update later, but when that will come is not known. Have youalready bought a Chromecast with Google TV (HD)? Let us know in the comments.
Buy Chromecast with Google TV
You can buy the Chromecast With Google TV 2K HD in a white color. It costs