Google TV Streamer review: smarter than your average set-top box

Google has released a new streaming device called the Google TV Streamer 4K, which is an upgrade to the Chromecast with Google TV. The device features a new processor, double the RAM, and four times the storage of the Chromecast, as well as a built-in ethernet port and support for Matter for smart home devices. The Streamer also has a Thread radio, making it a Thread border router, and can handle 4K video with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos audio. The device is designed to sit on a media console and has a new smart home panel that allows users to control smart home devices like lights and view livestreams from connected cameras using the remote. The Streamer's voice assistant is Google Assistant, which handles voice commands mostly very well, although it's not perfect. The device is not as fast as some other set-top boxes, such as the Nvidia Shield or Apple TV, but it's fast enough. The Streamer's smart home features are a major advantage, making it a capable smart home hub that can connect devices like lights, locks, and thermostats to Google Home. The device also has a new shortcut button on the remote that can be programmed to open the smart home panel, making it easy to control smart home devices. The Streamer's smart home panel is based on the Google Home app interface and offers shortcuts to turn off lights or view cameras with the press of a button. The panel is fast and intuitive, and allows users to control lights and automations quickly. The device also supports live feeds from connected cameras, and can display a picture-in-picture of a visitor at the door. The Streamer is an excellent blend of smart home and smart TV, and is a great option for those looking for a device that can handle both streaming and smart home duties. The device is available for $99.99 and is a significant upgrade to the Chromecast with Google TV. While it's not perfect, the Streamer's smart home features and voice assistant make it a great option for those looking for a device that can handle both streaming and smart home duties. The device's ability to connect devices like lights, locks, and thermostats to Google Home makes it a capable smart home hub, and its support for Matter and Thread elevates it to true smart home hub status.