After more than a decade, Google is retiring the Chromecast to make way for its new Google TV Streamer. Launched in 2013, the Chromecast was a hit due to its ability to stream content from phones thanger at a time when TV apps were slow and limited.

However, with the introduction of Chromecast with Google TV in 2020, Google shifted towards a more traditional entertainment experience, emphasizing content recommendations and native apps over casting.

The new Google TV Streamer builds on this approach by integrating Gemini AI, offering smart home controls directly on the TV screen, and promising faster performance. "It is blazingly fast, so it’s a more premium model than what we’ve been releasing before," said Shalini Govil-Pai, VP and GM of Google TV. The $99 device will be available in late September.

Govil-Pai explained that the decision to move away from Chromecast was influenced by user feedback and market trends. While Chromecast was popular for its affordability, similar low-cost devices are now widely available from other brands like Walmart, Amazon, and Roku. This prompted Google to focus on a higher-end device, aiming to match the performance of the Nvidia Shield, a top-tier Android TV streamer.

Despite some initial disappointment over the Google TV Streamer's 22% CPU speed boost, Google believes the device offers a competitive balance of performance and cost. The Streamer also features double the RAM of its predecessor, which should enhance long-term performance.

The Google TV Streamer is designed to be a future-proof smart home hub, with features like the Google Home panel for controlling lights, cameras, and automations, as well as support for Matter and a built-in Thread border router. New software capabilities include generative AI screensavers and voice-activated photo displays.

Additionally, the Streamer will provide detailed summaries of shows and movies, aggregating feedback from various sources to offer more nuanced recommendations. One of the simplest yet most appreciated new features is a remote finder button on the back of the unit, which makes the remote emit a beeping sound when pressed.