Google unveiled its 2018 version of Chromecast dongle for media streaming alongside the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL at its hardware event yesterday. While the company is yet to reveal the availability details of the new Chromecast in India, e-commerce portal, Flipkart has listed the product at a price of Rs 3,499. This isn't a surprise considering both the original Chromecast and Chromecast 2 arrived in India sooner after the launch. That said, the listing currently says the product is out of stock at the moment and Google India Store too did not list the product as of this writing. In the US, the 2018 edition of Chromecast will retail for $35, which is exactly the same launch price of Chromecast 2 device.
Google Chromecast 2018: Features
The 2018 version of Chromecast is a decent upgrade compared to the Chromecast 2 that was launched a couple of years ago. However, it doesn't match the Chromecast Ultra in terms of features because it's the search giant's top-of-the-line media streaming product right now. The new Chromecast has support for 60fps streaming at 60fps but lacks 4K resolution which the Chromecast Ultra offers. Google has also added support for Chromecast Audio technology support to the newly updated device.
Google claims the third-generation Chromecast offers 15% better performance compared to the Chromecast 2. That being said, it's a minor improvement over the second generation Chromecast. Talking about the Chromecast Audio, it will allow a user to control playback music in sync with other speakers connected to Google's devices.
Connectivity options on the third-generation Chromecast include Wi-Fi 802.11ac- both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks support has been added this time around, HDMI interface and a Micro USB connector for power supply. Yes, it still features a Micro USB port unlike what rumours suggested. Users will also get an optional Ethernet adapter with this new device. The update will work with devices running Android, iOS, macOS, Windows and ChromeOS. Google also stated the new device would work with Google's Home range of speakers such as Google Home, Home Mini and Home Max, and other smart home electronic products.
As for the design, the new Chromecast looks identical to its predecessor Chromecast 2. But the new Chromecast has a matte finish on top instead of the glossy one its predecessor had. It comes in Chalk and Charcoal colour options.
Google Chromecast 2018: Pricing in India and Other Details
The third-generation Chromecast is already listed on Flipkart for Rs 3,499, which could be the final price of the product. Notably, the Chromecast 2 is now retailing for Rs 1,999 in the country. Google is yet to reveal the availability details of the product in India.
The Google Chromecast 2018 is already available for purchase via Google Store in some countries such as Australia, Canada, Denmark, Great Britain, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, and other countries.
