Google has in the past used a multi-prong approach to smart TV, with the Chromecast serving as nothing more than a box accepting streams from other devices, and some sets launching with Android TV built-in. That ends with the Chromecast with Google TV ($50). While it resembles past Chromecast devices, it runs new software dubbed Google TV that aims to consolidate all the various streaming services into a single unified interface with over 30 supported apps. It supports 4K HDR streaming, Google Assistant voice commands and ships with a new nice-looking remote.
The current situation dictates that the majority of us stay home. While that makes ideal conditions for you know - binge-watching, that also means you might not have anyone to binge with. Enter Netflix Party. This Chrome extension lets you create private "parties", complete with chat rooms, that allow you to invite friends to enjoy Netflix shows and movies together over the Internet in real-time. Not as fun as meeting up in real life, but certainly better than getting sick risking a trip to make that happen. It only works with Chrome browser and Extension installed.
If you're looking for other streaming sites/extensions like Netflix Party see below:
This is for all the cat lovers with Google Mini's. Odd-on Industries just launched Caat ($20) - a cute cat shaped silicone skin for your Google Home Mini. Caat is a new and fun accessory and transforms your smart speaker into a customizable pet friend for the home and is available in multiple colors - white, black and red.
Google has just combined its Nest and Home divisions, creating Google Nest that encompasses all the company's smart home efforts. It does makes sense that their first new product would be a combination of both Google and Nest. The Google Nest Home Max Smart Display ($229) combines elements of the Google Home Max speaker, Google Home Hub display, and Nest Camera into a single package. It has a 10" HD display, a 6.5-megapixel camera, stereo speakers with a dedicated sub-woofer, and Google Assistant built in. Thus it can act as a controller for other smart devices in the house, a video chat station, a speaker, and if you want, a mini TV. Shipping later this summer 2019. Check out more info on Google.
Gone are the days of buying a new gaming console every few years. With Google's Stadia platform, the data center is your console. It provides near-instant streaming of games at 60 frames-per-second in up to 4K HDR quality across laptops, desktops, phones, tablets, and TVs with a minimum of 25mbps connections. While it works with existing controllers, a special Stadia controller will offer a direct WiFi connection to the cloud for easier screen-to-screen transitions, a dedicated streaming button. Just one of the many ways the service will tie into YouTube and give a dedicated Google Assistant button with special help options specifically for Stadia games. Arriving later this year, with further details, including pricing, expected this summer.
The Google Home Hub ($149) which is powered by Google Assistant with its smallish countertop appliance has a 7-inch display with a speaker as its base. Its speaker sound is to be on par with the Google Home. It performs the usual tasks, like setting timers and answering general questions, can stream media from YouTube, Spotify, and Pandora, amongst others, and is a perfect digital frame for Google Photos with its new ambient light technology. It also gives you an overview of any compatible smart devices you have in your home. Perhaps most impressive? It lacks a camera, so there's no worry of it spying on you, and a Mute button in the back completely shuts off the mics, further ensuring your privacy. If you buy a Google Home Hub you also get 6 months free of Youtube Premium and Youtube Music.
