The original Google Chromecast was introduced in 2013 and was an inexpensive and convenient way to stream content to your TV. The Chromecast 2 followed in 2015 and enjoyed a rather long shelf life. Google has now introduced the third generation Chromecast, which brings with it incremental updates in the form of a slightly refreshed design and 15 percent faster performance.

The Google Chromecast 3 is priced at Rs. 3,499 and is available via Flipkart[1] in India. The petite retail box contains the Chromecast itself, a 5W power adapter, a long Micro-USB cable, and the usual documentation.

Just like the Chromecast 2, this new device sports a hockey-puck-like design with an HDMI cable sticking out from one end. It has a matte finish, which looks sleek, and attracts less dust and scratches than its glossy predecessor. There are two colour variants on offer internationally, Chalk White and Charcoal Black, but only the latter is available in India as of now.

The HDMI plug no longer magnetically attaches to the back of the device, which is a design regression in our opinion, as the Chromecast now dangles helplessly from whatever it's plugged into. There's a button right next to the Micro-USB port that can be used to reset the device.

Chromecast3 Inline2 Google Chromecast 3The Chromecast 3 still uses the old Micro-USB port

 

Setting up the Chromecast 3 is as simple as connecting the device to your television, downloading the Google Home app from the Play Store[2] or App Store[3], and following the on-screen instructions.

The Google Chromecast is still completely dependent on other devices, and lacks a dedicated user interface. There's no UI or remote, which can be quite inconvenient at times, for example when...

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