Updated Google Chromecast, all-new Chromecast Audio now official

With this new dongle, Google is allowing users to stream music using speakers they already own, thus bringing a much more affordable option into the market that will likely worry the likes of Sonos.

But the most important innovations on the new Chromecast are on the inside with improved connectivity, improved antenna system and support for Wi-fi 802.11ac (5GHz band). While it costs $35, just like the original one, this new device is, in many ways, a lot better than the older one. You can browse through the Chromecast dashboard on your phone, while the video being cast is playing on your TV.

With Chromecast a hit for video, Google made a decision to give audio the same treatment. There’s also the ability for anyone on your home network to control any Chromecast device, so you can both flick through the playlist.

The original Chromecast was a plug-in for TVs that slotted into an HDMi port, enabling users to connect to and stream content from a mobile device to the bigger screen.

Google also launches its Chromecast for Audio device is the same shape and size as the new Chromecast, except it’s only available in black and has vinyl-record-like grooves. Google is also updating the Chromecast mobile app to make it easier to discover content through a “what’s on” section that shows a list of compatible apps and movies, TV shows, or other content available. Today, Google is updating Chromecast and also introducing an entirely new streaming device dedicated to audio, Chromecast Audio.

Similar to the new hardware, the second-generation Chromcast comes with an upgraded software that supports services like Spotify, BBC iPlayer Radio and Chrome Photos apart from YouTube.

It’s no secret that Chromecast has been a big success for Google.

Chromecast will work with Google’s photos feature. A new feature called “Fast Play” pre-fetches content before you press the play button, cutting down on buffering times.

With a focus on audio, you can expect the usual suspects when it comes to streaming over WiFi like Google Play Music, Pandora, and any app that supports casting. Chromecast Audio supports high-quality audio, 2 watt RMS and an optional optical digital out that sits in the hybrid port. Plus it doesn’t compress audio and thereby, wouldn’t compromise on audio quality.

Chromecast Audio is also priced at $35.