Google Unveils 2018 Chromecast: 1080p at 60 fps, Chromecast Audio Support
by Anton Shilov on October 9, 2018 6:00 PM EST- Posted in
- Media Player
- Android
- Chromecast
Google on Tuesday introduced its newest Chromecast dongle for media streaming. The updated device adds support for 60 fps streaming at 1080p, but does not support a 4K resolution, which is why the Chromecast Ultra remains Google’s top-of-the-range media player. In addition, the new dongle supports Chromecast Audio technology.
The third-generation Chromecast is based on an SoC that is 15% faster when compared to the chip that powers the second-gen Chromecast dongle. These limited performance improvements naturally did not allow Google to significantly improve the feature-set of the device (e.g., add 4K streaming support). As a result, the only tangible streaming advantage that the new Chromecast has over its predecessor is support for 1080p60 video. In addition, the updated device will support Chromecast Audio functionality, which lets a Chromecast play back music in sync with other speakers connected to Google’s devices (this capability will be added later in 2018).
When it comes to connectivity, the Chromecast continues to feature an HDMI interface, 802.11ac Wi-Fi support for both 2.4Ghz and 5GHz, and has a Micro-USB connector for power (5V, 1A) or an optional Ethernet adapter. As for compatibility, the Chromecast can work with devices running Android, ChromeOS, iOS, macOS, and Windows. Besides, the Chromecast can also work with Google's Home device, Google's Assistant speakers, and other smart home electronics.
Just like before, the 2018 Chromecast device will retail for $35.
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.vodka - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 - link
> 802.11ac Wi-Fi support (it now supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, so it works a bit faster than its predecessor)Second gen CC had 5GHz ac Wi-Fi.
quiksilvr - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 - link
Yup. And the Second Gen one was able to run at 720p at 60 fps.Diablo-D3 - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 - link
On top of that, the second gen CC's radio was a lot less shitty in the 2.4ghz band. Not saying you should use 2.4ghz unless you absolutely have to, but the CC1 was famously bad.Also, CC1 and 2 and 4k all support the CC ethernet dongle, and I assume the new CC does as well.
mathew7 - Wednesday, October 10, 2018 - link
I remember that video support was the same on both generations. Only wifi being really upgraded.Now, will this one support h265? (yes, on up to 1080p videos).
quiksilvr - Wednesday, October 10, 2018 - link
Gonna have to wait on someone to confirm that but the Chromecast Ultra does. However at $70 it just isn't worth it with the new Fire Stick at $50 and offering 4K HDR at 60fps just like the Roku Streaming Stick+ at $60 with 4K HDR at 60fps as well.Honestly I am surprised. I was really expecting them to come out with a Google Home Cast (dropping the Chrome name) that did 4K HDR and 60fps for $40 (since it doesn't come with a remote). Instead we got a 2018 streaming device that does not even support 4K.
Sttm - Wednesday, October 10, 2018 - link
Yeah, that new $50 FireTV just slaps around the competition. Better HDR support (HDR10+, HLG, in addition to DV and HDR10) than Apple, Roku, Chromecast Ultra, ShieldTV... and it costs less! And its a stick!saratoga4 - Wednesday, October 10, 2018 - link
Chromecast Ultra refresh is going to wait for a SOC with AV1 decode support most likely. That way they depreciate VP9 at the same time they add new features.saxifrage - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 - link
Supporting Chromecast Audio group playback will be game-changing for some of us. It's about time, but I wonder why that can't work on the existing hardware out there...cigar3tte - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 - link
I'm also curious how this would work, as the original Chromecast Audio has a stereo jack for traditional speakers, and I don't think the 3rd gen Chromecast has that.CheapSushi - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 - link
I'm guessing it's just for bluetooth speakers.