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After almost six years since the first announcements, Google has finally released a feature that many users of its ecosystem have been waiting for. The new Google Home Speakers can be paired wirelessly with the Google TV Streamer and used as a home audio system. Rather than a Bluetooth connection, it uses Wi‑Fi, which delivers higher sound quality and lower latency. The feature lets you create a simple two‑speaker home cinema setup. Google says the solution will be rolled out to additional Google TV devices in the future.
Google Home Speaker will replace TV speakers
The Google Home Speaker costs $100 and has a new feature that lets it work with the Google TV Streamer. Users can wirelessly connect up to two speakers and use them as the primary audio source for the TV. This solution differs significantly from previous pairing via Bluetooth. By using Wi-Fi it is possible to stream audio at higher quality. Google also emphasises support for stereo and spatial sound with Dolby Atmos. The company notes that Bluetooth often limits quality, may only operate in mono and introduces latency. To use the new feature, two Google Home Speakers and a Google TV Streamer with the latest firmware UTTK.260317.003 are required. The update also adds support for the Thread 1.4 standard. Configuration can be done from the Google TV settings or the Google Home app. This is the first such extensive integration of Google's audio devices with a TV.
Google announces more compatible devices
Currently the feature works only with the Google TV Streamer, but the manufacturer suggests it will not be the only supported device. Google's documentation mentions compatibility with other future devices that support Google TV. The company has not yet revealed specific models or a timeline for their updates. The new feature is similar to the solution known from the Apple TV 4K and HomePod speakers, although it also limits the user to two paired speakers at any one time. Google hopes wireless audio will become an important part of its developing smart home ecosystem. It is also possible that a larger, more powerful Google Home Speaker aimed at more demanding use cases could be launched in the future.
Google has finally implemented the long-promised feature of wirelessly pairing speakers with Google TV. By using Wi-Fi, users get better sound quality, support for stereo and Dolby Atmos, and a more convenient setup than with Bluetooth.
source: flatpanelshd
