Google has developed a new version of its Chromecast 4K streamer and according to internal sources cited by Google 9to5Googlewill hit the market very soon.

It’s been almost four years since the internet giant launched this version for the Google TV platform. Although this type of device does not require a high level of hardware, and Google itself launched a more affordable HD version a few years ago, it seems that the time has come to renew the model with 4K resolution.

for that Google would update the hardware engine to Amlogic S905X5 SoC, faster and more efficient. Announced last September, it’s two generations newer than the Amlogic S905X3 that powers the current model. It features a new CPU with Cortex-A510 Armv9 cores and an integrated Mali-G310 V5 GPU.

In addition to better performance, it will also offer a higher energy efficiency derived from its advanced 6-nanometer manufacturing process. Other news comes from the decoding section, as the streamer will be compatible with the H.266 codec.

The new Chromecast 4K will premiere AND new remote control redesigned into a pill shape, with large round buttons on both sides and a D-Pad on top. The current volume rocker on the right edge has been moved to the front of the remote, while a new “magic” star button would give users a personalized shortcut. Of course it would work with voice commands.

What is certain is that the Chromecast 4K will update the Google TV platform to the latest version of the Android 14 operating system. According to information, Google will keep the reference price of the original, 49 dollars and easy connection to the TV via the HDMI port. Although it may not seem like it given the massive deployment of smart TV features on big screens, these little streamers are still very useful for a good number of consumers.

It will probably be presented at the Google I/O developer conference, where we expect to see other devices like the Pixel Tablet 2. It will compete with the other main model in the sector, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K.