Chromecast is a line of digital media players developed by Google. The device, designed as a small dongle, allows users with a mobile device or personal computer to start and control playback of audio-visual content streamed on the Internet on high definition television or home audio systems via mobile and web applications that support Google Cast technology. Alternatively, content can be mirrored from the Google Chrome web browser running on a personal computer, as well as from the screens of some Android devices.
The first generation Chromecast, a video streaming device, was announced on July 24, 2013, and is available for purchase on the same day in the United States for US $ 35. Second-generation Chromecast and audio-only models called Chromecast Audio were released in September 2015. The so- Chromecast Ultra that supports 4K resolution and high dynamic range released in November 2016.
Critics praise the simplicity and potential of Chromecast for future app support. Google Cast SDK was released on February 3, 2014, allowing third parties to modify their software to work with Chromecast and other Cast recipients. According to Google, more than 20,000 Google Cast-ready apps are available, as of May 2015. More than 30 million units have been sold globally since launch, making Chromecast the best-selling streaming device in the United States by 2014, according to the NPD Group. Starting the Chromecast launch until May 2015, it has handled more than 1.5 billion streaming requests.
Video Chromecast
Features and operations
Chromecast offers two methods for streaming content: first using mobile and web apps that support Google Cast technology; the latter allows the reflection of content from the Google Chrome web browser running on a personal computer, as well as content displayed on multiple Android devices. In both cases, playback starts via the "cast" button on the sending device.
When no content is streamed, Chromecast video-capable of displaying user-customizable content feeds called "Backdrop" that can include personal photos and photos, artwork, weather, satellite imagery, weather forecasts, and news.
December 2015 update for Chromecast Audio introduces support for high-resolution audio (24-bit/96Ã, kHz) and multi-space playback; users can simultaneously play audio on multiple Chromecast Audio devices in different locations by grouping them together using the Google Home mobile app. This feature makes Chromecast Audio a low-cost alternative to Sonos's multiple music system rooms.
If the TV HDMI port supports the Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature, pressing the transmission button will also result in a video-enabled Chromecast automatically turning on the TV and switching the live TV audio/video input using the "One Touch Playback" CEC command.
Maps Chromecast
Hardware and design
The Chromecast device is an empowered dongle by connecting the device's micro-USB port to an external power source or USB port. A video Chromecast adapter that can be connected to an HDMI port from a television or high-definition monitor, while the audio-only model outputs only through the integrated 3.5/mini-TOSLINK audio jack/socket. By default, Chromecast connects to the Internet through a Wi-Fi connection to a user's local network; a standalone USB power supply with an Ethernet port, which was introduced in July 2015 for US $ 15, enables wired connections.
First generation
The original Chromecast measures 2.83 inches (72 mm) and has an HDMI plug built into the body. It contains the Marvell Armada 1500-mini 88DE3005 system on a chip running the ARM Cortex-A9 processor. SoCs include codecs for hardware decoding of VP8 and H.264 video compression formats. Radio communication is handled by AzureWave NH-387 Wi-Fi which implements 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz). This device has 512 MB of Micron DDR3L RAM and 2 GB of flash storage.
The H2G2-42 model number might be a reference to the Hitchhiker Guide for Galaxy abbreviation "H2G2" - in the novel, the number 42 is "Answers to the Main Question of Life, the Universe", and all. "The bundled power adapter is charged model number of MST3K-AS, possibly a reference to the Mystery Science Theater series .
Second generation
The second generation Chromecast has a disc-shaped body with a short HDMI cable length attached (as opposed to an HDMI plug built into the original model). The cable is flexible and can magnetically stick to the body of the device for the positioning option behind the television. The second generation model uses Marvell Armada 1500 Mini Plus 88DE3006 SoC, which has a dual ARM Cortex-A7 processor running at 1.2 GHz. This unit contains Avastar 88W8887, which has improved Wi-Fi performance and offers support for 802.11Ã, ac band and 5Ã, GHz bands, while containing three adaptive antennas for better connections to home routers. This device contains 512 MB Samsung DDR3L RAM and 256 MB flash storage.
The NC2-6A5 model number may be a reference to the "NCC-1701" registry number from the fictional USS Enterprise franchise of the Star Trek franchise: NC 2 can be read as NCC, and 6A5 converted from hexadecimal is 1701.
Chromecast Audio
Chromecast Audio is a second generation Chromecast variation designed for use with audio streaming applications. In lieu of the second-generation flexible HDMI cables there is a 3.5-millimeter/mini-socket integrated mini-socket TOSLINK, which allows Chromecast Audio to be plugged into speakers and home audio systems. One side of this device is inscribed with a circular groove, resembling a phonograph record.
The RUX-J42 model number may be a reference to the Jimi Hendrix Are You Experienced , "RU eXperienced", and Midnight Lightning , which has internal J-42 code. Chromecast Audio also developed with the internal Hendrix codename.
Chromecast Ultra
Ultra Chromecast is similar in design to the second generation model, but features enhanced hardware that support 4K content content streaming, as well as high dynamic range via HDR10 and Dolby Vision formats. Google claims that Chromecast Ultra loads videos 1.8 times faster than previous models. Unlike previous models that can be powered through a USB port, Chromecast Ultra requires the use of an included power supply to connect to a wall outlet. The power supply also offers an Ethernet port for wired connection to accommodate the fast network speed required to stream 4K content.
Model comparison
Software
Google Cast SDK and compatible apps
At the launch of Chromecast, four compatible apps are available: YouTube and Netflix are supported as Android, iOS, and the Chrome web app; Google Play Music and Google Play Movies & amp; TV is also supported, but initially only as an Android app. Additional Chromecast-enabled apps will require access to Google Cast software development tools (SDKs). The SDK was first released as a preview version on July 24, 2013. Google recommends interested developers to use the SDK to create and test applications that enabled Chromecast, but not to distribute it. While the strike remains valid, Chromecast-enabled apps for Hulu Plus and Pandora Radio were released in October 2013, and HBO Go in November. Google opens the SDK for all developers on February 3, 2014. In the preliminary documentation and video presentation, Google says the SDK works with Chromecast devices and other nameless "transmitting devices". Chromecast product manager Rish Chandra says that Google uses intervention time to improve the reliability of the SDK and accommodate developers who are looking for a quick and easy way to transmit photos to television without much coding.
Over time, many apps have been updated to support Chromecast. At Google I/O 2014, the company announced that 6,000 registered developers are working on 10,000 Google Cast apps; at the following year's conference, the number of compatible apps has doubled. Lists of Google's official compatible apps and platforms are available on the Chromecast website. Google has published a case study documenting Chromecast integration by Comedy Central, Just Dance Now, Haystack TV and Fitnet.
The development template has two components: the sending app based on an existing vendor's Android or iOS mobile app, or desktop Web app, providing users with the discovery of content and media control; and recipient applications, which run in an environment such as the Chrome browser on the receiving device. Both use APIs provided by the SDK.
Device discovery protocol
Chromecast uses the mDNS (multicast Domain Name System) protocol to search for devices available on Wi-Fi networks. Previous Chromecasts use DIAL (DIscovery And Launch) protocol, co-developed by Netflix and YouTube.
Operating system
At the preliminary press conference, Mario Queiroz, Deputy Director of Google Product Management, said that the first generation Chromecast runs a "simplified version of Chrome OS". Furthermore, the hacking team reports that the device is "more Android than ChromeOS" and appears to be adapted from software embedded on Google TV. Like Chrome OS devices, Chromecast's operating system updates are automatically downloaded without notice.
Mobile app
Chromecast is managed through the Google Home app, which allows users to organize new devices and configure existing ones (like specify images "Which background view is displayed when no other content is thrown in.) Users can also search for streaming content available in Google apps Cast is enabled. This app manages other Google Cast supported devices, including the Google Home smart speaker.
Originally simply called "Chromecast", the app was released alongside the original Chromecast video model and is available for both Android and iOS mobile devices. This app was released outside the US in October 2013.
As of May 2016, the Chromecast app is renamed Google Cast due to the proliferation of non-Chromecast products that support transmission. In October 2016, Google Cast was renamed Google Home, the name also given to smart corporate speakers - leaving "Google Cast" as the technology name.
Release and promotion
Google made the first generation Chromecast available for purchase online in the US on July 24, 2013. To lure consumers, Google initially included a three-month promotion of access to Netflix at no cost with the purchase of Chromecast. Devices are quickly sold out at Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, and Google Play, and within 24 hours, Netflix promotion ends due to high demand. On March 18, 2014, Google released Chromecast into 11 new markets, including UK, Germany and Canada with BBC iPlayer enabled for users in the UK.
In July 2014, to commemorate the first anniversary of the launch of the device, Google announced it would offer their music streaming service, Google Play Music All Access, at no cost for 90 days to Chromecast owners who previously did not use All Access; the fee is usually US $ 9.99 per month. On December 10, 2014, Chromecast is launched in India via Snapdeal Marketplace e-commerce in partnership with Bharti Airtel. In the same month, Google offers promotions where anyone who buys Chromecast from participating retailers before December 21 will receive a US $ 20 credit for the Google Play Store. Google offers a credit of US $ 6 to the Store for all Chromecast owners starting February 6, 2015.
On September 29, 2015, Google announced its second generation Chromecast and audio model just called Chromecast Audio. Each model is available for purchase on the same day for US $ 35. A few days later, Amazon.com announces that it will ban the sale of Chromecast and Apple TV devices, probably because they compete with Amazon's Fire TV and Fire TV Stick.
On October 4, 2016, Google announced Chromecast Ultra during the "Made by Google" event, along with other products like Google Home, Google Wifi, and Daydream Views.
Reception
First generation model
Nilay Patel from The Verge gave Chromecast a score of 8.5/10 in his review, saying, "Chromecast is basically an impulse purchase that happens to be the simplest, cheapest, and best solution to get a browser window on your TV." Speaking of adapter potential, he said, "it looks like Chromecast might actually generate all that potential, but Google still has a lot of work to do." In particular, Patel pointed to Apple's AirPlay protocol as an example of an established competitor with more features. The TechCrunch review of the device says, "Even with a bug or two that raises its head, Chromecast is easily worth $ 35." Gizmodo gives a positive review tool, highlighting the ease of video setup and sharing. In comparing devices with competitors, the review says, "Chromecast is not Google's version of Apple TV, and it's not trying to be... But Chromecast also spends a third of what the device does, and has a lot of potential because its new SDK a few days old. "
Michael Gorman from Engadget gave Chromecast a score of 84/100, writes, "this is a platform that tends to increase dramatically as more applications start supporting the technology." In comparing Chromecast with competing devices, Gorman illustrates that initially the support of fewer multimedia services, but because of its low cost and ease of use, he concluded "we can whole-heartedly recommend Chromecast to anyone looking for an easy, unheard-of way annoying to put some brains into their stupid TV. "Will Greenwald from PC Magazine give a 4/5 rating, saying," Google Chromecast is the most expensive way to access online services on your HDTV ", although he notes that "The absence of local playback and limited Chrome Integration holds it in some way." David Pogue of The New York Times praised the device for a $ 35 retail price, saying, "It's a good price for what this gadget is, and it will look better and better more video apps are made to work with it. "Pogue notes the limitations of the screen mirroring feature device and say simply using a mobile device as a remote control is not "very graceful", but he calls Chromecast "the cheapest, cheapest, and simplest way to add Internet to your TV".
Sales and impacts
In July 2014, Google announced that in the first year of device sales, "millions" of units have been sold and over 400 million prints have been made. The number of casts exceeded one billion in January 2015 and 1.5 billion in May 2015. The company insists that Chromecast is the best-selling media streaming device in the United States by 2014, according to the NPD Group. In February 2015, Google Korea announced that about 10 million Chromecast has been sold globally by 2014. At Google I/O in May 2015, the company announced 17 million units have been sold since launch, a figure of 20 million in September 2015, 25 million by May 2016 and 30 million by July 2016. According to Strategy Analytics, Chromecast captures more than 35% of the international streamer market internationally by 2015. Since October 2017, more than 55 million Chromecast and Chromecast devices have been sold.
Digital Trend called Chromecast "Best Product 2013". In March 2014, Engadget awarded Chromecast Award-winning Chromecast for "House Theater Products of the Year" as part of the website's annual awards; for the following year award, Engadget named the winning device "Best in Home Entertainment".
In July 2015, Google signed an agreement with the Television Academy to award Chromecast to Emmy Award voters to enable them to see the nominated media filter. The multi-year agreement will reduce the volume of DVD filtering distributed each year.
See also
- Comparison of digital media players
- Android TV
- Google TV
- Chromebit
- PC-on-a-stick
References
External links
- The official Chromecast website
- List of Google from Google Cast-enabled apps
- Official Google Home App for Android on Google Play Store
- Official Google Home App for iOS on Apple App Store
- Specification and Registry DIAL Protocol
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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