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Google Chromecast review (2015): Not much new, but still worth $35
The original Chromecast proved that big surprises can come in small packages. Even though it was just a $35 HDMI dongle the size of a pack of gum, it had the power to transform any TV into a smart one, as long as you had a smartphone, tablet or computer nearby. Sure it wasn't as full-featured as other media streamers, but for the price, it was a bargain. Fast-forward to 2015, and there's a brand-new Chromecast in town with a new look and a promise of faster speeds, all at the same price. No, it's not that much better than the original, but it still delivers great bang for your buck.
Google's Chromecast 2.0 is faster, more colorful and still just $35
Google has just announced its next-gen Chromecast streaming stick, and just like earlier reports said, it's taken on a circular form and has donned more colorful shells. The company says its antenna system allows it to stream higher-resolution videos significantly faster, with less buffering. It even comes with a feature called "Fast Play" that gives it the ability to establish a connection with your TV more quickly than the original version can. Fast Play works by preloading content -- it can, for instance, start downloading a series episode -- the moment you fire up the media player's app. In addition, Mountain View has redesigned the Chromecast app (for both Android and iOS) to list Cast-enabled applications installed on your device, to find content within them and to display its latest offers and updates.
