Tech Made Simple

Hot Topics: Enter Our Apple HomePod Mini Giveaway | How to Fix Bluetooth Pairing Problems | How to Block Spam Calls | Snapchat Symbol Meaning

We may earn commissions when you buy from links on our site. Why you can trust us.

author photo

$35 Google Chromecast Makes 'Dumb' TVs Smart

by Fox Van Allen on July 24, 2013

ChromecastSmart televisions – that is, Internet-connect TVs capable of streaming Hulu, Netflix and more – are very hot products right now. Their prices have come down significantly, but even $500 is a lot to spend on a television when you may have just spent that much for a TV a year or two before.

Thankfully, though, being able to watch and stream video on a “dumb” TV is about to get a lot cheaper. Today, Google announced the Chromecast, the company's answer to the AirPlay mirroring at the stunningly low price point of $35.

Chromecast isn’t quite like Apple TV or even the $99 Google TV device if you’re familiar. Instead, it’s a much simpler tool to mirror what you’re doing on your tablet, smartphone or computer on your television, provided you’re using the Chrome browser (or other Chromecast-compatible app like Netflix) to do it.

Oddly enough, the most attractive feature of the Chromecast is its status as a computer. That designation means a lot in terms of video streaming. Chromecast represents a way to watch a Hulu show on your TV without having to pay for Hulu Plus. You can also stream a show that appears only on the CBS, NBC, or ABC website by watching it through a Chrome browser and streaming it to a television using the device. It’s a smart, inexpensive way to work around frustrating DRM rules.

Chromecast setupBefore you go shopping, though, take note: The Chromecast is a powered HDMI device. As such, your TV will need an HDMI input and a powered USB port or access to a power outlet to take advantage. My 3-year-old Sony LCD TV has such an input, but many televisions of the same age or older won’t. You’ll want to take a quick peek on the back of your existing TV before you place an order just to be sure.

The Google Chromecast device will ship by August 7 and is currently available for pre-order. The device retails for $35 and comes with a free 3-month Netflix membership.


Topics

Music and Video, News, TVs & Video Players, Music & Video Services, Mobile Apps, Blog, Entertainment


Discussion loading

gravatar

From Carolyn Timmerman on July 25, 2013 :: 2:40 pm


Ooohhh, this sounds wonderful!  Actually, the price grabbed me!  But…will it work with my iPad?  $35 is wayyyy better than $99!

Reply

Home | About | Meet the Team | Contact Us
Media Kit | Newsletter Sponsorships | Licensing & Permissions
Accessibility Statement
Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookie Policy

Techlicious participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which provide a small commission from some, but not all, of the "click-thru to buy" links contained in our articles. These click-thru links are determined after the article has been written, based on price and product availability — the commissions do not impact our choice of recommended product, nor the price you pay. When you use these links, you help support our ongoing editorial mission to provide you with the best product recommendations.

© Techlicious LLC.