Google’s latest streaming device has already reached some end-users before its international availability. Quite a few social media users unboxed the new and powerful Google TV streamer and confirmed the contents of its retail box.
Google TV Streamer is already in stores around the world
Google announced its latest Android TV set-top-box called the Google TV Streamer, last month. The power-packed streaming device replaces the old Google Chromecast products.
The pill-shaped Google TV Streamer is similar to an Android TV box, unlike the Chromecast products, which were dongles. The new form factor packs a more powerful processor and offers Google AI integration, smart home functionalities, and the latest Google TV experience.
2024 @madebygoogle google tv streamer available at @JBHiFi pic.twitter.com/OcfTeTsnWm
— @AKOz (@AKOz100) September 20, 2024
Google was to release the Android 14 set-top-box internationally on September 24. However, quite a few early adopters managed to buy the Google TV Streamer early, unboxed it, and posted photos online.
Multiple Reddit posts indicate the Google TV Streamer has reached stores in the UK, Germany, and Canada. Needless to say, it is an established practice to ship products early. This ensures they are available to customers on the launch day.
Google ships the Android 14 set-top-box without an HDMI cable
As the images reveal, Google has opted for simple yet clever packaging for the Google TV Streamer. The search giant has packed a power adapter, a voice remote, and a long USB-C to USB-A cable (1.8 M) along with the streaming device. According to a user, the streaming device has around 26GB of storage space free from the 32GB claimed capacity.
Google has placed each of the four pieces in a single tray, with two outer ones bending (at a right angle) to fit into the box, reported 9to5Google. According to Google’s plastic-free packaging design guide, this packaging, “allows the entire insert (or tray) to be removed as a unit with little to no risk of products falling out prematurely.”
It is interesting to note that despite asking about $100 for the new Android 14 set-top-box, Google hasn’t bundled an HDMI cable. This means users would have to repurpose an old one or buy a new HDMI cable.
