Google has decided to discontinue the Chromecast brand after 11 years, but it isn't exiting the streaming device market. Instead, the company is introducing the Google TV Streamer, a new product designed to compete with high-end streaming devices like the Apple TV and Roku Ultra.

The Google TV Streamer is not merely an upgrade but a significant step forward with several new features:

- Price: Priced at $100, it replaces the $50 4K Chromecast with Google TV USB dongle released in 2020.
- Performance: It boasts a processor that is up to 22 percent faster than its predecessor, along with twice the RAM (4GB) and four times the storage (32GB).
- Video and Audio: The device supports 4K streaming at 60 fps, has an HDMI 2.1a port, HDR support (Dolby Vision), and spatial audio (Dolby Atmos).
- Connectivity: It includes an Ethernet port, an addition not found in the previous dongles.
- AI Features: The Streamer comes with Google Gemini AI features, enabling it to summarize or review TV episodes and seasons on demand. It can also create personalized watchlists based on recommendations for each household member.
- Smart Home Integration: Serving as a smart home hub, it supports Thread and Matter integration, allowing control over Google Home and Matter-compliant devices such as cameras and thermostats.
- Thread Support: It includes a built-in Thread border router for improved connectivity.

Despite these advancements, the device does not include an HDMI cable in the box, which may necessitate an extra purchase for some users, though many already have HDMI cables available.

The Google TV Streamer was announced alongside a new Nest Learning Thermostat, part of Google's effort to renew interest in the Nest smart home product line. Preorders for the Streamer began today, with shipping starting on September 26.

This new device marks a significant upgrade from previous Chromecast models, offering enhanced performance and extensive smart home capabilities.