Google’s updated Chromecast with Bluetooth also has better 5GHz Wi-Fi

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The Chromecast has undoubtedly been Google’s biggest hardware success. For $35-70 you get a cute little dongle that plugs into the back of your TV and turns it into a Smart TV. The only remote you need is a smartphone. It’s a simple concept executed very well, and now almost every home has one. A few months ago we wrote about the upcoming Chromecast with Bluetooth, and now we know more details.

Back in May, we spotted a request that Google filed with the FCC to certify a new version of the 2nd-gen Chromecast. It has the same basic hardware as the original, but with an added Bluetooth chip. The existing 2nd-gen Chromecast supports Bluetooth 2.4GHz Low Energy, but this would be for standard Bluetooth 2.4GHz. It’s possible that this would be for connecting peripherals like keyboards and gaming controllers.

The new information is also from an FCC filing. Google appears to be adding tweaking the antenna to add stronger Wi-Fi for 5GHz connections. The Chromecast already supports 5GHz Wi-Fi, but this would increase the antenna gain and hopefully make for stronger connections. If you find your device disconnecting from Wi-Fi frequently, this could be a big improvement.

Google’s big hardware event is tentatively scheduled for October 4th. We may see this upgraded streaming dongle along with the Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3, and Pixel Watch. We’re in for an exciting Fall.