It seems that the Google TV Streamer is proving to be more of a hit than Google thought. The device is the next-generation Chromecast product, completely taking over the “Chromecast” branding. It’s also the first device of its kind to integrate Android TV 14 out of the box. However, Google TV Streamer shipping is experiencing delays from multiple retailers, including the Google Store.
Google Store will ship Google TV Stream devices in October (or November)
Ironically, the Google Store appears to be the retailer with the longest shipping delays for the Google TV Streamer. 9to5Google reports that the website shows an estimated delivery date of between October 24-25 and October 25-28 for states like North Carolina and California, respectively. These dates correspond to the standard “Porcelain” colorway. The Google Store-exclusive “Hazel” colorway has even further out shipping dates (November 14-22 and November 8-17 for the same respective destinations).
The Google TV Streamer only hit stores yesterday, suggesting the delay is due to higher demand than available units. As for other retailers, Amazon is also experiencing shipping delays for the Google TV Streamer, but only by a week (or a bit more). Amazon also does not offer the option of faster shipping with Prime.
That said, if you just want to buy the device as quickly as possible, there are a few options. The source indicates that Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe’s Hardware have immediate availability of the Google TV Streamer for in-store pickup (limited availability at Lowe’s Hardware). If you want it shipped to your address, Best Buy processes the order in 2-3 days, Home Depot does it in 5-7 days, and Lowe’s Hardware takes 1-3 days.
The device’s improvements (and one drawback)
The Google TV Streamer brings some key improvements compared to Chromecast dongles. The new set-top box form factor offers additional space for more ports and components, such as an Ethernet, a USB-C, and even a Thread radio to control Matter-based smart home ecosystems. Google claims that the device is 22% more powerful than the Chromecast with Google TV (4K).
The Google TV Streamer features 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage for downloading your favorite streaming apps and casual games. There’s also native support for Dolby Atmos. The new remote is similar to the old one, but now includes a customizable button and a handy “Find My Remote” feature that you can trigger with a button on the set-top box. While the device should offer a seamless streaming experience, there are some aspects that could have been better. For instance, the product uses WiFi 5 instead of WiFi 6.
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