Google is preparing a new Chromecast with a more practical remote control

Google could unveil an updated version of Chromecast. This would be accompanied by a new remote control which would incorporate new buttons. Very practical, one of them would be programmable to launch any application. The existence of this remote control was discovered in the latest beta version of Android TV 14.

Google is primarily known for its software: operating system, applications or web services. Android, Chrome, Search, Maps, Gmail, etc. But the firm also has a varied hardware offer, especially since the acquisition of Nestof Fitbit and part of the HTC teams. Smartphones, headphones, tablets, connected watches and bracelets, Nest Hub, etc. Without forgetting the famous Chromecast.

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The latter is a very clever product: it allows you to transform any screen with an HDMI socket into a smart TV. Inexpensive, this accessory is regularly renewed. The last was formalized in 2022. And we tested this Chromecast. And we had two observations: the dongle is more practical thanks to its remote control delivered with; but the integration of Android TV makes the product less current. In 10 years, the concept has taken a turn for the worse and we expect Google to bring the idea back into line with today’s needs.

Google is preparing a Chromecast with a new remote control

And this may be the case this year. Indeed, several clues suggest that a new Chromecast could arrive with Android 14TV. In the beta version of the operating system for connected televisions, our colleagues from Android Central have discovered several information about a product update. In particular, they found a video document from which the image below is taken. This video presents the outlines of a new remote control.

Even if the design seems to remain similar with its rounded shapes at the ends, this new remote control differs from the previous one in different ways. She is more elongated. And some keys are now elongated vertically or horizontally. Also, some shortcuts will change.

In particular, there will be a key (the one with a star on the diagram) which will be customizable: you will be able to choose which app you launch by tapping on it. It’s much more practical than the keys dedicated to certain streaming services that you find with the current Chromecast or with all the connected televisions on the market (like that of Sony’s Bravia). This means that you will be able to access your favorite streaming service more quickly or open any other application installed on the Chromecast (like VLC for example…). The possibilities are numerous.