New Delhi: Google is reportedly developing a new Google TV Streamer with upgraded hardware, hands-free voice controls and smarter features designed to improve the television viewing experience. While the company has not officially announced the device, early reports suggest that the upcoming streaming box could bring improvements to performance, storage and smart home integration.
The new device is expected to build on the existing Google TV Streamer, with features that could allow users to control their televisions and connected smart home devices without having to pick up the remote. A faster processor, built-in microphones and presence-sensing technology are among the reported upgrades.
Google has yet to confirm the product’s launch date, specifications or price. However, the reported developments suggest that the company is preparing a more capable streaming device for users looking for a smarter entertainment experience.
Google TV Streamer may offer hands-free voice controls
One of the most notable reported additions is a built-in microphone system. The feature could allow users to interact with Google Assistant or Google’s voice-control features without speaking directly into the remote.
Users may be able to say “Hey Google” from across the room to search for films, control playback or operate compatible smart home devices, including smart lights.
The addition could make everyday interactions more convenient, particularly for users who regularly use voice commands to control connected devices. At present, the reported hands-free feature remains unconfirmed by Google.
If introduced, built-in microphones would represent a change in how users interact with the streaming device, shifting some controls away from the remote and towards voice-based commands.
Presence sensing could make the TV experience smarter
The upcoming Google TV Streamer is also reportedly being developed with a feature called Presence Sensing.
This technology could detect when someone enters a room and automatically wake the television to display a Google Photos screensaver or useful information such as the current time and weather.
The feature would make the television more responsive to activity in the room, rather than requiring users to switch it on manually every time they want to view information.
The reported functionality could also strengthen the role of Google TV as part of a connected home environment. However, Google has not confirmed how the feature would work or whether users would be able to customise its behaviour.
Faster processor and more storage expected
Performance and storage are other areas where Google may introduce upgrades. The existing Google TV Streamer offers 32GB of internal storage, while the next version is expected to provide additional space for applications and games.
More storage could be useful for users who install multiple streaming services and other compatible applications. A faster processor could also help improve navigation and reduce delays when moving through menus.
The upgrades would address two common concerns with streaming devices: limited space for applications and sluggish performance.
However, the exact processor, storage capacity and performance improvements of the upcoming model have not yet been confirmed.
Design may remain familiar, with an updated remote
The next Google TV Streamer is expected to retain a design similar to the current pill-shaped device, although reports suggest that the body could be slightly narrower.
The remote control may also receive changes. According to the report, the updated remote could include two new shortcut buttons alongside the existing Netflix and YouTube buttons.
The dedicated Find My Remote button, located on the back of the streaming device, is also expected to return. This feature helps users locate a misplaced remote, making it a practical addition for everyday use.
These reported changes suggest that Google may focus on refining the existing design rather than introducing a completely different form factor.
As with the other expected features, the design and remote-control details remain unconfirmed until Google makes an official announcement.
Google TV Streamer price and launch date remain unknown
Google has not announced an official launch date or price for the upcoming streaming device. The report also notes that there is currently no leaked price available for the new model.
However, Google recently increased the price of the existing Google TV Streamer in the United States from $99.99 to $149.99, a rise of 50 per cent.
The price revision has prompted speculation that the next model could carry a premium price tag, particularly if it includes upgraded hardware and additional smart features.
This remains an expectation rather than a confirmed price indication. Google has not provided details about the pricing of the next-generation device or its availability in India.
Consumers considering a streaming device may therefore want to wait for official information if they are interested in the reported upgrades.
Apple could also introduce a new streaming device
Google is not the only company reportedly working on an updated streaming device. Apple is also said to be developing a new Apple TV with built-in microphones for hands-free Siri commands.
The reported Apple device could also feature a redesigned remote with built-in speakers, making it easier to locate when misplaced.
The potential developments indicate that hands-free controls and more convenient remote functionality could become important features in the next generation of streaming devices.
However, details about Apple’s reported product also remain unconfirmed.
What to expect from the next Google TV Streamer
The upcoming Google TV Streamer could offer several improvements over the existing model, including hands-free voice control, presence sensing, a faster processor, more storage and an updated remote.
These features could make the device more convenient for entertainment and smart home use. The reported ability to wake the television when someone enters a room, for example, could give users quicker access to screensavers and useful information.
For now, buyers should treat these details as reported expectations rather than confirmed specifications. Google has not officially revealed the device, its final feature set, its price or its launch timeline.
The next Google TV Streamer could be a worthwhile upgrade for users seeking a more capable streaming box, but its value will ultimately depend on the features Google confirms and the price at which it launches.