A small WiFi-enabled dongle device that connects to a television via a HDMI port to wirelessly stream video and music content to the TV screen from smartphone (both Android and Apple iOS), tablet, laptop or desktop computer devices. Google Chromecast made its debut in late July, 2013, and retails for $35, which is considerably less expensive than the $99 Apple TV that Chromecast competes against.
Initial reviews of Google Chromecast have been mixed, with many praising the low cost ($35) and the high video and audio quality while at the same time criticizing the limited functionality the initial release of Chromecast provides, particularly in terms of compatible streaming services and mobile apps.
Google Chromecast does currently support NetFlix, Google Play, YouTube and Pandora, and it also offers the ability to stream Web pages to the TV. Chromecast is also expected to add support for additional services in the near future.
