Google has announced the 2nd generation Chromecast. Along with a completely new form-factor and design, the device offers improved WiFi and connectivity features, a new home screen that features new “feeds” for displaying content on-screen while your device is in standby, and “Fast Play,” which allows your devices to connect to Chromecast faster and easier than ever before.
First up is the new Chromecast hardware itself, which you can see above. The device is definitely a marginal departure from the original model. It’s still a dongle, but Google has decided to go with a design that looks to resemble the Chromecast logo itself. Additionally, unlike the original, the second generation Chromecast will come in three different colors: yellow, black, and red.
Google has improved the device’s connectivity and WiFi features, making sure that your Chromecast can stream high-quality content without a hitch. Besides support for the faster 802.11ac band, the new Chromecast also intelligently chooses the best WiFi bands to use for the highest-quality stream . The original Chromecast only supported 802.11b/g/n.
The 2nd generation Chromecast also includes support for content feeds on the Chromecast home screen. This will be configured through the new Chromecast companion app, and allows you to add social media feeds or image feeds that can play when your Chromecast is in its screensaver “backdrop” mode. Currently, the Chromecast backdrop is only customizable in that you can toggle things like weather and art, as well as add your own personal photos.
Finally, the new Chromecast supports something called “Fast Play”. This, along with the improved WiFi features, allows your Chromecast to establish a connection much quicker and play content more seamlessly when pressing the “Cast” button on a connected device. This is one area many users find frustrating with the current Chromecast, and if Google has made the experience anything close to this, Fast Play might be the device’s most compelling feature.
Google says that the 2nd gen Chromecast is coming today to 17 countries for $35. You’ll be able to grab one from the Google Store, Best Buy, and Walmart.
via 9to5 google
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