Google has launched a new Chromecast media device which when connected to the HDMI port of your TV will allow you to wirelessly connect to mobile devices. This will allow you to watch the videos and web content from your mobile devices on the bigger TV screens.
The Chromecast device brings AirPlay like feature that will allow both Android and iOS devices to connect to your TV sets. The best thing about it is that instead of charging hefty, Google has made the device available for purchase for only $35. Also, Google is giving three months of Netflix service completely for free for new as well as present subscribers to a customer who purchases a Chromecast.
The device will be available on sale from July 28 from various online shops such as Amazon, Google Play and others. The small HDMI dongle can be easily plugged into any TV that comes with HDMI slot. It needs to be powered with USB power which can be done by using the boxed power plug or through USB port. It is very simple to use. After connecting the device to the TV, it automatically connects to the Wi-Fi router and it can also connect automatically to other Wi-Fi enabled devices. This allows you to watch the videos and photos stored on your phone through your TV.
Many companies like TiVo, Roku and even giants like Apple and Microsoft have tried their luck at developing hardware that allows people to view internet and content on TV sets. However, none of the devices have attained much popularity. Even Google has made two attempts before and now it comes with Chromecast with an attractively low price.
The reason why this form of technology has not gained popularity is because it has been plagued with many technical issues, awkward user controls and it is not easy to acquire program rights. Hence, Internet TV is still struggling to attract people even though it is a wonderful technology.
The reason why Internet TV is being offered by many companies like Google and Apple is that even though smartphones, tablets and laptops are quite popular, still people prefer to spend some hours a day watching television.
Google unraveled the Chromecast device during a press meet which was the same event when Google unleashed the next gen Nexus 7 2. Chromecast is quite cheap compared to Apple TV which is priced at $99. However, the Apple TV has got comparatively more features and apps for the device.
Some tech analysts are not sure whether the device will gain much popularity. There are many companies that are offering set-top boxes and internet hardware devices. Currently, the Xbox One has become very popular because it is not only a gaming console but also a complete family entertainer which lets people to watch TV on it. However, going by the price of Chromecast, it can surprisingly achieve success.