If Google officially announces the rumored Chromecast Ultra, it will be the cheapest 4K streaming device available. We finally have our first look at the stick (a leak via VentureBeat) and it looks very similar to the Chromecast 2, but with a small change in logo design. Google has traded the Chrome logo for a simple ‘G.’ Expect official confirmation on the Chromecast Ultra at Google’s Oct. 4 event.
The Roku Ultra, Roku Premiere and Amazon Fire TV all stream in 4K, but cost over $100. Android Police expect the 4K Chromecast to cost around $69. It’s unclear if the Chromecast Ultra will have HDR support like the Roku Ultra. Amazon Fire TV can’t handle HDR viewing and the fourth generation Apple TV doesn’t yet support 4K at all. The Chromecast 2, which supports 1080 HD viewing, will still be available at $35 for those who can’t afford or have no need to upgrade to a 4K TV.
The Chromecast has always been known as the cheapest of streaming devices. Since the first iteration, it’s always cost less than popular sticks and streaming set-top boxes like Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV. With 4K TV’s on their way to becoming the standard, it’s no coincidence Google is stepping into the premium streaming market while maintaining the lower-than-average price point.
The Chromecast Ultra would also be the smallest 4K streaming stick out there. Both Roku 4 and Amazon Fire TV come in set-top box form, while the Chromecast is considerably smaller and simply plugs into the back of your television. The downside is that there’s no remote. Everything is controlled with the Chromecast app, however this does allow for unique features like ‘cast,’ ‘fast play,’ and ‘guest mode.’ Read more about what else the Chromecast has to offer here.
