A $35 dollar Google dongle that is set to be launched in Australia in 2014 could become a major competitor to Foxtel in the home entertainment market.
Called Chromecast it appears that Google is getting ready to launch the device into International markets including Australia. This week Google opened a new Chromecast section on their website for the device which could legally make Netflix content available to Australian users.
SmartHouse understands that Google has spoken to Netflix about giving Australian consumers access to the Netflix content via the Chromecast dongle.
Google describes the Chromecast dongle as the easiest way to enjoy online video and anything from the web on your TV. They say that users can plug the device into any HDTV and control it with an existing smartphone, tablet, or laptop. No remotes required. Cast your favourites from Google Play, YouTube, Netflix, and Chrome to your TV with the press of a button.
Access is via http://www.google.com/chromecast
Earlier this week SmartHouse revealed that Netflix is currently talking to movie studio’s about getting the International rights to Netflix, Scott Lorson the CEO of Fetch TV who will next week launch a stunning new tablet and smartphone app that delivers content to portable devices said that we welcomes the launch of Netflix. “If Netflix launch in Australia we will be among the first to stick our hand up to deliver their services” he said.
Shortly Google will release an SDK to developers, this will allow Australian Companies such as Quickflix to develop apps that deliver content via the Chromecast dongle.
Chrome alone
Chromecast launched in the US in July 2013 but it is only recently that they have has added a section to its Play Store for is presumed will be streaming apps designed specifically for its Chromecast HDMI-n-USB
DigiTimes said recently that Companies such as Apple, Samsung Electronics and Google have become increasingly interested in over-the-top services as a means to connect ultra-mobile devices to TVs, increase cloud computing users, and boost various cloud and software services.
Over-the-top (OTT) set-top-box (STB) refers to a device designed to access content delivered over the Internet without a multiple system operator (MSO) being involved in the control or distribution of the content.
The market for the technology in recent years has been up against smart TVs, game consoles and Blu-ray disc players, making the market for the technology very limited. In recent year’s major companies such as Apple, Samsung Electronics and Google have been increasingly interested in the technology as a means to connect ultra-mobile devices to TVs, increase cloud computing users, and boost various cloud and software services.
