Contrary to expectations that the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) would be announced at Google's October event, the streaming device is now officially available for purchase. Google's major rivals in the streaming devices market are Amazon and Roku, and both brands have multiple devices with different prices. With the new streaming stick, Google can compete with their entry-level offerings, such as the Fire TV Stick Lite and the Roku Express.

Google's October 6 event is still on track, and it will bring the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro smartphones. Google has also confirmed that it will launch the Pixel Watch that day. In addition, it will also unveil a new Wi-Fi mesh router that will be sold under its Nest smart home line.

The Chromecast with Google TV (HD) was announced today without fanfare, save for a tweet by the Made by Google Twitter account and a blog post. The new streaming device is Google's cheapest device to carry the Chromecast name with a $29.99 price tag. This makes it even more reasonable than the original Chromecast launched in 2013, which sold for $35. The new device has an identical design, down to the remote, to the Chromecast with Google TV (4K). However, it is only available in one color option — Snow.

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As the name says, the Chromecast with Google TV runs Google TV but with Android TV 12 under the hood. It is also capable of streaming in 1080p HDR. In addition, a listing on the Android TV Guide says that it has 1.5GB of RAM, 8GB of storage, and an Amlogic S805X2, which supports the AV1 codec. While these specs are inferior to those of the 4K version, Google says it has made software optimizations to ensure that users get "a smooth and snappy experience" regardless of what TV they are watching on.

A 1080p streaming device may not be a great option for those who own a TV that supports 4K or higher, but for those who have a 1080p or HD (dumb) TV, this is an inexpensive solution for them. It offers all the benefits of Google TV and comes with a voice remote with a Google Assistant button, and with Kids Profile, this can also work as a streaming device for the TV in the children's bedroom or play area.

The Chromecast with Google TV is available in 19 countries, including the U.S., where users can purchase it on the Google Store for $29.99, and in Canada, where it costs CA$39.99. It is also available in India via Flipkart for ₹4,499, but an ongoing promo brings the price down to ₹4,199. In addition, for a limited time, those who pick up the streamer will get six months of Peacock Premium. After that, the service costs $4.99 per month, which sums up to $29.94 for the duration. Considering the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) is $30, they are getting the device for free.