Skip to main content

Google may be working on a new Chromecast Ultra with an external remote

Google’s Chromecast Ultra, the popular streaming device that separated itself from the rest of the pack by forgoing a remote in lieu of your own connected device, is reportedly making a comeback. And it’s adding a remote.

According to a report by 9to5Google, a second-generation Chromecast Ultra featuring Android TV is in the works at Google, and it may be released later this year. The device will reportedly continue to have a dongle-like design but will add the first external remote in the history of the Chromecast lineup.

The 9to5Google report says the news came from “a reliable source familiar with the company’s plans.” Google has not officially confirmed any news relating to a new Chromecast device. However, Protocol’s Janko Roettgers spotted a Federal Communications Commission filing for a Google remote for an unknown device. While this isn’t verified confirmation, it’s a promising sign that Google is developing its next streaming device.

Hmmmm… a Google Remote for an unknown device just passed through the FCC… https://t.co/nz0xBG8AtL pic.twitter.com/6gEQ35nR7g

— Janko Roettgers (@jank0) March 10, 2020

According to 9to5Google, the second-generation Ultra will support 4K HDR content, which is essentially expected of streaming devices these days. The report claims the remote will have a microphone and a dedicated Google Assistant button, and will be able to control your TV as well.

The report’s source also said the new Chromecast Ultra will be similar in design to the third-generation Chromecast that was released in 2018, with a rounder finish, a standard “G” logo and an HDMI connector resembling the current Chromecast Ultra.

Since this is an unconfirmed report on an unannounced product, there isn’t any available information regarding pricing or release date. Google could have launched it at Google I/O 2020, but the May 12 to 14 event was scrapped as concerns over the coronavirus continue to grow. With Google joining the ranks of tech companies scrambling as a result of cancellations, we’ll have to wait and see when Google decides to launch its newer devices, and if a new Chromecast Ultra may be among them.

The original Chromecast Ultra competed in a streaming market that included standouts like the Roku Ultra, Amazon Fire TV and Nvidia Shield. The Chromecast platform’s casting ability — allowing you to send almost everything you’re watching on your phone, tablet or computer to your TV — was a unique quality among the rest of the competition, and the cheaper Chromecast has been our pick for best casting streaming device.

Editors' Recommendations

Nick Woodard
Former Digital Trends Contributor
  As an A/V Staff Writer at Digital Trends, Nick Woodard covers topics that include 4K HDR TVs, headphones…
What is Android TV? Google’s smart TV platform fully explained
The Android TV interface on a TV.

Living in the same camp as Samsung's Smart TV Hub, LG's WebOS, and Vizio's SmartCast, Android TV is a smart TV system designed and engineered by Google and used across a variety of TV brands from Sony and Hisense to TCL. Featuring Google Assistant support, the ability to "cast" apps from a compatible device to your TV, and a range of other features, Android TV is a top dog in the world of TV streaming, but what truly sets it apart from the range of other smart TV platforms?

Even with Google's latest Google TV interface set to replace Android TV by the end of 2022, the popular media streaming platform is still relevant and worth explaining. Here's everything you need to know about Android TV.
An important note on Android TV and Google TV

Read more
Google’s new website wants to make your job interviews easy
best job search apps for ios and android interview

Google might be a go-to place for looking for employment and advice on writing resumes, but the search engine giant now has one more way to help you land your dream job.

Recently launched by Google was "Interview Warmup," a website that can help make practicing for your job interviews easy. Just like the name suggests, Interview Warmup is a quick way to prepare for job interviews. Rather than record yourself with your webcam, or stand in front of a mirror, it has three core ways of helping you: Practicing, insights, as well as improving or helping build confidence.

Read more
Check out Google’s stunning new Mountain View campus
Google's Bay View campus in Mountain View, California.

Around 4,000 Google employees are moving into the company’s plush new Mountain View campus this week.

The tech giant showed off the new site in a video (below) that also offers lots of insight about the stunning design.

Read more