New 4K Chromecast with Google TV is coming

In March, we reported that Google was working on a new Chromecast running Android, and 9to5Google can now confirm that it will be the sequel to 2020’s Chromecast with Google TV 4K.

According to a source, Google is preparing to launch a new Chromecast with Google TV. It will retain the 4K resolution of the current $49.99 model and come with a new remote control.

This comes almost four years after the introduction of the original model and almost two years after the HD follow-up that some hoped would be a new high-end model. (By the way, following the $19.99 flash sale after $10 off, the Chromecast with Google TV HD is out of stock at many retailers.)

We’re finally getting this Chromecast with the Google TV 4K replacement. The 2020 model features a 1.9GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 (Amlogic S905X3) with 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. This latter specification has been a sticking point, while performance can only be described as good.

What we get this year will surely be an upgrade, but keep in mind the price point Google is trying to achieve with its streaming dongles. One possible use of the chip is the Amlogic S905X5 announced last September. This is two generations older than the chip in the current Chromecast 4K, with a more efficient 6nm process (instead of 12nm) and AV1 support.

Meanwhile, last year, the Android TV 14 beta revealed a new Chromecast voice remote. A video included with the build showed something that had the same pill-shaped design with a D-pad on top but more buttons. The volume rocker on the right edge has been moved to the face of the remote, while there’s a new star/’magic’ button, which could give users a personalized shortcut.

Speaking of OS, the current model remains on Android 12, with Android 14 being the most likely upgrade after Google ditched Android TV 13. Recent updates have added Fast Pair, an audio output switcher and home screen adjustments.