STACK #197 Mar 2021

LIFE TECH FEATURE

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CAST AWAY Back when TVs weren’t as smart as they are today, if you wanted to access streaming apps or cast pics of the family vacation to the telly, Google’s Chromecast device was your best friend. The puck-shaped dongle that revolutionised content choice and control has since evolved into Google Chromecast with Google TV, and now any television with a HDMI port can instantly become a Smart TV! WHAT’S DIFFERENT? Google Chromecast with

PICTURE AND SOUND Google Chromecast with Google TV offers a true HD experience, supporting 1080p and 4K UHD with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, although you will need a compatible 4K TV to enjoy the latter’s crystal clear resolution. And dependent upon your sound system’s compatibility, supported multi-channel audio formats include DTS, Dolby Audio, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Atmos.

Google TV combines the features of a Chromecast device with Android TV, which not only gives you a myriad of choice, but also allows you to consolidate subscription streaming services and recommendations, eliminating the need to switch between every Bruce Willis film after you’ve watched Die Hard , there’s the option to disable recommendations. Prior Chromecast devices required a smartphone or tablet to access content; now it’s even quicker and easier to choose. Simply connect Google Chromecast with Google TV and access what you want to watch through the TV interface via a remote control, which can also be used to control TV volume and power with CEC- HDMI-enabled models. The addition of Google Assistant not only provides voice control but will also let you integrate Google Chromecast with Google TV with other devices if your smart home is within the Google ecosystem. When added to the Google Home App and connected to a Nest security camera, for example, you can view real-time video, or more conveniently, access the live- feed from a video doorbell mid- movie to discover that the pizza has just arrived. You can also enjoy content from anywhere in the home when connected to a Google Nesthub Max. apps. And if you’re tired of algorithms suggesting

SETTING UP With a focus on usability, the Google

SMARTEN UP YOUR OLD TV Gone are the days of plugging in the laptop or purchasing a set top box to stream episodes of your favourite show on an ancient Plasma. As previously noted, the Google Chromecast with Google TV lets you access streaming services, YouTube, Freeview channels, and cast content to any TV that has an HDMI input. Perfect for the bedroom or granny flat.

Chromecast with Google TV couldn’t be simpler to install and operate. All you need is a Google Account, a TV with a HDMI port, and a Wi-Fi connection. Plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re good to go. And the voice control function makes navigation a cinch – even your tech-shy grandma can ask for the latest Midsomer Murders ep.

THE BOTTOM LINE With a user-friendly interface, voice control, smart home connectivity and the ability to aggregate subscription services, the Google Chromecast with Google TV is one of the best media streaming devices on the market, and excellent value for the price. You know you need one.

DID YOU KNOW?

BE OUR GUEST If you don’t want visitors snooping through your watchlist or knowing your Wi-Fi password, Guest Mode allows them to cast their favourite media to your Chromecast using a mobile device. Simply open the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet and enable Guest Mode in Settings. The guest can then open any Chromecast-enabled app on their device, tap the Cast button, select the Nearby device, and start watching. Note: If the devices don’t automatically synch, a 4-digit PIN can be entered to enable connection.

The Chromecast was conceived by an engineer named Majd Baker, whose wife A Shiny Idea

was using a laptop and gaming device to stream movies to the TV. Joining Google in 2011, he pitched the idea for the casting device and development commenced in 2012. The first-generation Chromecast was released in July 2013, resulting in fervent demand. By 2015, Chromecast became the number one streaming device in the US with users clocking up one billion casts.

58 MARCH 2021

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