An update to the Google Music app broke compatibility with the ill-fated Nexus Q — but it appears Google may have a new media streamer waiting in the wings to replace it. A recent FCC filing provides some sparse details on a mysterious product referenced as the "H840 Device." Google is mentioned as the product's manufacturer, and it's described as a "fixed base station" with 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi. What's most intriguing, however, is the product's purpose: one of the documents states plainly that "The device functions as a media player." Douglas Adams fans are also likely to get a kick out of the device's model number, as well. It's listed as the H2G2-42, no doubt a sly wink towards The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.

The Nexus Q had initially appeared to be Google's response to devices like Roku and the Apple TV, but after a splashy introduction the company withdrew the product from the market entirely, sending out free versions to those that had placed pre-orders but otherwise shelving it. Google's clearly been rethinking its media strategy — it introduced Google Play Music All Access this week, and while Google TV didn't warrant a center-stage mention Mountain View is working there to bring the platform back into the Android fold. Addressing the media streamer market is a natural fit — particularly when devices like the Ouya are already bringing Android to television screens. While we don't know what to expect from this new product just yet, we may not have to wait too long to find out. Google has asked the FCC to withhold photos of the device and its instruction manual from the public for 45 days after it receives certification, but after that point it should fair game.

Update: It appears that the true successor to the Nexus Q is the new Google Chromecast.