Next-gen Google TV Streamer in development with built-in mics, report says
9to5Google reports the device adds presence sensing, a faster processor, more storage and a remote with two extra shortcut buttons.
Google is developing a next-generation Google TV Streamer, according to a report by 9to5Google. The device keeps the same general design as the current model but adopts a narrower, more compact footprint.
The new Streamer adds microphone cutouts on its slanted, pill-shaped surface, allowing it to listen for Hey Google commands. It also includes presence sensing — a feature TCL first brought to Google TV — while a faster processor and more storage than the current model's 32GB round out the reported changes.
The bundled remote gains two additional shortcut buttons alongside the existing YouTube and Netflix buttons, per the report. The Find My Remote button stays on the back of the streaming device.
Earlier context
Last year, TCL launched the first Google TV with presence sensing, which turns on the Google Photos screensaver when someone enters the room. There was a four-year gap between the Chromecast with Google TV 4K and the Google TV Streamer, with the lower-end HD dongle arriving in between. In August, Google raised the price of the existing Google TV Streamer by $50.
No launch timing for the next Google TV Streamer has been reported.
Quick answers
What new features does the next-generation Google TV Streamer have?
According to 9to5Google, it has built-in microphones for Hey Google commands, presence sensing, a faster processor, more storage than the current 32GB model, and a remote with two extra shortcut buttons.
When will the next Google TV Streamer launch?
No launch timing has been reported.