Aug 6, 2024
Media Streamers
Google just announced a new streaming device called the Google TV streamer. I took a look at it and it's Lux, but let's talk about what it can do before this Google had chromecast and the TV streamer builds on that concept, but the device isn't just about streaming. It also makes the TV sort of the control panel of your home. You can see your home security cameras in the preview menu bar or you can blow them up into a larger screen, you can adjust your thermostat, change the lighting in your house even lower the blinds. The TV cannot even tell you when your washer is done. Of course, this being good, they're going to integrate their A I Gemini into the product, for example, by making recommendations for shows and movies based on your watch history and things like that. But you can also ask it questions that are more subjective, like show me a movie that feels like vacation. And of course, this being a slightly higher end device that'll cost you a little bit more. It includes four khdr and Dolby Vision and atmos as well for higher quality streaming. I mentioned at the beginning that the design of this device was Lux. And that's because it sort of looks like a pod that's meant to sit just in front of your TV and not be an eyesore as you're watching, it'll come in two different colors, porcelain and hazel. Although hazel will only be available in the US. One thing I particularly like about this remote is that there's one customizable button instead of it being overloaded with streaming services that you may or may not subscribe to Netflix, HBO, Max Hulu. You can set the remote to go directly to your favorite app. One of the most useful functions of TV remotes today that I really like to see is the remote finder button that'll let you press a button and it'll ding your remote. So you're not searching around for it for ages. This device is going to cost $100 which is a little bit more than your average streaming device like a Roku or a stick. And it'll be available September 24th and there will be a preorder. So you can follow this story to see more details about that. Once they're announced, my overall impression of this device is that it is expensive at $100. But if you have a smart home with multiple linked devices, this turns your TV into kind of a control panel and that in itself could be valuable. This product doesn't actually come out till next month, but leave a comment and let us know what you think of it. I'm Bella and thanks for watching.