Google introduces Gemini AI-backed Google TV Streamer replacing Chromecast

Alphabet’s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google said it is using Gemini to boost its new smart home devices — the fourth generation Nest Learning Thermostat and its latest streaming device Google TV Streamer.

Google TV Streamer will replace Chromecast, bringing its best features to the company’s next-generation 4K TV streaming device — but as a faster, more premium version, according to the company.

The tech giant said in a separate post on Tuesday that it was ending production of Chromecast, which will now only be available while supplies last. In its 11 years of existence, over 100 million units of the device were sold.

Google TV Streamer is a more premium device built for the new era of entertainment and smart home needs, the company added.

The device is priced at $99.99.

Google TV Streamer would compete with Apple’s (AAPL) Apple TV 4K and Amazon’s (AMZN) Fire TV.

The U.S. tech giant noted that complete with the best of Google TV, Google TV Streamer doubles as a smart home hub for Google Home and Matter devices.

The device, which features a sleek design, uses Google AI and user’s preferences to curate content suggestions across all of the user’s subscriptions, organized in one place. It also allows to build watchlists with recommendations for every member of the house.

The Gemini AI on Google TV enables users to get summaries, reviews and season-by-season breakdowns of content.

User’s can use voice to pull up images from Google Photos or create a screensaver art with generative AI.

Google also introduced its fourth-generation Nest Thermostat, which has a domed display, smoother curves, invisible bezels and a lighter touch. The new design also allows users to use fingertips to rotate the thermostat, whereas the previous generation required the whole hand to turn the dial.

The device also comes with a redesigned Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) in the box.

It uses AI to automatically make micro-adjustments based on user’s patterns, while saving energy and money. The AI can quickly and accurately create personalized, energy-saving temperature schedules, according to the company.

The Nest Learning Thermostat can be pre-ordered starting Aug. 6 at the Google Store and select retailers for $279.99 in the U.S. and $379.99 in Canada, with availability on Aug. 20.

Every thermostat comes with the Nest Temperature Sensor, and additional sensors can be bought for US$39.99 or US$99.99 for a 3-pack.

The device will be available in three metal finishes: Polished Silver, Polished Obsidian and Polished Gold.