Amidst the Pixel, Daydream and Google Home announcements, Google has also quietly sneaked in two new devices in the form of the Google WiFi router and the Chromecast Ultra.
First off, the Google WiFi Router. Unlike traditional WiFi routers that rely on a single router to handle wireless connectivity across the house, Google’s WiFi Router is a multi-point router. In essence, the Google WiFi router is meant to work with multiple units, allowing for better coverage across the house. As for the WiFi itself, the Google WiFi supports AC1200 wireless speeds and simultaneous 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. Support for Bluetooth Smart and beamforming technology is also present within the router as well. Google has mentioned that the router will be able to handle channel management and traffic routing automatically, while users will be able to manage the device directly via a smartphone app.
Google WiFi will be sold as either a single unit for USD129, or as a multipack that consists of three routers for USD299. The device willl be available in the States in December.
The other device on the list is the Chromecast Ultra. As the leaks previously revealed, the Chromecast Ultra will be able to stream 4K content as well as HDR content in both HDR10 and Dolby Vision formats. Google has also made mention that the Chromecast Ultra is the fastest Chromecast the company has made thus far, being able to load videos 1.8 times faster than the regular Chromecast thanks to its improved Wi-Fi connectivity. In what appears to be a first for the Chromecast as a whole, Google will also be implementing an ethernet port for the Chromecast Ultra. Located on the power adapter, this would allow users to stream content smoothly in the event that their Wi-Fi connection is unstable. As for content, the Chromecast Ultra will be able to stream 4K content from YouTube, Netflix and Vudu at launch, with 4k support for Google Play Movies arriving sometime in November.
The Chromecast Ultra will be available for purchase in the States for USD69 in November. Google has also stated that the device will be available in 16 other countries around the world.
