What's new in the latest Google Chromecast

Launched on Tuesday at the Google Pixel event, Chromecast Ultra, boasts of advanced features like 4K and High Dynamic Range (HDR) support, faster speed and Wi-Fi improvements.

Google announced the much awaited launch of Pixel, the first ‘Made by Google’ phone. The other launches of the day include Daydream – platform for high quality mobile VR; Google Home – voice-activated speaker powered by Google Assistant; and Chromecast Ultra – the new Chromecast with 4K and HDR support.

Also read: Pixel, the first ‘Made by Google’ smartphone to open for pre-orders in India on October 13

The features of the new Chromecast include:

Deeper colors

Chromecast Ultra supports 4K, HDR and Dolby Vision, and gives a crisper picture with higher resolution and more vibrant colors. Right now, users can stream 4K content from Netflix, YouTube and Vudu. Later this year, Google Play Movies & TV will be rolling out 4K content. Even if a TV isn’t 4K-ready, Chromecast Ultra automatically optimizes TV’s picture.

Faster Chromecast, with optional Ethernet port

Chromecast Ultra loads videos 1.8 times faster than other Chromecast devices and includes major Wi-Fi improvements to support streams from full HD to Ultra HD without a hitch. For tricky Wi-Fi environments, Google is adding Ethernet support for a wired connection.

Old features

Users can cast the content from thousands of apps using your phone, tablet or laptop. They can mirror any content from their Android device or from a browser tab (using Chrome) to the TV.

Works with Google Home

Google Home, the voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant, can control smart home devices, including Chromecast. Combined with Chromecast or Chromecast Ultra, Google Home can control TV — completely hands free.

Google Chromecast Ultra will be available for pre-order in November in US. India launch hasn't been announced yet.

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